Description

Craving a vibrant, flavorful side that’s as easy as it is delicious? Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Honey and Cinnamon, inspired by a classic recipe, combines tender sweet potatoes with a sweet-spicy glaze of honey and cinnamon for a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients

Scale

Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Honey and Cinnamon use simple ingredients for a bold result. Here’s what you’ll need for 4 servings:

4 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes: The sweet, hearty base.
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling: Promotes caramelization and crispiness.
¼ cup honey: Adds a sweet, sticky glaze.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Brings warm, spicy flavor.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for seasoning.

Why These Ingredients Matter

Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and tender when roasted, perfect for absorbing flavors.
Honey and Cinnamon: Create a sweet-spicy coating that caramelizes beautifully.
Olive Oil: Ensures even roasting and a slightly crispy exterior.
Salt and Pepper: Balance sweetness with savory depth.

Substitutions and Variations

Sweet Potatoes: Use yams or butternut squash; adjust roasting time for squash (may need 5-10 minutes more).
Olive Oil: Swap with avocado oil or melted butter for a richer flavor.
Honey: Replace with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness.
Cinnamon: Substitute with pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg (use 1 teaspoon), or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Vegan Option: Naturally vegan; use agave nectar for strict vegan diets.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Flavor Variations:
- Spicy Sweet Potatoes: Add ½ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne with the cinnamon.
- Herb-Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Toss with 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme.
- Citrus Sweet Potatoes: Add 1 tablespoon orange zest or juice with the honey.
- Nutty Sweet Potatoes: Sprinkle with ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts after roasting.
- Savory Sweet Potatoes: Omit honey and cinnamon; toss with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and ½ teaspoon garlic powder.

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Instructions

Step 1: Gather and Prep

Gather all ingredients: 4 sweet potatoes, ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup honey, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, salt, pepper, and extra olive oil for drizzling.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Peel 4 sweet potatoes and cut into 1-inch cubes.
Prepare a roasting tray or sheet pan.

Tip: Cut potatoes uniformly for even cooking; rinse and pat dry to remove excess starch.

Step 2: Toss and Arrange

Place sweet potato cubes in a single layer on the roasting tray.
Drizzle with ¼ cup olive oil and ¼ cup honey.
Sprinkle 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, a pinch of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Toss with your hands or tongs to coat evenly.

Tip: Ensure cubes are well-coated but not pooled with liquid to promote caramelization.

Step 3: Roast

Roast at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
Toss halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Tip: Check at 25 minutes; a fork should pierce easily, and edges should be lightly browned.

Step 4: Serve

Transfer sweet potatoes to a serving platter.
Drizzle with a small amount of extra-virgin olive oil (about 1-2 teaspoons) for shine and flavor.
Serve hot, about ¾ cup per serving.

Tip: Drizzle oil sparingly to enhance flavor without greasiness; serve immediately for best texture