Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon Maple Glaze

When it comes to cozy, heartwarming holiday side dishes, few things capture the essence of Christmas quite like Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon Maple Glaze. They’re rich in natural sweetness, kissed with warm spices, and coated in a luxurious glaze that’s both comforting and festive.

These roasted sweet potatoes strike the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. The roasting process transforms their earthy sweetness into a deep caramelized flavor, while the maple-cinnamon glaze adds a holiday magic that tastes like a warm hug on a cold winter evening.

Whether you’re hosting Christmas dinner, a festive brunch, or just adding a bit of sparkle to a weeknight meal, this dish brings vibrant color, incredible flavor, and wholesome comfort to your table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Naturally sweet and wholesome: Sweet potatoes need minimal sugar to shine.

• Perfectly caramelized: Roasted until golden and crisp on the edges, tender inside.

• Warm and cozy flavor: Cinnamon and maple syrup infuse each bite with holiday cheer.

• Simple ingredients, big results: Everyday pantry staples turn into something elegant.

• Vegan, gluten-free, and family-friendly: A side dish everyone can enjoy.

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Ingredients

You only need a few ingredients to make this dish, yet the results are extraordinary.

For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth)

For the Maple Glaze

• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but enhances flavor)

• 1 teaspoon fresh orange juice or zest (optional for brightness)

Garnish (Optional but Recommended)

• Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs

• A sprinkle of sea salt flakes

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Equipment Needed

• Large sheet pan

• Mixing bowl

• Spatula or wooden spoon

• Measuring spoons and cups

• Small saucepan (for glaze)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. High heat ensures that the sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully instead of steaming.

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Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into even 1-inch cubes. Try to keep them similar in size so they roast evenly.

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. If you’re feeling festive, add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.

Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd them.

Tip: For crispier edges, use two baking sheets if needed — space is key!

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Step 3: Roast Until Caramelized

Roast the sweet potatoes for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they’re fork-tender inside and golden brown on the edges.

The natural sugars will caramelize, creating a beautiful glossy finish even before the glaze is added.

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Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Maple Glaze

While the potatoes roast, prepare your glaze. In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.

Heat just until warm and combined — don’t let it boil. The aroma alone will make your kitchen smell like the holidays.

If you want a hint of brightness, add orange juice or zest to lift the sweetness.

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Step 5: Glaze and Roast Again

After 30 minutes of roasting, remove the sheet pan from the oven and drizzle the glaze over the roasted sweet potatoes. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly, then return to the oven for another 8–10 minutes.

This final step allows the glaze to thicken and cling to the potatoes, giving them a beautiful, caramelized coating that glows on the plate.

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Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Transfer the roasted sweet potatoes to a serving platter. Garnish with a few fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs and a sprinkle of sea salt flakes for a gourmet touch.

Serve immediately while warm. The glaze will be glossy, fragrant, and just sticky enough to make every bite feel indulgent.

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Flavor Profile

Every bite of these Cinnamon Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes is a little celebration of holiday warmth and simplicity.

• Sweetness: The natural sugar from sweet potatoes enhanced by maple syrup.

• Spice: Cinnamon adds cozy depth, while nutmeg gives subtle warmth.

• Caramelization: A crisp, golden surface that gives way to a buttery interior.

• Balance: A hint of salt and herbs rounds out the sweetness perfectly.

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Recipe Tips for Success

• Use real maple syrup: Avoid pancake syrup — pure maple syrup gives a rich, complex flavor.

• Roast, don’t steam: High heat creates caramelized edges and intensifies sweetness.

• Add the glaze at the end: This prevents burning and gives a glossy finish.

• Try different herbs: Sage, rosemary, or thyme all add beautiful contrast to the sweetness.

• Finish with sea salt: A tiny sprinkle of flaky salt enhances flavor and texture.

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Make-Ahead Option

Preparing for a big holiday dinner? This recipe can easily be made ahead of time.

• Up to 1 day before: Roast the sweet potatoes as directed (without glaze). Store them in the fridge.

• When ready to serve: Reheat at 400°F for 10 minutes, then add the warm glaze and finish roasting for another 5 minutes.

They’ll taste just as fresh and caramelized as when first made!

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Storage and Reheating

To store:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat:
Warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Avoid microwaving if possible — it softens the caramelized edges.

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Variations

• Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped candied pecans or toasted walnuts before serving.

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the glaze.

• Go citrusy: Use orange zest or juice in the glaze for a bright, tangy finish.

• Turn it into a salad: Toss leftovers with spinach, feta, and cranberries for a next-day meal.

• Add apples: Mix in diced apples before roasting for a fall-inspired twist.

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Serving Ideas

These sweet potatoes are versatile and complement nearly every Christmas or winter main dish.

• Pair with:

  • Herb-roasted chicken or turkey

  • Creamy mashed potatoes and gravy

  • Green bean almondine or creamed spinach

  • Holiday ham alternatives (plant-based roast or glazed tofu)

  • Warm dinner rolls or biscuits

For a festive touch, serve alongside roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or cornbread dressing for a full, colorful spread.

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Health Benefits

Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-rich star of the holiday table. This dish doesn’t just look and taste amazing — it’s also packed with goodness:

• Rich in fiber and antioxidants to support digestion and immunity.

• High in vitamin A for healthy skin and vision.

• Contains potassium and magnesium to promote balance and relaxation.

• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free (when made with olive oil).

So while it feels indulgent, it’s actually a dish you can feel great about serving.

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Troubleshooting

Why are my sweet potatoes soggy?
Overcrowding the pan causes steaming. Use a large baking sheet or roast in batches.

Why did the glaze burn?
Add the glaze only in the final minutes of roasting to prevent scorching.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes! Honey gives a slightly floral sweetness and thicker glaze texture.

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
Not necessarily. If you prefer more texture, leave the skin on — just wash thoroughly.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Values may vary slightly based on ingredients used.)

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FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply use olive oil or coconut oil instead of butter.

What’s the best type of sweet potato to use?
Orange-fleshed varieties like Beauregard or Jewel are ideal for roasting — they’re naturally sweet and caramelize beautifully.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely. Use two sheet pans and rotate them halfway through for even cooking.

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?
Fresh works best, but thawed frozen cubes can be used — just dry them well before roasting.

Can I make it less sweet?
Skip the maple syrup drizzle or use half the amount for a more savory version.

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Why This Recipe Belongs on Your Holiday Table

Roasted sweet potatoes with cinnamon and maple are the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with holiday magic. The scent alone feels like Christmas — warm, buttery, and spiced just right.

They’re simple enough for weeknight dinners yet beautiful enough for the grandest of holiday feasts. The vibrant orange color adds a joyful pop to your table, and the balance of sweet and savory pleases everyone from kids to adults.

This recipe is proof that the best holiday sides don’t have to be complicated. With just a few pantry staples and a little love, you’ll create a dish that tastes like home, celebration, and comfort all in one bite.

So go ahead — preheat that oven, grab your favorite baking sheet, and let the scent of cinnamon maple roasted sweet potatoes wrap your home in holiday warmth.