Prepare to transform your ordinary side dish into a mouthwatering culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! These Gluten-Free Maple Sweet Potatoes are not just a recipe; they're a flavor explosion that combines the natural sweetness of maple syrup with the rich, creamy texture of perfectly roasted sweet potatoes. Whether you're looking for a show-stopping holiday side dish or a delightful weeknight accompaniment, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure consistent cooking and texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes, olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Toss thoroughly to ensure all potato pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Spread the seasoned sweet potato cubes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Ensure the pieces are not overcrowded to allow proper caramelization and roasting.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring or flipping the sweet potatoes halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
- Check the sweet potatoes for doneness by piercing with a fork. They should be tender and have golden-brown edges when fully cooked.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the maple glaze to set slightly.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional cinnamon if desired. Serve hot as a side dish.
Tips
- Cut Consistency is Key: Ensure all sweet potato cubes are roughly the same size (1-inch) to guarantee even cooking and perfect caramelization.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Use a large baking sheet and spread the cubes in a single layer. Overcrowding will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them, preventing that desirable golden-brown exterior.
- Maple Syrup Hack: For an extra glossy finish, brush an additional thin layer of maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- Customize Your Spice: While cinnamon is classic, experiment with other warm spices like nutmeg or a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These sweet potatoes can be prepped earlier in the day and roasted just before serving, making them perfect for busy cooks and dinner parties.
- Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and quickly reheated in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
