Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Sweet Potatoes
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Sweet Potatoes, a classic winter dish that will quickly become a favorite at your family table. These tender, naturally sweet tubers are transformed into a delightful treat with a drizzle of rich melted butter and a decadent sprinkle of brown sugar and cinnamon. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any meal, offering a delicious and nutritious side that can be prepared in advance. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a scrumptious dish that highlights the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, making it a perfect accompaniment for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. Double the recipe to share with a larger crowd, and bask in the warmth and flavor that this dish brings during cold winter months.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
sweet potatoes
2 (large, washed)
butter
4 (tablespoons, melted)
brown sugar
4 (tablespoons)
cinnamon
1 (teaspoon)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. Do not peel them.
3
Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with aluminum foil for easy clean-up, then place the sweet potatoes in the pan.
4
Bake the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are fork-tender (this may vary based on their size).
5
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the sweet potatoes to cool slightly. Carefully slice each potato in half lengthwise.
6
You can choose to leave the skins on or carefully scoop out the flesh.
7
Drizzle melted butter over each half of the sweet potato.
8
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle this mixture generously over the sweet potatoes.
9
Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for baking these sweet potatoes.
How long do Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Sweet Potatoes take to cook?
They typically take between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the potatoes.
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes before baking?
No, you should wash them thoroughly and pat them dry but leave the skins on while baking.
How can I tell when the sweet potatoes are finished cooking?
The sweet potatoes are done when they are fork-tender all the way through.
Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, yams can be used as a substitute in this recipe as they have a similar texture and sweetness.
What is the purpose of the aluminum foil?
Lining the 9x9 inch baking pan with aluminum foil is recommended for easy clean-up after baking.
How do I prepare the topping?
In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, then sprinkle it over the buttered potatoes.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil.
Should I slice the potatoes before or after baking?
You should bake them whole and then slice them in half lengthwise once they have cooled slightly after baking.
Can I eat the skin of the sweet potato?
Yes, the skin is edible and contains nutrients, but you can also choose to scoop out the flesh and discard the skin.
Is it okay to use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
While you can use white sugar, brown sugar is preferred for its deep molasses flavor which pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
How many sweet potatoes does this recipe require?
This specific recipe is written for 2 large sweet potatoes.
Can I prepare these sweet potatoes in advance?
Yes, they can be baked ahead of time and reheated when you are ready to serve.
What size baking pan should I use?
A 9x9 inch baking pan is the ideal size for two large sweet potatoes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients—sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon—are naturally gluten-free.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover sweet potatoes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze baked sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
How do I reheat the sweet potatoes?
Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warm, or use a microwave for a quicker option.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts make a delicious and crunchy addition to the cinnamon-sugar topping.
Is this a side dish or a dessert?
It is versatile enough to be served as a sweet side dish or even as a healthy dessert.
What should I serve with these sweet potatoes?
They pair excellently with roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or pork, especially during winter holidays.
Do I need to poke holes in the potatoes before baking?
While not explicitly mentioned in the instructions, pricking the skin with a fork can help steam escape during the long baking process.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, salted butter provides a nice contrast to the sweet sugar and cinnamon, but unsalted butter works fine too.
What if my sweet potatoes are smaller than 'large'?
If using smaller potatoes, check for doneness after 1 hour to ensure they don't overcook.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely, simply use more potatoes and adjust the amounts of butter, sugar, and cinnamon accordingly.
Can I use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar?
Yes, liquid sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can be drizzled over the potatoes for a different flavor profile.
Is cinnamon the only spice I can use?
No, you can also add a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or cloves for extra warmth.
Why must I pat the potatoes dry after washing?
Drying them ensures that the skin bakes properly rather than steaming, which improves the texture.
Can I mash the flesh after baking?
Yes, you can scoop the flesh into a bowl, mash it with the butter and spices, and serve it 'mashed style'.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, the natural sweetness and soft texture make it a very kid-friendly dish.