Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors, especially when the aroma fills your kitchen during the holidays. Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cranberries and Walnuts is a dish that’s equal parts comforting and festive. It’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and delivers a beautiful blend of caramelized sweetness and tartness.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Festive Appeal: Perfect for holiday tables or an everyday cozy dinner.
2. Versatile and Nutritious: Naturally gluten-free, full of fiber, and rich in flavor.
3. Perfect Balance: The earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, the tangy cranberries, and the crunch of walnuts make every bite memorable.

What Does It Taste Like?

This dish combines warm, roasted sweetness with tart pops of cranberry and nutty richness from the walnuts. The maple syrup and spices enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, creating a dish that’s hearty yet refreshing.

Ingredients for Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Here’s what you’ll need to create this festive side dish:

• Sweet Potatoes (4 medium): Peeled and cubed for even roasting.
• Maple Syrup (1/4 cup): Adds sweetness and caramelization.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Helps everything roast to golden perfection.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) & Nutmeg (1/4 tsp): Warm spices for depth of flavor.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): To balance sweetness.
• Cranberries (1 cup): Fresh or frozen; tart bursts that complement the maple syrup.
• Walnuts (1/2 cup): Adds crunch and earthy richness.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, optional): For a pop of color and freshness.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing ingredients together.
• Baking Sheet: A large sheet ensures even roasting.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring halfway through roasting.

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Pecans: Swap walnuts for pecans for a milder nutty flavor.
• Dried Cranberries: If fresh cranberries aren’t available, dried ones can work; add them towards the end to avoid burning.
• Honey or Brown Sugar: Use instead of maple syrup for a different type of sweetness.
• Butternut Squash: Mix with sweet potatoes for added variety.

How to Make Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cranberries and Walnuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cubed sweet potatoes, maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until the potatoes are well coated.
3. First Roast: Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
4. Add Cranberries and Walnuts: After 25 minutes, add cranberries and walnuts to the baking sheet. Gently mix and return to the oven.
5. Finish Roasting: Roast for another 10-15 minutes until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the cranberries have softened.
6. Serve: Let cool slightly, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve warm.

What to Serve with Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

• Main Courses: Pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a plant-based nut roast.
• Other Sides: Try alongside green beans almondine or a fresh kale and apple salad.
• Holiday Spread: A stunning addition to any festive table, complementing both sweet and savory dishes.

Tips for Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes

• Even Sizing: Cut the sweet potatoes into similar-sized cubes to ensure even roasting.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the sweet potatoes room to roast rather than steam.
• Stir Midway: Tossing halfway ensures even caramelization.
• Watch the Nuts: Add walnuts later in the roasting process to prevent burning.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or microwave in short bursts.
• Freeze: While freezing is not ideal due to the texture of sweet potatoes, it’s possible. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month and reheat in the oven.

FAQ

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Roast the sweet potatoes and store them separately from the cranberries and walnuts. When ready to serve, reheat and mix them together for the final roast.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

While fresh sweet potatoes work best for texture, canned sweet potatoes can be used in a pinch. Reduce roasting time significantly.

What if I don’t like cranberries?

You can substitute with dried cherries, raisins, or even pomegranate seeds for a similar tangy-sweet effect.

Final Thoughts

Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cranberries and Walnuts is a dish that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for a holiday gathering. The flavors and textures work together beautifully, leaving everyone asking for seconds.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! And while you’re at it, explore these other irresistible holiday recipes:

• Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme
• Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl
• Puff Pastry Brie Bites

Enjoy every bite of this festive side dish!

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