Maple Pecan Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe

If you’re searching for that perfect sweet potato dish to make your meals pop with flavor, you’re in for a treat. I’m so excited to share my Maple Pecan Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe with you — it’s that magical combination of sweet, savory, crunchy, and cozy that everyone asks me to make again and again. Whether you’re planning a holiday dinner or just want a comforting side, this recipe will quickly become your go-to because it’s simple, absolutely delicious, and a total crowd-pleaser.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients for a second because there’s a beautiful synergy here. The sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes gets boosted by real maple syrup, while toasted pecans add crunch and a lovely nutty flavor. The spices pull it all together, making it warm and comforting with every bite.

• Sweet Potatoes: I recommend large ones for nice thick slices; peeling is optional based on your texture preference.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted butter helps with roasting and adds richness without overpowering the maple.
• Cinnamon: Choose ground cinnamon for that classic warm note that pairs perfectly with sweet potatoes.
• Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a little bite to lift the flavors.
• Paprika: I use smoked paprika for an extra layer of depth.
• Maple Syrup: Real maple syrup is key – it caramelizes nicely in the oven.
• Chopped Pecans: Toast them lightly if you can; it really makes a difference!
• Thyme: Fresh is best, but dried works too; it adds a subtle earthiness.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own by switching up a few things, and you’ll find it’s super easy to customize! You can adjust the spice level, swap pecans for walnuts, or add a hint of orange zest for brightness — the sky’s the limit.

• Spice Variations: I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick that balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Nuts Swap: Walnuts or even toasted almonds make delicious alternatives to pecans, especially if that’s what you have on hand.
• Herb Switch: Rosemary works wonderfully if you don’t have thyme; it adds an aromatic earthiness that partners well with sweet potatoes.
• Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine for same great flavor without dairy.

How to Make Maple Pecan Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Sweet Potatoes

First, give your sweet potatoes a good scrub, and then slice them into ½-inch thick rounds. You can leave the skin on if you like that extra texture and nutrients, but peeling is totally fine, too. I’ve done it both ways, and honestly, it’s delicious either way — just depends on your mood!

Step 2: Mix the Spices and Butter

In a large bowl or even a big ziplock bag, add melted unsalted butter, the first teaspoon of cinnamon, salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss your sweet potato slices into the mix and make sure each slice gets coated evenly. I often find shaking it inside a bag is faster and means less mess!

Step 3: Roast Those Slices

Arrange the sweet potato slices on a baking tray in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd — space is important here so they roast instead of steam. Pop them in your preheated oven at 380°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. You’re aiming for tender but still firm slices with a bit of browning on the edges — roasting times can vary depending on your oven and potato thickness, so keep an eye on them!

Step 4: Combine Maple, Pecans & More Spices

While your sweet potatoes roast, grab a bowl and mix the maple syrup with chopped pecans, the rest of the cinnamon (½ teaspoon), and thyme. This combo will be the crowning glory when you drizzle it on top.

Step 5: Caramelize the Toppings

Once the potatoes are done roasting initially, take them out and spoon about a teaspoon of that maple-pecan mixture onto each slice. Slide the tray back into the oven for 8-10 more minutes, or until you see the edges starting to caramelize and the topping bubbling up slightly. This step really brings everything to life with flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

To finish it off, I love sprinkling a little crumbled feta cheese on top — it adds a lovely tang that contrasts with the sweetness. Serve these beauties warm, and prepare for compliments!

How to Serve Maple Pecan Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

I’m all about those finishing touches! For me, crumbled feta or goat cheese is the perfect tangy contrast to the sweet and nutty flavors. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme for color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the dish.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or a simple green salad. For holiday dinners, it’s a fantastic side alongside turkey and cranberry sauce, but it holds its own any time you want a flavorful vegetable.

Creative Ways to Present

Once I’ve made these several times, I started serving them stacked like mini towers, alternating sweet potato slices and pecan-maple topping. They look impressive on a platter, especially drizzled with a little extra maple syrup and sprinkled with chopped pecans before guests arrive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and I hope you do!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I typically reheat them gently to keep that perfect softness without losing the caramelized edges.

Freezing

I’ve frozen roasted sweet potatoes before by laying them flat on a tray, freezing until solid, then transferring to a ziplock bag. However, the texture is best fresh or refrigerated, so freezing isn’t my top recommendation if you want to keep the crisp edges.

Reheating

To get the best texture when reheating leftovers, I pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes instead of microwaving — this helps bring back the crispness on the edges while warming the inside perfectly.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Maple Pecan Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe has been a shining star in my kitchen for years, especially during the holidays. It’s the kind of dish that fills your home with a wonderful aroma and brings smiles around the table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do — it’s truly a sweet and nutty hug on a plate that anyone would love. Give it a try, share it with your loved ones, and let me know how it turns out for you!

Print