Roasted sweet potatoes with cinnamon and honey are a simple, cozy side that feels like a warm hug. The honey and cinnamon caramelize as the potatoes roast, creating sweet, slightly crisp edges and a soft, tender center. This dish smells amazing while it cooks and adds a touch of comfort to weeknight dinners or holiday spreads.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 220 kcal (approx.)
- Protein: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 120 mg (varies with added salt)
Why Make This Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon & Honey
This recipe is quick, forgiving, and full of flavor. It turns plain sweet potatoes into a sweet-savory side with warm cinnamon notes and a glossy honey finish. The dish pairs well with roasted meats, holiday mains, or a simple bowl meal. It’s great for feeding a crowd and travels well to potlucks. The texture is soft inside with caramelized, slightly crisp edges that add contrast and depth.
How to Make Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon & Honey
This method gives even browning and a sticky, flavorful coating. Roast at high heat so the sugars caramelize and the potatoes stay tender.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes so they cook evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mixing
Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Add olive oil, honey, ground cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Toss until each piece is evenly coated with the sweet and spiced mixture.
Step 3: Cooking
Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Roast until the pieces are tender inside and golden with caramelized edges.
Step 4: Finishing
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the sweet potatoes cool for a few minutes so the honey sets slightly. Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed, then transfer to a serving dish.
How to Serve Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon & Honey
Serve warm as a side with roasted chicken, pork, or a grain bowl. Top with chopped fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for color and brightness. For a richer finish, add a pat of butter or a drizzle of extra honey. These also work well chilled on a salad or tossed with quinoa for a sweet-savory grain salad.
How to Store Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon & Honey
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or in a skillet to keep edges crisp.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
- Tip: Avoid microwave reheating for long, as it can make them mushy. Re-crisp in a hot oven or skillet.
Expert Tips for Perfect Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon & Honey
- Cut even pieces so everything cooks at the same rate.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Give the cubes space to brown.
- Toss halfway through roasting to get even caramelization.
- Use good-quality honey for a better flavor and shine.
- If the honey browns too fast, loosely tent with foil toward the end.
- For extra crispness, finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes—watch closely.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar before serving to balance the sweetness.
Delicious Variations
- Maple-Cinnamon: Replace honey with pure maple syrup for a deeper, woodsy sweetness.
- Spiced: Add 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg and a pinch of cloves for warm spice.
- Savory Twist: Omit honey and add a sprinkle of smoked paprika and a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss with toasted pecans or walnuts just before serving.
- Herby Citrus: Add orange zest and chopped rosemary for a bright, aromatic version.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Q: Can I leave the skin on the sweet potatoes?
A: Yes. Leave the skin on for more texture and nutrients. Wash and scrub well, then cube and roast. Skin-on pieces may crisp more on the edges. -
Q: Can I use frozen sweet potato cubes?
A: You can, but thaw and pat them dry first. Frozen pieces may release water, which can prevent browning. Roast at the same temperature but expect a bit longer cook time. -
Q: How do I prevent the honey from burning?
A: Mix the honey with the oil before roasting and keep the oven at 425°F. If you see dark spots forming quickly, lower the oven to 400°F and tent with foil near the end. -
Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes. Roast a batch and store in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore texture. They stay good for 3–4 days refrigerated. -
Q: Can I make this without oil for a lower-fat option?
A: You can reduce the oil to 1 tablespoon or skip it and toss the potatoes with a small amount of water and honey. Note: oil helps with browning and crispness, so texture may be softer without it. -
Q: Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
A: Yes. Use two baking sheets and roast them on separate racks. Swap the pans halfway through cooking to ensure even heat.
Conclusion
This simple recipe turns ordinary sweet potatoes into a warm, sweet-savory favorite that smells like holidays and tastes like comfort. The honey and cinnamon caramelize to create soft centers and slightly crisp edges that everyone will enjoy. For another take on honey-sweet roasted potatoes, try this variation inspired by chefs: Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Honey and Cinnamon. Give it a try — it’s easy, forgiving, and delicious.
Print
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon & Honey
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Roasted sweet potatoes with cinnamon and honey are a cozy side that feels like a warm hug, with caramelized edges and a tender center.
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and cube the sweet potatoes.
- In a large bowl, toss cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, honey, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
Notes
For extra crispness, finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Avoid microwave reheating for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
