Maple Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts and Thyme

Imagine the sweet aroma of maple syrup and cinnamon filling your kitchen, mingled with the earthy scent of roasted sweet potatoes and thyme. Maple Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts and Thyme is the perfect side dish to elevate any meal. With its caramelized sweetness, nutty crunch, and subtle savory notes, this dish is an irresistible blend of flavors and textures. Whether for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Maple Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes

This dish combines a few simple ingredients to create a flavorful, nourishing, and visually stunning side dish.

• Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of maple syrup pairs perfectly with the warm cinnamon, earthy thyme, and nutty walnuts.
• Nutrient-Rich: Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamins and fiber, while walnuts add heart-healthy fats and protein.
• Easy to Prepare: It takes just minutes to prep before letting your oven do the hard work.
• Versatile: Pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, vegetarian mains, or even as a standalone dish.

Ingredients for Maple Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Ingredient	Quantity
Sweet potatoes (medium-sized)	3, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
Unsalted butter (melted)	1/3 cup
Ground cinnamon	1 1/2 teaspoons
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Ground black pepper	1/2 teaspoon
Maple syrup	1/3 cup, plus 2 tablespoons for drizzling
Chopped walnuts	1/3 cup
Fresh thyme leaves	1 teaspoon (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Roasted Sweet Potatoes

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

2. Season and Toss

• In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, ground cinnamon, salt, black pepper, and 1/3 cup of maple syrup.
• Pour this mixture over the cubed sweet potatoes and toss until every piece is evenly coated.

3. Roast the Sweet Potatoes

• Spread the sweet potatoes on the baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded.
• Roast for 25 minutes in the preheated oven.

4. Add Walnuts and Finish Roasting

• Remove the baking sheet from the oven and toss the sweet potatoes gently.
• Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the sweet potatoes and return the baking sheet to the oven.
• Roast for another 10–15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender, caramelized, and golden, and the walnuts are toasted.

5. Add a Maple Drizzle and Garnish

• Once out of the oven, drizzle the sweet potatoes with the remaining 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for added sweetness and a sticky glaze.
• Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves to add a fragrant and earthy finishing touch.

6. Serve Warm

• Transfer the roasted sweet potatoes to a serving dish and serve immediately. They pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, turkey, pork, or even a vegetarian quinoa dish.

Tips for Perfect Maple Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes

1. Cut Evenly: Dice the sweet potatoes into equal-sized cubes for even cooking and caramelization.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the potatoes out in a single layer to ensure they roast instead of steam.
3. Toast the Walnuts Perfectly: Adding the walnuts toward the end of roasting prevents them from burning while ensuring a nutty crunch.
4. Fresh or Dried Thyme: While fresh thyme offers a more vibrant flavor, dried thyme works just as well in a pinch.
5. Optional Substitutions: You can substitute pecans for walnuts or honey for maple syrup for a slightly different flavor profile.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~210 kcal
Carbohydrates	~28g
Protein	~2g
Fat	~9g
Fiber	~3g
Sugars	~11g

FAQs About Maple Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the sweet potatoes by peeling, cubing, and seasoning them a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Roast them fresh for the best flavor and texture.

2. What can I use instead of walnuts?

Pecans are an excellent substitute for walnuts and add a slightly sweeter flavor. For a nut-free version, you can use pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch.

3. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter.

4. How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?

The sweet potatoes should be fork-tender and caramelized on the edges. If you’re unsure, pierce a piece with a fork—it should go through easily.

5. Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme?

Yes, dried thyme works well. Use about half the amount of fresh thyme called for in the recipe since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

6. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Carrots, parsnips, or even Brussels sprouts make great additions. Just make sure to adjust the roasting time to ensure all the vegetables cook evenly.

Why Maple Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes are Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is versatile enough to shine in a variety of settings. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday gathering, meal-prepping for the week, or creating a quick side dish for a casual dinner, Maple Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts and Thyme is the perfect choice. Its vibrant flavors and textures make it a standout addition to any meal.

Let’s Get Cooking!

Now that you’ve got the recipe, it’s time to turn your kitchen into a haven of warm, comforting aromas. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as delicious as it is simple to make. Your family and friends will thank you for bringing this flavorful, nutrient-packed side to the table!

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