Cinnamon Butter Baked Sweet Potato

Few side dishes capture the essence of comfort food quite like Cinnamon Butter Baked Sweet Potatoes. With their naturally sweet flavor, tender texture, and the rich warmth of cinnamon-spiced butter, they bring a touch of indulgence to any meal. Each bite offers a balance of caramelized edges and melt-in-your-mouth softness, making it a crowd-pleaser for both weeknight dinners and festive holiday tables.

What makes this dish truly special is its simplicity paired with deep flavor. The sweet potatoes are roasted until golden and slightly crisp, then tossed with a luscious cinnamon butter glaze that coats every chunk in a glossy, spiced finish. Whether you're serving them alongside roasted chicken, grilled tofu, or as part of a brunch spread, these sweet potatoes are a guaranteed hit.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Butter Baked Sweet Potato Recipe

• Sweet and savory flavor with minimal ingredients
• Crispy on the outside, buttery soft on the inside
• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian
• Perfect for holidays or easy weeknight dinners
• Scales well for large groups

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the perfect Cinnamon Butter Baked Sweet Potatoes, you don’t need fancy tools—just the right ones that get the job done efficiently.

• Sharp Chef’s Knife – Essential for slicing the sweet potatoes into uniform cubes, ensuring even cooking.
• Vegetable Peeler – While optional (you can keep the skins on), a peeler helps you achieve a smoother texture.
• Mixing Bowl – For coating the sweet potatoes with oil and seasoning evenly.
• Baking Sheet – A large, rimmed baking sheet allows for even roasting and prevents overcrowding, which is key for crispiness.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat – Keeps the sweet potatoes from sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
• Small Saucepan – For melting and combining the cinnamon butter glaze without burning it.

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Preparation Tips

Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and free from blemishes. Cut them into evenly sized cubes to promote uniform roasting—too small and they’ll burn, too large and they’ll be undercooked. Toss them thoroughly in oil before baking to help them crisp. Don't skip flipping them halfway through roasting for golden edges. Lastly, adding the cinnamon butter glaze just after baking keeps the texture perfect and prevents the butter from burning in the oven.

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Ingredients for this Cinnamon Butter Baked Sweet Potato Recipe

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for added depth)
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• Chopped pecans or fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

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Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel the sweet potatoes if desired, then cut them into even 1-inch cubes. This size ensures that they cook evenly and caramelize well.

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Step 2: Season and Toss

Place the sweet potato cubes into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss until evenly coated. Make sure each piece is lightly but thoroughly covered in oil to help promote browning.

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Step 3: Arrange and Roast

Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a parchment-lined or silicone-mat-lined baking sheet. Avoid crowding the pan; use two trays if needed. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are fork-tender and edges are caramelized.

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Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Butter Glaze

While the sweet potatoes are roasting, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add in the cinnamon, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and nutmeg (if using). Stir continuously until everything is combined into a smooth glaze. Remove from heat once the sugar has fully dissolved.

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Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, transfer them to a large bowl. Drizzle the warm cinnamon butter glaze over the potatoes and gently toss to coat. Serve immediately while hot, and garnish with optional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of fresh thyme if desired.

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Notes

Cinnamon Butter Baked Sweet Potatoes work beautifully with both sweet and savory meals. Their soft texture and spiced glaze make them a perfect side dish for roasted meats, holiday feasts, or even as a warm addition to fall salads. For a lighter version, you can reduce the butter and sugar slightly without losing the comforting flavor. If you prefer a vegan version, swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the pan: This prevents the sweet potatoes from roasting properly and can lead to steaming instead of caramelizing.
• Skipping the toss: Not coating the cubes evenly with oil or the cinnamon glaze can lead to uneven flavor.
• Cutting uneven pieces: Different-sized cubes will cook at different rates, leading to some burnt and some undercooked pieces.
• Adding glaze too early: Baking the potatoes with the glaze on can cause the sugars to burn; add it only after baking.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain their texture. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but note that they may become softer. These potatoes do not freeze well due to the butter glaze.

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Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup

• Calories: 210
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Sugars: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Cholesterol: 20mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sweet potatoes should I use?

Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, like garnet or jewel varieties, work best for their natural sweetness and creamy texture.

Can I leave the skins on?

Absolutely. The skins add texture and nutrients. Just scrub them well before chopping.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Not as written, but it’s easy to make vegan by using plant-based butter and ensuring your sugar is vegan.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, roast the potatoes and store them separately from the glaze. Reheat and toss with the glaze just before serving.

What can I use instead of cinnamon?

Pumpkin spice or a mix of nutmeg and allspice can be a delicious variation.

Can I use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar?

Yes, but add it after roasting to avoid burning.

Do I need to parboil the potatoes first?

No, roasting raw cubes gives the best caramelization.

How can I make them crispier?

Make sure they are well spaced on the tray and roasted at a high enough heat without overcrowding.

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Conclusion

Cinnamon Butter Baked Sweet Potatoes are a warm, comforting dish that’s both versatile and indulgent. Whether you're prepping them for a holiday spread or an everyday dinner, this recipe is simple to follow, full of flavor, and a guaranteed favorite on any table. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to sweet potato side dish.

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