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Best Maple Brown Sugar Roasted Sweet Potatoes (Easy Side Dish)

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These caramelized sweet potatoes are coated in a sticky maple-brown sugar glaze with a hint of cayenne and orange zest. They’re quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to holiday feasts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup
  • 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of ½ orange (optional)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash and peel sweet potatoes. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, cayenne (if using), vanilla extract, and orange zest (if using).
  4. Add sweet potato cubes to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Spread potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not crowd.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and flip each piece with a spatula.
  7. Return to oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes, until fork-tender and edges are dark golden brown and caramelized.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes on the pan.
  9. Garnish with fresh thyme, flaky sea salt, and chopped nuts if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Don’t skip flipping the potatoes halfway through—it ensures even caramelization. Cut potatoes into even 1-inch cubes for uniform cooking. Watch the sugar content; the glaze can burn quickly in the last few minutes. Line your pan with parchment for easy cleanup. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter or coconut oil. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheat well in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted sweet potatoes, maple brown sugar sweet potatoes, easy side dish, Thanksgiving side, caramelized sweet potatoes

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