introduction

This recipe makes soft, sweet slices of sweet potato with a crunchy walnut and maple topping. It is easy to cook and needs few ingredients. You can leave the skin on or peel it off. Try it when you want a warm, sweet side dish. For a different potato idea, see crispy oven baked sweet potato fries.

why make this recipe

This dish is simple and fast. It uses common pantry items like butter, cinnamon, and maple syrup. The walnuts add a nice crunch and the maple makes the potatoes caramel-like. It works for weeknights and for holiday meals. If you want a full meal idea, pair it with a light wrap like sweet chili chicken wraps.

how to make Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Follow these clear steps to roast and top the sweet potatoes until they are tender and golden.

Ingredients :

3 medium sweet potatoes
⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
1.5 teaspoons cinnamon (divided)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
⅓ cup maple syrup + 2 tablespoons
⅓ cup chopped walnuts
1 teaspoon thyme

Directions :

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Clean and cut the sweet potatoes into ½-inch thick rounds. You can leave the skin on for added texture or peel it off for a smoother finish. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Season the Sweet Potatoes
In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato slices with melted butter, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly, ensuring each slice is evenly coated. Alternatively, place the ingredients in a ziplock bag, seal it, and shake to combine.
Arrange for Roasting
Lay the seasoned sweet potato slices in a single layer on a baking tray. Ensure there’s space between each slice to promote even browning. Overcrowding the pan can cause steaming instead of roasting. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, checking for fork tenderness as the baking time nears completion.
Prepare the Topping
While the sweet potatoes roast, mix the maple syrup, chopped walnuts, the remaining ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and thyme in a bowl. This topping will add a caramelized crunch to your sweet potatoes.
Add the Topping
Remove the baking tray from the oven. Top each sweet potato slice with about 1 teaspoon of the walnut and maple mixture. Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the topping caramelizes and the edges of the sweet potatoes turn golden.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve as is, or for an added layer of flavor, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.

how to serve Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Serve warm on a platter as a side dish. They pair well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a green salad. For a casual meal, place them next to wraps or sandwiches. You can also top with a little feta or fresh herbs for color. Need another simple side idea? Check this crispy oven baked sweet potato fries for more options.

how to store Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Cool completely before storing. Put leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes to keep them crisp. You can also reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.

tips to make Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Cut slices to an even ½-inch thickness so they cook the same.
Don’t crowd the pan. Leave space so pieces brown well.
Use room-temperature melted butter so it coats evenly.
Add the topping near the end so it caramelizes but does not burn.
If you like a softer top, add the maple-walnut mix earlier and cover loosely with foil for a few minutes.

variation (if any)

Add crumbled feta or goat cheese on top for a salty contrast.
Use pecans instead of walnuts.
Stir in a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
Replace thyme with rosemary for a different herb note.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Roast the sweet potatoes, cool, and store the plain slices. Make the walnut-maple topping fresh and add before reheating.

Q: Can I use frozen sweet potato slices?
A: Fresh gives the best texture, but you can try frozen. Thaw and pat dry first, then follow the same steps and check cooking time.

Q: Is there a vegan option?
A: Yes. Replace the butter with melted coconut oil or vegan butter to keep it plant-based.

Q: How can I make the topping less sweet?
A: Use less maple syrup or add a small splash of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.

Conclusion

For similar ideas and flavor notes, see these recipes: Cinnamon Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Cinnamon Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Jen Around the World, and Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes.