If you’re searching for a comforting dish bursting with warm flavors and seasonal charm, this Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Apples Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together the natural sweetness of tender roasted sweet potatoes and crisp apples, all coated in a glorious blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. The subtle hints of maple syrup amplify the cozy vibe of this dish, while optional pecans and cranberries add delightful texture and color. It’s the perfect recipe to brighten up any dinner table, whether for a weekday meal or a festive gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Apples Recipe is surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a handful of staple ingredients that combine to create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role, from the sweetness of the apples and sweet potatoes to the warmth of the spices and the richness of the olive oil.
- 3 large sweet potatoes: Peeled and cubed, they’re the hearty base that roasts into tender, caramelized goodness.
- 3 large apples: Peeled, cored, and cubed for a juicy contrast that balances the earthiness of the sweet potatoes.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the spices cling to the veggies and fruit while roasting.
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup: Sweetens naturally and promotes a beautiful glaze during roasting.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers warmth and comforting aroma throughout the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth and slightly nutty note.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a gentle zing that brightens the overall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives just enough subtle heat to balance the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional): Adds a wonderful crunch and nutty richness when sprinkled near the end of roasting.
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional): Provides chewy bursts of tart sweetness that complement the roasted elements beautifully.
How to Make Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Apples Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your sweet potatoes and apples roast evenly without sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine Sweet Potatoes and Apples
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes and apples. The contrasting textures and natural sugars from both create the magic of this dish.
Step 3: Whisk the Spice Mixture
In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, pure maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and black pepper. This spice blend is the flavor powerhouse, infusing the dish with layers of warmth and sweetness.
Step 4: Coat the Ingredients
Pour the spice mixture over your sweet potatoes and apples, then toss everything until every cube is luscious and evenly coated. This step ensures each bite has that wonderful balance of flavor.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the coated sweet potatoes and apples in a single layer across the prepared baking sheet. Giving each piece space allows for perfect caramelization rather than steaming.
Step 6: Roast to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Remember to stir halfway through to promote even browning and tenderness. You’ll notice the sweet potatoes soften beautifully and the apples become tender yet still hold their shape.
Step 7: Add Pecans and Cranberries (Optional)
If you love a bit of crunch and contrasting sweetness, sprinkle the chopped pecans and dried cranberries over the roasting mixture during the last five minutes. This adds both color and a lovely textural pop.
Step 8: Cool Slightly and Serve
Once roasted, take the pan out of the oven and let your Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Apples Recipe cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to enjoy every bite.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Apples Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or a light dusting of additional cinnamon just before serving. A drizzle of extra maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream cheese can also add delightful creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the warm spices.
Side Dishes
This recipe makes an incredible side for roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or even a festive turkey dinner. Pairing it with simple green vegetables like sautéed kale or steamed green beans can balance the meal perfectly. You can also serve it alongside grains like quinoa or wild rice for a fuller plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, serve this Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Apples Recipe in a warm, rustic cast iron skillet or a charming ceramic baking dish right out of the oven. For a brunch twist, spoon the mixture over Greek yogurt and top with a sprinkle of toasted nuts and honey.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it perfect to prepare in advance and enjoy later during the week.
Freezing
If you want to save this flavorful side for longer, let it cool completely, then freeze it in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months without losing much of its texture or flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, to keep the sweet potatoes from getting mushy and to retain that lovely roasted texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! Crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are excellent choices as they hold their shape well when roasted and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
Is it necessary to peel the sweet potatoes and apples?
Peeling is recommended for this recipe to ensure a smooth, tender texture throughout, but if you prefer a bit more rustic bite and extra fiber, leaving the skins on is perfectly fine as long as you wash them thoroughly.
Can I omit the maple syrup?
Yes, though the maple syrup adds that subtle, natural sweetness and helps caramelize the dish beautifully. You could substitute with honey or agave nectar if desired, but skipping it might make the dish less glossy and sweet.
What if I don’t have all the spices on hand?
Ground cinnamon is essential for the signature flavor, but if you’re missing nutmeg or ginger, you can still make a tasty version. Just adjust the spices to your taste or substitute with pumpkin pie spice if you have it.
Are the pecans and cranberries necessary?
Not at all! They’re optional, but they do add a lovely textural contrast and bursts of flavor. Feel free to omit or replace them with your favorite nuts and dried fruits.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Apples Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites for its effortless preparation and heartwarming flavors. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate and works beautifully year-round. I can’t encourage you enough to try it out—once you do, I’m sure it will find a permanent spot on your table and in your heart, just like it did in mine.
Print
Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Apples Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Apples recipe offers a deliciously sweet and spiced side dish perfect for autumn or any cozy meal. Tender cubes of sweet potatoes and apples are tossed in a flavorful mixture of olive oil, maple syrup, and warming spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, then roasted to caramelized perfection. Optional additions of chopped pecans and dried cranberries add a delightful crunch and burst of tartness, making this dish a colorful and nutritious complement to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch cubes
Spice Mixture
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even roasting.
- Mix Sweet Potatoes and Apples: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes with the peeled, cored, and cubed apples, preparing them for seasoning.
- Prepare Spice Mixture: In a smaller bowl, whisk together olive oil, pure maple syrup, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper until the ingredients are fully blended and aromatic.
- Toss with Spice Mixture: Pour the prepared spice mixture over the sweet potatoes and apples. Toss thoroughly so that every cube is evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated sweet potatoes and apples in a single layer on the parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing sufficient space for roasting and caramelization.
- Roast: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and tender consistency.
- Add Nuts and Cranberries: If using pecans and dried cranberries, sprinkle them over the mixture during the last 5 minutes of roasting to toast the nuts lightly and warm the cranberries without burning.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the dish cool slightly before serving to enjoy the warm, spiced flavors.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or skip nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
- Ensure to stir halfway through roasting to prevent burning and to promote even caramelization of sweet potatoes and apples.
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to maintain shape and add a nice tart contrast to sweet potatoes.
- Adjust the amount of maple syrup based on your sweetness preference.
- This dish pairs well as a side for roasted meats, holiday meals, or as a healthy vegetarian entrée.
