Roasted Sweet Potato Recipe With Maple Glaze | Easy Fall Side

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Roasted sweet potatoes are one of those comforting dishes that effortlessly bridge the gap between everyday simplicity and a touch of indulgence. This maple-glazed version brings out the natural caramel notes of the sweet potatoes while adding a glossy, gently sweet exterior that feels special enough for a holiday table yet practical for weeknight meals. I especially enjoy how the edges crisp up beautifully in the oven, a contrast to the tender, almost creamy interior. When I tested this recipe using a splash of almond milk in the glaze to loosen it slightly, it worked wonderfully, adding a delicate nutty undertone without overpowering the dish. Whether you serve these roasted sweet potatoes alongside roasted meats, toss them into salads, or enjoy them as a vegetarian side, their versatility and comforting flavor make them a reliable favourite.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sweet potatoes
The foundation of this dish, sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and a hearty texture that stands up well to roasting. Their earthy flavour pairs beautifully with the warm, sugary notes of the glaze.

Maple syrup
Pure maple syrup gives the glaze its signature shine and a deep, nuanced sweetness that caramelises in the oven. It adds a warmth that sugar alone cannot replicate.

Olive oil
This helps the sweet potatoes roast evenly and promotes that desirable golden exterior. It also balances the sweetness of the maple with a subtle savoury note.

Salt
A small but important ingredient. Salt enhances all the natural flavours, preventing the dish from leaning too sweet and adding depth to each bite.

Ground cinnamon
Cinnamon warms the glaze and brings out the inherent sweetness of the potatoes. It creates an aroma that feels cosy and inviting.

Black pepper
A touch of pepper cuts through the sweetness and adds gentle heat, keeping the flavours balanced and layered.

Directions

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat encourages the sweet potatoes to caramelise and develop those crisp edges that make roasted vegetables so satisfying. Peel the sweet potatoes if you prefer a smooth finish, or leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients. Slice them into even cubes or wedges to ensure uniform cooking.

Transfer the pieces to a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil, tossing until each piece is lightly coated. Sprinkle with salt, cinnamon, and black pepper. Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes across a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are in a single layer to avoid steaming. Roast them for about 25 minutes, then remove the tray and drizzle the maple syrup evenly across the potatoes. Toss gently, then return them to the oven for an additional 10–15 minutes. The maple will thicken into a glaze while the potatoes finish caramelising. Serve warm, allowing the glaze to cling enticingly to every piece.

Equipment needed :

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. From preparation to plating, expect the dish to take around 45 minutes: 10 minutes for prepping the potatoes and glaze ingredients, and 30–35 minutes for roasting.

Storage/reheating

Store any leftover roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help restore their crisp edges. They can also be reheated on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat.

Variations and Customizations

Spicy maple roasted sweet potatoes
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to introduce gentle heat that pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness.

Herb-infused glaze
Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary before roasting to bring an aromatic, savoury depth to the dish.

Citrus-maple twist
A splash of orange juice or a little orange zest brightens the glaze and adds a refreshing contrast.

Savory garlic version
Skip the cinnamon and introduce garlic powder or minced garlic for a more savoury profile.

Smoked maple potatoes
Add a touch of smoked paprika to create a subtly smoky glaze that gives the dish a more robust flavour.

FAQs

Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, yams work well, though they have a slightly drier texture and a milder sweetness.

Should I peel the sweet potatoes?

Peeling is optional. The skins soften during roasting and add nutrients and texture.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the maple glaze ingredients can be mixed a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

How do I keep the potatoes from getting soggy?

Ensure they are arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet and roasted at high heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply divide the potatoes between two baking sheets to maintain proper roasting.

Is maple syrup necessary?

Maple syrup provides the classic flavour, but honey can substitute with a slightly different taste.

Can I use butter instead of olive oil?

Yes, melted butter adds richness, though it may brown faster in the oven.

Are leftovers good for meal prep?

Absolutely; they reheat well and pair nicely with salads, grains, and proteins.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

It already is, as long as you use plant-based oil.

What dishes pair well with this recipe?

Roasted meats, fall-inspired salads, and simple grilled proteins all complement the sweetness nicely.

Conclusion

This roasted sweet potato recipe with maple glaze brings together simplicity, warmth, and irresistible flavour. Its versatility allows it to shine at festive gatherings or as a comforting weeknight side. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward preparation, it offers a reliable way to elevate a humble vegetable into something truly memorable. Whether you customise it with spices, herbs, or citrus, its balanced sweetness and tender texture make it a dish worth returning to again and again.

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