As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, I find myself craving the warm, comforting flavors of autumn. Picture this: the sweet, earthy aroma of cinnamon and maple wafting through my kitchen while tender sweet potatoes transform into golden-brown perfection. These Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Wedges are the ultimate side dish that brings a touch of holiday spirit to any meal. What I love most about this recipe is its effortless elegance; with just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both pleasing to the eye and a delight to the taste buds.
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply wanting to elevate your weeknight dinner, these wedges are a breeze to prepare. The crispy edges and fluffy interiors, paired with a glossy maple glaze, make them a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re gluten-free and vegetarian—perfect for the health-conscious eaters in your life. So let’s dive into this delicious recipe and embrace the flavorful essence of fall with each delightful bite!
Why choose Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Wedges?
Crisp exteriors and fluffy interiors make these wedges a true delight, creating the perfect bite every time. Their versatility shines, serving as a fabulous side for everything from roasted chicken to festive gatherings. With minimal prep, you can easily whip them up in under 30 minutes. The warm aroma of cinnamon and maple fills your kitchen, evoking cozy autumn vibes. Not to mention, they are naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making them a guilt-free indulgence! Turn your meals into a celebration with these irresistible sweet potato wedges!
Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Wedges Ingredients
For the Wedges
• Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness and creamy texture make them the star of this dish. Try purple sweet potatoes for a colorful twist!
• Olive Oil – Adds crispiness and helps the spices adhere; substitute with melted coconut oil for a tropical note.
• Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness and creates a lovely caramelization; brown sugar offers a richer taste.
• Ground Cinnamon – Provides that warm, comforting flavor; feel free to adjust to your preference, or mix in a pinch of nutmeg for added depth.
• Sea Salt – Balances the sweetness perfectly, elevating the overall flavor profile.
• Maple Syrup – Drizzled on at the end for a decadent finish; using Grade B syrup will deepen the maple flavor, making your cinnamon sugar sweet potato wedges truly irresistible.
Optional Toppings
• Toasted Pecans – Add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor post-glaze; they pair wonderfully with the sweetness.
• Greek Yogurt – A tangy contrast that complements the sweet flavor—offer it as a dip for an extra creamy element.
• Balsamic Glaze – A drizzle adds an unexpected sweet and tangy twist for adventurous palates!
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Wedges
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Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This setup ensures that your sweet potatoes will caramelize beautifully and won’t stick.
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Wash, peel (if desired), and cut the sweet potatoes into ½-inch thick wedges. Aim for uniformity in size for even cooking; place them in a large bowl for easy mixing.
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Drizzle the sweet potato wedges with olive oil. Use enough to coat them lightly, then toss to ensure they’re evenly coated for that perfect crispy texture.
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Combine sugar, cinnamon, and sea salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle this fragrant mixture over the sweet potatoes, tossing them again until they are artfully flecked with cinnamon goodness.
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Spread the wedges out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to keep them crispier as they roast for 20-25 minutes—flip them halfway through for even browning.
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Remove them from the oven and drizzle warm maple syrup over the wedges, tossing gently to coat. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the glaze to set on the crispy edges.
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Serve your sweet potato wedges immediately, garnishing with a sprinkle of extra sea salt if desired. Enjoy the delightful mingling of flavors!
Optional: Top with toasted pecans for an extra crunch and added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Wedges Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these sweet potato wedges with exciting flavors!
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Balsamic Twist: Replace half of the maple syrup with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor explosion. This will elevate your dish to a whole new level.
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Nutty Crunch: Add toasted pecans after glazing for an irresistible crunch. The nutty flavor holds its own against the sweetness, creating a delightful contrast.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a warming kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. This spice will wake up your taste buds!
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Herbed Delight: Blend in fresh rosemary or thyme with your olive oil before tossing it with sweet potatoes. The earthy herbs bring another layer of flavor that is perfect for fall.
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Sweetener Swap: Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness. This healthier option adds richness while keeping everything gluten-free.
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Creamy Dip: Serve your wedges with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream mixed with a touch of lemon juice. The tanginess balances out the sweetness beautifully for a delightful treat.
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Cinnamon Sugar Carousel: Experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or pumpkin spice, to amplify the cozy feel of these snacks. Each variation can evoke a different vibe of fall.
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Maple Vanilla Infusion: Mix in a dash of vanilla extract with the maple syrup for a luxurious twist. The creamy vanilla will elevate the overall flavor, making every bite heavenly.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Wedges
Room Temperature: Allow the sweet potato wedges to cool completely before placing them in a sealed container. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftover wedges in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven to regain their crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled roasted sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat from frozen or refrigerated, place the wedges on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Enjoy your Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Wedges!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Wedges
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Perfectly Cut Wedges: The size matters; aim for uniform ½-inch wedges for even cooking and texture. If they differ too much, some may burn while others stay undercooked.
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Avoid Sogginess: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Space allows hot air to circulate, resulting in crispy edges instead of steamed, soggy sweet potato wedges.
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Glaze Timing: For a beautifully set maple glaze, drizzle syrup towards the end of roasting. It caramelizes without burning, enhancing the sweetness of your cinnamon sugar sweet potato wedges.
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Preheat the Sheet: Heat your empty baking sheet for 10 minutes while the oven preheats. This encourages immediate browning for an irresistible crispy finish.
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Mix it Up: Feel free to experiment with variations! Try adding a splash of balsamic glaze for complexity or incorporating toasted pecans for added crunch after glazing.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Wedges are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can wash, peel (if desired), and cut the sweet potatoes into wedges up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container with a little water to prevent browning. For added convenience, you can also mix the sugar and cinnamon ahead of time and keep it in a sealed jar. When you’re ready to enjoy, just toss the prepped sweet potato wedges with olive oil, coat them in the mixture, and roast as directed. With these make ahead options, you’ll have a delicious, cozy side dish with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Cinnamon and Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Looking to create a nourishing spread that beautifully complements your roasted sweet potatoes?
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Savory Roasted Chicken: The herby flavors and juicy texture of roasted chicken pair perfectly with the sweet, caramelized notes of the wedges, balancing the meal beautifully.
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Grilled Pork Chops: The slightly smoky flavor of pork chops enhances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes, creating a delightful contrast that will leave your taste buds dancing.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add a fresh, vibrant crunch, bringing color and a lovely texture to the table alongside your sweet potato wedges.
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Cranberry Salsa: A refreshing cranberry salsa drizzled over the sweet potatoes introduces a tartness that brightens the dish and plays wonderfully with the maple notes.
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Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad with spinach and feta offers a wholesome component to your meal, refreshing your palate between bites of the rich sweet potatoes.
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Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a tangy contrast, perfectly balancing out the sweetness with a creamy, refreshing element.
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Apple Cider: To sip alongside, a glass of spiced apple cider can enhance the autumn experience, echoing the sweet, warm flavors in your roasted sweet potatoes.
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Pumpkin Spice Muffins: For dessert, indulge in pumpkin spice muffins that complement the fall theme, transitioning the meal from savory to sweet perfectly.
Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Wedges Recipe FAQs
What kind of sweet potatoes are best for this recipe?
I recommend using standard orange sweet potatoes for their natural sweetness and creamy texture. However, if you want a vibrant twist, try purple sweet potatoes! They not only add color but also have a slightly different flavor profile that can elevate your dish.
How do I store leftover cinnamon sugar sweet potato wedges?
To store any leftover wedges, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps to restore their wonderful crispiness.
Can I freeze cinnamon sugar sweet potato wedges?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze the cooled sweet potato wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
What can I do if my sweet potato wedges are soggy?
To prevent sogginess, ensure your wedges are spaced out on the baking sheet and not overcrowded. Hot air circulation is key! If you find they are already soggy, try broiling them for 1-3 minutes in the oven for a quick crisp-up.
Are cinnamon sugar sweet potato wedges suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, indeed! These wedges are naturally gluten-free, making them a wonderful option for those avoiding gluten while still enjoying the festive flavors of fall. Just be cautious with any toppings or sauces you may wish to add!
What variations can I try with the recipe?
The more the merrier! You can mix things up by adding a splash of balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy twist or top with toasted pecans after drizzling with maple syrup for that extra crunch. Don’t hesitate to get creative with additional spices like nutmeg for added warmth!
Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Wedges for Cozy Fall Evenings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash, peel, and cut the sweet potatoes into ½-inch thick wedges.
- Drizzle the wedges with olive oil and toss to coat.
- Combine sugar, cinnamon, and sea salt in a small bowl, then sprinkle over sweet potatoes.
- Spread the wedges out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle maple syrup over the wedges, tossing gently.
- Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve immediately, optionally garnishing with extra sea salt and toppings.