Description
This recipe for Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Apples offers a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect as a side or a wholesome snack. Tender sweet potatoes and crisp apples are roasted to caramelized perfection with a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, enhanced with maple syrup and olive oil. Optional additions of pecans and dried cranberries provide a delightful crunch and a burst of sweetness, making this dish a festive and nutritious treat suitable for autumn and beyond.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 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 Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine sweet potatoes and apples: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes and apples, preparing them to be seasoned.
- Prepare the spice mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, pure maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Coat the vegetables and fruit: Pour the spice mixture over the sweet potatoes and apples in the large bowl, tossing carefully until all pieces are evenly coated with the flavorful blend.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Spread the coated sweet potatoes and apples evenly in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
- Roast in the oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Stir halfway through to promote even cooking and caramelization. The sweet potatoes should become tender and lightly caramelized.
- Add nuts and berries (optional): If using pecans and dried cranberries, sprinkle them over the mixture during the last 5 minutes of baking to toast pecans and warm the cranberries without burning.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the roasted sweet potatoes and apples cool slightly before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Notes
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the maple syrup by 1 tablespoon.
- For a vegan and gluten-free side, verify that your maple syrup and dried cranberries are processed accordingly.
- To make the dish spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper in the spice mix.
- Use a mix of apple varieties like Granny Smith and Fuji for balanced tartness and sweetness.
