Crispy Sweet Potatoes Cinnamon Sugar

The scent of autumn always pulls me towards sweet potatoes, but it wasn't until a brisk October evening, with friends arriving unexpectedly, that this particular preparation clicked. I had some leftover sweet potatoes, a vague idea, and a sudden craving for something both savory and sweet. The kitchen hummed with anticipation, and the simple act of tossing those rounds with a hint of cinnamon sugar became a small revelation. It transformed a humble vegetable into something truly special, a warm hug on a plate.

I remember making these for a Friendsgiving potluck one year, amidst a chaotic spread of casseroles and roasted mains. My friend's usually picky daughter, who eyed vegetables with suspicion, snuck three pieces off the platter before dinner was even officially served. Her little smile, coated in a faint dusting of cinnamon sugar, was all the validation I needed. It was clear these weren't just sweet potatoes; they were a moment of pure, unadulterated joy.

Ingredients

• Sweet Potatoes: Opt for firm, vibrant orange sweet potatoes; their inherent sweetness is the soul of this dish.
• Olive Oil: This isn't just for coating; it's essential for achieving that gorgeous crisp exterior while roasting.
• Fine Sea Salt: A tiny bit makes a huge difference, balancing the sweetness and coaxing out deeper flavors.
• Granulated Sugar: The simple, sweet embrace that caramelizes slightly in the oven.
• Ground Cinnamon: This warm spice is the perfect aromatic partner, adding cozy depth to every bite.
• Melted Unsalted Butter (optional): A brush of this at the end adds a touch of richness and helps the cinnamon sugar truly adhere.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional): Don't underestimate this; a sprinkle adds a refreshing, unexpected counterpoint to the sweetness.

Instructions

Get Your Oven Ready:

Preheat your oven to a blazing 425°F (220°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper; this makes cleanup a breeze.

Coat Those Rounds:

In a spacious bowl, tumble your peeled sweet potato rounds with the olive oil and fine sea salt, ensuring every single piece glistens evenly.

Arrange for Crispiness:

Carefully spread the coated sweet potato rounds onto your prepared baking sheet in a single layer, giving each one space to breathe and crisp up without overlapping.

First Roast:

Slide them into the hot oven and let them roast for an initial 15 minutes, allowing the edges to begin their transformation.

Flip and Finish:

With a spatula, gently flip each round over and return them to the oven for another 12–15 minutes, until they are beautifully golden and wonderfully crisp at the edges.

Whip Up the Sweet Dust:

While your sweet potatoes are roasting to perfection, quickly combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl, stirring until it’s a fragrant, uniform blend.

The Magical Sprinkle:

As soon as those golden sweet potatoes emerge from the oven, if you’re using butter, give them a light brush; then, immediately and generously shower them with your cinnamon sugar mixture while they’re still piping hot.

Serve with Flair:

Transfer your irresistible sweet potatoes to a serving platter and, if you're feeling fancy, sprinkle with a touch of fresh chopped parsley before serving them warm to eager hands.

Save

During the pandemic lockdowns, when cooking at home became a daily ritual, these crispy sweet potatoes were a frequent sight on our dinner table. They were easy to make, comforting, and provided a little burst of sunshine in uncertain times. It wasn't just food; it was a small, predictable joy that brightened many quiet evenings, a testament to how simple ingredients can bring profound comfort.

Roasting for Perfection

Achieving that coveted crisp exterior is all about the heat and the space. Resist the urge to pile up your sweet potato rounds; each one needs direct contact with the hot air of the oven to properly caramelize and crisp. A high oven temperature ensures quick cooking and prevents them from becoming soggy.

Flavor Variations to Explore

While the classic cinnamon sugar is divine, don't hesitate to play around with other flavor profiles. I've often swapped granulated sugar for brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like sweetness, or even a touch of maple sugar for a different kind of warmth. A tiny pinch of nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon can also introduce intriguing new dimensions to the overall taste.

Serving Suggestions & Storage

These crispy sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile. They shine as a holiday side dish, pair beautifully with roasted chicken or pork, or even make a satisfyingly sweet snack on their own. They're best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and re-crisped.

• For an unexpected twist, serve them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted pecans.
• Don't be shy with the cinnamon sugar right after they come out of the oven; it melts into a delightful glaze.
• Always ensure your sweet potato rounds are roughly the same thickness for even cooking.

Save

These crispy cinnamon sugar sweet potatoes are more than just a side; they're a little burst of warmth and joy. I hope they bring as much simple deliciousness to your table as they have to mine.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I get extra crispy sweet potatoes?

For maximum crispiness, ensure your sweet potato rounds are cut to an even 1/2-inch thickness and arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet without overlapping. Using a convection oven setting, if available, can also significantly enhance browning and crispness. Roasting at a higher temperature, like 425°F (220°C), helps achieve a golden, crunchy exterior.

→ Can I use different sweeteners instead of granulated sugar?

Absolutely! While granulated sugar provides a classic sweetness, you can experiment with other options. Brown sugar will offer a deeper, more caramel-like flavor, while coconut sugar provides a slightly less refined sweetness with earthy notes. Adjust the amount to your taste preferences.

→ What are some good serving suggestions for these sweet potatoes?

These cinnamon sugar sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic sweet side dish for roasted meats like pork or chicken, especially during holiday meals. They're also delightful as a simple dessert, a warm snack, or even a unique addition to a brunch spread. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted pecans can elevate them further.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

These sweet potatoes are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when they are at their crispiest and warmest. While you can roast them ahead of time and reheat, they might lose some of their crisp texture. If preparing in advance, store them in an airtight container and reheat gently in the oven or an air fryer to revive some crispness before adding the cinnamon sugar.

→ What type of sweet potatoes are best for this preparation?

Most common varieties of sweet potatoes work well. Orange-fleshed varieties like Beauregard or Jewel sweet potatoes are excellent choices as they become wonderfully tender and sweet when roasted. Look for firm, unblemished potatoes of a similar size for even cooking.

→ Are these suitable for dietary restrictions?

Yes, as written, this dish is vegetarian and gluten-free. For a vegan version, ensure you skip the optional melted butter or use a plant-based butter alternative. Always double-check ingredient labels for any hidden animal products or cross-contamination if catering to strict dietary needs.