There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and savory, and nothing embodies it better than Roasted Apple Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes. This dish transforms humble sweet potatoes into a warm, flavorful side that’s perfect for fall dinners, holiday gatherings, or any night you want a comforting, wholesome meal. The sweetness of tender roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the tartness of crisp green apples, all enhanced with aromatic cinnamon and a drizzle of pure maple syrup. It’s simple, healthy, and incredibly satisfying, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
This recipe is a celebration of seasonal ingredients, making it ideal for cozy dinners at home. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted meats, adding it to a festive spread, or enjoying it as a vegetarian main, it’s versatile and easy to prepare. The warm aromas of cinnamon and maple syrup roasting in your oven will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels both comforting and festive.
Recipe Overview
Roasted Apple Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes are a quick and flavorful side dish combining diced sweet potatoes and green apples tossed in cinnamon and olive oil, roasted until tender, then finished with a touch of maple syrup. This simple recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spiced flavors, making it a must-try addition to your weeknight dinners or holiday menus.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
2 large sweet potatoes, diced into medium pieces
2 large green apples, such as Granny Smith, diced medium
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced sweet potatoes, apples, ground cinnamon, and olive oil. Toss thoroughly to ensure that every piece is coated in the cinnamon and oil, giving it an even layer of flavor. Spread the mixture in a single layer on a large baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, so everything roasts evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–35 minutes, or until both the apples and sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes and softens the apples while allowing the cinnamon aroma to fill the kitchen. Once done, remove from the oven and drizzle maple syrup over the roasted mixture while it’s still hot, adding a luscious, sticky sweetness that complements the spiced apples and potatoes. Serve immediately for a comforting and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses.
Cooking Tips & Variations
For the best results, choose firm, sweet sweet potatoes and tart, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Make sure to cut the potatoes and apples into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. For an extra touch, sprinkle a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts on top during the last 5–10 minutes of roasting for added crunch.
You can also experiment with spices—try adding a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or a dash of ginger for a warming variation. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the maple syrup slightly or skip it altogether. Roasting with coconut oil instead of olive oil adds a subtle tropical flavor, while using brown sugar can give a richer caramelized finish.
For a more savory twist, toss in fresh rosemary or thyme before roasting. The combination of herbs with cinnamon can create a complex and aromatic dish that’s perfect alongside roasted chicken or pork. This recipe is versatile enough to adapt to your personal taste, dietary needs, and seasonal availability of ingredients.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through. This side dish can also be served cold or at room temperature as part of a salad or grain bowl.
Serve alongside roasted meats, poultry, or fish for a classic autumn meal. It also pairs wonderfully with grain-based dishes like quinoa, farro, or wild rice for a vegetarian-friendly option. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra richness and texture.
Roasted Apple Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes are a simple yet elegant side dish that captures the essence of fall in every bite. The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, the tart bite of green apples, and the warm aroma of cinnamon come together to create a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish. Drizzled with maple syrup, this recipe is easy to make, versatile, and perfect for both weeknight meals and holiday feasts. Its combination of flavors and textures will make it a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, roast the sweet potatoes and apples in advance, then reheat in the oven before serving.
2. Can I use different apples?
Absolutely. Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Fuji apples work well, though tart varieties balance the sweetness best.
3. Can I make it vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan if using plant-based maple syrup.
4. Can I add nuts?
Yes, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top during the last 5–10 minutes of roasting for added texture and flavor.
5. How long does it store?
Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat before serving.
Roasted Apple Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes combine tender sweet potatoes and crisp apples with cinnamon and maple syrup for a warm, easy, and flavorful side dish.
