Sweet, savory, and irresistibly crunchy, Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a must-have side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, a cozy family dinner, or simply want a wholesome side to pair with your weeknight meals, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the warm notes of cinnamon and maple syrup, while crunchy walnuts and fresh thyme take it to the next level. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of flavors: Sweet, buttery, warm, and slightly earthy from the fresh herbs.
- Incredible texture: Caramelized edges, soft centers, and a crispy walnut topping.
- Simple and wholesome ingredients: No complicated prep—just a few pantry staples.
- Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for holiday tables, potlucks, or any time you need a standout side dish.
Ingredients
- 3 medium sweet potatoes
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1½ teaspoons cinnamon, divided
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup + 2 tablespoons
- ⅓ cup chopped walnuts
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the sweet potatoes: Scrub and slice into ½-inch thick rounds. Peel if desired.
- Season: In a large bowl, toss sweet potato slices with melted butter, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Make sure all slices are well coated.
- Roast: Arrange in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and lightly browned.
- Make the topping: In a small bowl, combine maple syrup, walnuts, the remaining ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and thyme.
- Add the topping: Remove potatoes from the oven. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the walnut-maple mixture onto each slice.
- Finish roasting: Return to oven for another 8–10 minutes, until the topping is golden and slightly caramelized.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes, then serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with coconut oil or olive oil.
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the walnuts or replace with sunflower seeds for crunch.
- Make It Savory: Add a touch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a spicy contrast.
- Festive Flair: Top with dried cranberries or a sprinkle of feta for a holiday twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted meats, turkey , or plant-based mains.
- Serve as a vegetarian main over quinoa or farro.
- Great as a brunch side alongside eggs and greens.
This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for make-ahead meals and buffets.