why make this recipe
This dish is warm, sweet, and a little crunchy. It is easy to make and fits many meals. The maple and walnuts give a nice crunchy sweet top. The cinnamon and thyme add warm flavor. If you like baked sweet potato dishes like best sweet potato casserole, you will enjoy this one.
introduction
Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are simple and tasty. You roast sweet potato rounds in butter and cinnamon, then add a maple-walnut topping that caramelizes in the oven. The result is soft inside and slightly crisp on the edges. This recipe uses common pantry items and takes little hands-on time. If you want a different method or cook longer, check a simple slow cooker idea like easy crockpot sweet potatoes for other options.
how to make Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Follow the steps below. Work in order and check the potatoes for fork tenderness. Use a single layer on the tray so they roast, not steam. For a different texture, see tips or try a scalloped style like best scalloped sweet potatoes.
Ingredients :
- 3 medium sweet potatoes
- ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1.5 teaspoons cinnamon (divided)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ⅓ cup maple syrup + 2 tablespoons
- ⅓ cup chopped walnuts
- 1 teaspoon thyme
Directions :
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Clean and cut the sweet potatoes into ½-inch thick rounds. You can leave the skin on for added texture or peel it off for a smoother finish. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Season the Sweet Potatoes
In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato slices with melted butter, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly, ensuring each slice is evenly coated. Alternatively, place the ingredients in a ziplock bag, seal it, and shake to combine.
Arrange for Roasting
Lay the seasoned sweet potato slices in a single layer on a baking tray. Ensure there’s space between each slice to promote even browning. Overcrowding the pan can cause steaming instead of roasting. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, checking for fork tenderness as the baking time nears completion.
Prepare the Topping
While the sweet potatoes roast, mix the maple syrup, chopped walnuts, the remaining ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and thyme in a bowl. This topping will add a caramelized crunch to your sweet potatoes.
Add the Topping
Remove the baking tray from the oven. Top each sweet potato slice with about 1 teaspoon of the walnut and maple mixture. Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the topping caramelizes and the edges of the sweet potatoes turn golden.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve as is, or for an added layer of flavor, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.
how to serve Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Serve warm as a side dish with roasted meat, chicken, or fish. They also work well on a holiday table. You can top with crumbled feta, goat cheese, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley. For a full plate, add a green salad or steamed vegetables.
how to store Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Let the potatoes cool to room temperature. Place in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes to keep the topping crisp. You can also reheat in a toaster oven. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Cut slices the same thickness for even cooking.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Use two trays if needed.
- Use real maple syrup for best flavor.
- Toast the walnuts for deeper nutty flavor before mixing.
- If topping burns, cover loosely with foil for the last minutes of baking.
variation (if any)
- Add crumbled bacon for a smoky touch.
- Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for mild heat.
- Use brown butter instead of melted butter for a nutty flavor.
- For a vegan option, replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
A: Yes. Pecans or almonds work well. They give a different, but tasty crunch.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Roast the potatoes, keep the topping separate, and add the topping before the last bake when you reheat.
Q: Is this dish gluten free?
A: Yes. All ingredients here are naturally gluten free. Check labels to be sure.
Q: Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
A: Fresh gives the best texture. Canned ones are softer and may not hold the topping.
Q: How do I make the topping less sweet?
A: Use less maple syrup or add more thyme and a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness.
Conclusion
If you want more ideas with maple and cinnamon, try this take on Cinnamon Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes. For another home-style version, see Cinnamon Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Jen Around the World. For a simple maple roast idea, check Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes.