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Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet, Savory & Nutty

Sweet potatoes are already one of the most comforting vegetables, but when you roast them with butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, and crunchy walnuts, they become a dish that’s both simple and unforgettable. These Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are caramelized to perfection in the oven, with crispy edges, tender centers, and a rich glaze that balances sweetness with a touch of salt and spice. The addition of walnuts brings crunch and nuttiness, while thyme adds a subtle herby note. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall-inspired meal, this dish makes a beautiful side that feels both rustic and elegant. Serve it alongside roasted meats, poultry, or as a vegetarian centerpiece, and watch it disappear fast!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 medium sweet potatoes peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter melted
  • ⅓ cup maple syrup plus 2 tablespoons for finishing
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon thyme dried or fresh
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ⅓ cup walnuts roughly chopped

Equipment

  • Large baking sheet
  • Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Oven

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare Sweet Potatoes
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Peel and cube sweet potatoes into even 1-inch pieces for even roasting.
Step 2: Make the Maple Butter Glaze
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, ⅓ cup maple syrup, cinnamon, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Toss sweet potato cubes in the mixture until evenly coated.
Step 3: Roast the Potatoes
  1. Spread potatoes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 4: Add Walnuts & Finish
  1. After 25 minutes, sprinkle chopped walnuts over the potatoes.
  2. Drizzle with the extra 2 tablespoons of maple syrup.
  3. Roast for another 10–15 minutes, until potatoes are golden and caramelized.
Step 5: Serve
  1. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra thyme if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month; reheat in the oven for best texture.
Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed and crisped.
🥄 Variations
Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with pumpkin seeds or skip them.
Savory Twist: Add garlic powder or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Extra Sweet: Toss with dried cranberries or drizzle honey before serving.
Herb Upgrade: Swap thyme for rosemary or sage for a more savory profile.
Crispy Version: Roast at 425°F for more caramelized edges.
❓ 10 FAQs
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
Not necessarily—leaving the skin adds texture and nutrients.
Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, though yams are starchier and less sweet.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Absolutely, honey works beautifully as a substitute.
How do I keep the potatoes from getting mushy?
Roast at a high temperature and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Can I use pecans instead of walnuts?
Yes, pecans add a classic holiday flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, roast ahead, refrigerate, and reheat in the oven.
What main dishes pair best with this?
Roasted chicken, turkey, pork tenderloin, or glazed ham.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
Can I add marshmallows like sweet potato casserole?
Yes—add mini marshmallows in the last 5 minutes of roasting.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free.
🏁 Conclusion
These Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty. With tender caramelized sweet potatoes, buttery maple glaze, warm spices, and crunchy walnuts, every bite is pure comfort.
Serve them as a holiday side dish or a weeknight favorite, and you’ll have a recipe that’s as simple as it is impressive. One pan, minimal prep, maximum flavor—this is fall cooking at its best.