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
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.
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