Caramelized Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon and Brown Sugar Recipe

One of my fondest memories with my family revolves around the cozy warmth of fall evenings, and nothing brings that mood to life quite like my Caramelized Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon and Brown Sugar Recipe. The moment the sweet potatoes start roasting, the aroma of cinnamon and brown sugar fills the kitchen, sparking smiles even before the first bite. I've served this dish at family dinners and casual gatherings, and it never fails to impress—a simple recipe that feels special. There’s something joyful about sneaking a crispy, caramel-coated cube while the rest are still cooking; it’s pure comfort on a plate.

What makes this Caramelized Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon and Brown Sugar Recipe so special is how effortlessly it straddles the line between sweet and savory. The aroma alone will draw everyone into the kitchen, and the beautiful amber color with caramelized edges looks stunning on the plate. The cinnamon adds cozy spice without overpowering, while the brown sugar melts into sticky, golden pockets. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and incredibly versatile—you can enjoy it as a side or even a snack.

If you’re new to roasting or hesitant to try caramelizing sugars in the oven, don’t worry. I’ll walk you through every step to ensure your sweet potatoes come out perfectly golden and tender without being mushy or burnt. Follow along and you’ll have a dish that’s both comforting and exciting to share.

Ingredients You’ll Be Working With

Measuring your ingredients accurately helps get consistent results every time. You’ll find the full ingredient list with precise amounts in the recipe card below, but here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need and a few substitution tips.

• Sweet potatoes: The star of the dish, their natural sweetness shines through; keep the skin on for extra texture if you like.
• Olive oil: Helps create those crispy, caramelized edges; any neutral oil could work, but olive oil adds subtle flavor.
• Sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor; kosher salt is fine too.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warm, comforting spice that pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes.
• Brown sugar: Sweetens and helps with caramelization; dark brown sugar adds more depth but light works well.
• Maple syrup (optional): Drizzled at the end, it boosts sweetness and glossy appeal; honey is an alternative for non-vegans.

If you don’t have brown sugar, coconut sugar can be a great substitute for a slightly different but still delicious caramel flavor.

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet: A rimmed one prevents any caramelized sugar from spilling over and makes cleanup easier.
• Parchment paper: Keeps sweet potatoes from sticking and protects your baking sheet from sticky sugars.
• Mixing bowl: For tossing your sweet potatoes evenly with spices and oil.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: To cut sweet potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes for even roasting.
• Oven thermometer (optional): Helpful to ensure your oven hits the perfect 425°F for ideal caramelization.

How to Make Caramelized Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon and Brown Sugar Recipe

Let’s get your oven preheated and ingredients prepped so your sweet potatoes come out golden, sticky, and irresistible. Here’s how I approach it:

1. Prep your sweet potatoes: After washing and scrubbing, cut them into 1-inch cubes. I like to keep the skin on because it adds a rustic texture and nutrients.
2. Mix the seasoning: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil, sea salt, ground cinnamon, and brown sugar until every cube is nicely coated. This step ensures even caramelization and flavor balance.
3. Arrange for roasting: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the sweet potatoes out in a single layer. Crowding the pan can trap steam and make them less crispy, so give them some breathing room.
4. Roast at high heat: Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the sweet potatoes halfway through roasting to get even caramelization on all sides. They’re done when edges are golden brown and centers are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Add the finishing touch: Just before serving, drizzle the maple syrup over the warm sweet potatoes for an extra layer of sweetness and shine that really elevates the dish.

How to Serve

Flavor Boosters

Try sprinkling a handful of toasted pecans or chopped walnuts over the caramelized sweet potatoes for a delightful crunch. If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of cayenne or a dash of smoked paprika complements the sweetness beautifully. For an herbal note, some fresh chopped rosemary or thyme adds depth without overpowering.

Perfect Pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with roast chicken or turkey for a classic meal. It also works lovely alongside grain bowls, and for a vegan option, serve with sautéed greens and quinoa. A crisp white wine or sparkling cider balances the sweet and spicy notes perfectly.

Presentation Touches

For gatherings, serve these sweet potatoes in a warm ceramic dish for a rustic vibe. You can also portion them into small ramekins for elegant plating. If you’re gifting this recipe or bringing it to potlucks, pack them in an airtight container and add a little maple syrup drizzle just before serving for a fresh taste.

Variations & Easy Swaps

• Use coconut oil instead of olive oil for a tropical twist and extra richness.
• Swap sweet potatoes for butternut squash or carrots for a different veggie base.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger alongside cinnamon for a spiced upgrade.
• Make it savory by omitting brown sugar and sprinkling with herbs and a little smoked salt.
• For extra indulgence, toss sweet potatoes with vegan butter before roasting.
• Drizzle with agave syrup instead of maple syrup if you prefer a lighter sweetness.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to crisp them back up.
• You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil to restore caramelization.
• Sweet potatoes freeze well; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

FAQs

• Can I peel the sweet potatoes? Absolutely! Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrition, but peeling is fine if you prefer a smoother bite.
• What if I don’t have brown sugar? Coconut sugar or even white granulated sugar can work, though brown sugar provides the best caramel flavor.
• Can this recipe be doubled? Yes! Use two baking sheets to avoid crowding and ensure even roasting.
• Is maple syrup required? It’s optional but highly recommended for a beautiful, sweet finish that really pushes the dish over the top.
• Can I roast them at a lower temperature? You can, but 425°F ensures crispy edges and quick caramelization without drying out the sweet potatoes.

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