Imagine a side dish so delectable that it steals the spotlight from the main course - that's exactly what these Slow Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Maple Butter Pecans will do! Combining the natural sweetness of caramelized sweet potatoes with the rich, nutty crunch of maple-glazed pecans, this recipe transforms an ordinary vegetable into a culinary masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds. Whether you're looking to impress at a holiday gathering or simply elevate your weeknight dinner, these sweet potatoes are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup pecans
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even roasting. Pat the cubed sweet potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel to help them crisp up during roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and cinnamon. Ensure each cube is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Spread the seasoned sweet potato cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow proper caramelization and crispy edges.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, turning the cubes halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The sweet potatoes should be golden and tender when pierced with a fork.
- While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the maple butter pecans. In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add pecans and toast for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour maple syrup over the toasted pecans and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the syrup caramelizes and coats the pecans. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Once sweet potatoes are done, transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle the maple butter pecans over the top, ensuring an even distribution.
- Serve immediately while warm, garnishing with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. The sweet potatoes should be crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.
Tips
- Moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Always pat your sweet potato cubes dry before roasting to ensure those gorgeous golden edges.
- Use a large baking sheet and avoid overcrowding. Give each sweet potato cube some breathing room to caramelize beautifully.
- Don't skip turning the sweet potatoes halfway through cooking - this ensures even browning and prevents burning.
- Toast your pecans before adding maple syrup to enhance their natural nutty flavor and create a more complex taste profile.
- For extra flavor, experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the seasoning mix for a subtle kick.
- If you want extra crispy edges, try using a convection setting on your oven or placing the baking sheet on a lower rack.
- Serve immediately after adding the maple butter pecans to maintain their crunchy texture and warm, gooey coating.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
