Description
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp maple syrup
¼ tsp cinnamon
Salt and black pepper to taste
¼ cup crumbled goat cheese
¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
Fresh thyme (for garnish, optional)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Toss the sweet potato cubes in olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Spread them evenly on the baking sheet.
Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Once roasted, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
Top each sweet potato bite with a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese and chopped walnuts.
Garnish with fresh thyme, if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your sweet and savory appetizer!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: 180 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Maple Roasted Sweet Potato Bites every time.
- Prep & Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a standard baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Cube Consistently: Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking, so some pieces aren’t raw while others burn.
- Season Thoroughly: In a large bowl, combine the sweet potato cubes with 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp maple syrup, ¼ tsp cinnamon, and salt and pepper. Toss vigorously until every cube is evenly and generously coated.
- Roast with Space: Spread the cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded. Overcrowding steams the potatoes instead of roasting them.
- Flip for Caramelization: Roast for 20-25 minutes, but pause at the 12-minute mark. Use a spatula to carefully flip each cube. This promotes all-around browning and caramelization.
- Cool & Assemble: Remove the tray when the potatoes are fork-tender and caramelized at the edges. Let them cool for 5 minutes—this prevents the goat cheese from melting completely. Transfer to a serving platter, then top with goat cheese, walnuts, and thyme.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile bites are perfect as a warm appetizer on a shared platter. For a light lunch, serve them over a bed of baby arugula with a simple lemon vinaigrette. They also make an excellent holiday side dish alongside roasted turkey or ham. For a dairy-free version, substitute the goat cheese with a drizzle of tahini or a sprinkle of dairy-free feta.
How-to Summary
Cube sweet potatoes, toss with oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. Cool slightly, then top with crumbled goat cheese, toasted walnuts, and fresh thyme.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can roast the sweet potatoes up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes before adding toppings.
What’s the best way to toast walnuts? Place chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. Feta cheese offers a similar tangy profile, while blue cheese provides a stronger flavor. For a milder taste, try ricotta salata or shaved Parmesan.
Why are my sweet potatoes soggy? Sogginess is usually caused by overcrowding the pan or skipping the step of flipping them halfway. Ensure cubes are spaced out and flipped for perfect caramelization.
Is there a substitute for maple syrup? Honey or agave nectar can be used in a 1:1 ratio. The flavor will vary slightly but will still provide the desired sweet glaze.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uneven Cubes: Cutting cubes to different sizes leads to inconsistent cooking.
- Skipping the Flip: Not flipping halfway through roasting prevents even browning.
- Adding Cheese Too Soon: Topping with goat cheese straight from the oven causes it to melt into a mess instead of holding its shape.
- Using Raw Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts is crucial for unlocking their nutty flavor and adding crunch.
Conclusion
These Maple Roasted Sweet Potato Bites are a simple yet elegant dish that masterfully balances sweet and savory flavors. With minimal prep and common ingredients, they are a foolproof choice for impressing guests or elevating a weeknight meal. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a delicious, visually appealing appetizer that’s sure to become a favorite.