Roasted sweet potatoes are the kind of side dish that makes the whole house smell amazing. They come out of the oven with golden edges, soft centers, and just the right amount of sweetness from honey and warmth from cinnamon. It’s the kind of recipe that feels cozy but is easy enough for any night of the week.
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish is simple, but it always impresses. It’s one of those recipes that’s just as good on a busy weeknight as it is on a holiday table.
- It takes very little prep work.
- The flavors are cozy and comforting.
- The honey caramelizes in the oven for a rich taste.
- Sweet potatoes are naturally nutritious, so it’s a win-win.
I started making this years ago for Thanksgiving, but now it shows up at Sunday dinners and even as a meal-prep staple during the week.
What You’ll Need
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Pro Tips
- Cut the sweet potatoes evenly so they roast at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—space helps them crisp instead of steam.
- Stir halfway through roasting for even caramelization.
- Taste and adjust seasoning after baking—sometimes a pinch more salt makes them pop.
Tools You’ll Need
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven mitts
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap honey for maple syrup for a deeper flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for a sweet-spicy kick.
- Try butter instead of olive oil for extra richness.
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary at the end for a savory twist.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Peel and cube sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Store in water in the fridge, then drain and pat dry before roasting.
- You can roast them ahead of time and reheat in a 400°F oven for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
Peel 4 medium sweet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes.
Step 2: Make the Seasoning Mix
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons olive oil, 3 tablespoons honey, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Toss the Sweet Potatoes
Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the bowl and toss until every piece is coated in the honey-cinnamon mixture.
Step 4: Spread on Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the coated sweet potatoes in a single layer, leaving space between each cube.
Step 5: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until sweet potatoes are tender and golden brown on the edges.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for 2–3 minutes. Serve warm with a drizzle of extra honey if desired.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to bring back crisp edges.
- Avoid microwaving if you want them crispy—it softens them.
Servings and Time
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Macros (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~230
- Carbs: 41g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 14g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- High oven heat caramelizes natural sugars in sweet potatoes, giving them golden edges.
- Honey helps the potatoes brown even more, adding a sticky glaze.
- Cinnamon balances the sweetness with warmth, while olive oil keeps them moist and prevents burning.
Common Mistakes
- Cutting uneven cubes—leads to some overcooked and some undercooked pieces.
- Overcrowding the pan—makes potatoes steam instead of crisp.
- Skipping the stir—flipping halfway ensures even roasting.
What to Serve With
- Roast chicken or turkey
- Grilled salmon
- A fresh green salad
- Garlic butter steak
- Holiday ham
FAQ
Can I leave the skin on?
Yes! Just scrub the sweet potatoes well. The skin adds extra fiber and texture.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes, just swap honey for maple syrup or agave.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
Use foil or just oil the baking sheet lightly—just watch for sticking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use two baking sheets so the potatoes have space to roast properly.
Conclusion
Roasted sweet potatoes with cinnamon and honey are one of those dishes that taste like pure comfort. They’re simple, wholesome, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe always brings people back for seconds. Give it a try, then let me know in the comments how it turned out for you—I’d love to hear your twists and tips!
