Name: Maple Walnut Sweet Potatoes with Thyme
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 medium sweet potatoes; ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter; 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (divided); ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ⅓ cup maple syrup + 2 tablespoons (divided); ⅓ cup chopped walnuts; 1 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme

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There’s something undeniably comforting about roasted sweet potatoes. When they’re coated in butter, sprinkled with cinnamon, and topped with a sweet, crunchy maple walnut mixture, they transform into a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. This recipe brings warmth and elegance to your table, perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

Maple Walnut Sweet Potatoes with Thyme

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish hits all the right notes: tender and naturally sweet sweet potatoes roasted to perfection, paired with the earthy depth of thyme and the delightful crunch of maple-glazed walnuts. The subtle cinnamon ties everything together with cozy spice, creating a harmony of flavors that feel like a hug on a plate. Plus, it’s easy to make and versatile enough to complement a wide range of meals.

Ingredients

Tip: You can find the full ingredients and measurements list in the recipe card below.

For the Sweet Potatoes

3 medium sweet potatoes
⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (divided)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping

⅓ cup maple syrup + 2 tablespoons (divided)
⅓ cup chopped walnuts
1 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Wash and slice the sweet potatoes into ½-inch rounds. Peel if preferred, or leave skin on for texture.
In a bowl, toss sweet potato slices with melted butter, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding to ensure they roast rather than steam.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until tender and lightly browned.
While baking, combine maple syrup, chopped walnuts, remaining cinnamon, and thyme in a small bowl.
Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven, spoon about 1 teaspoon of the walnut topping on each slice.
Return to the oven for 8–10 minutes until the topping caramelizes and the edges crisp up.
Let cool slightly and serve. Optionally, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy contrast.

Variations

Swap butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine to make it dairy-free.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds based on your preference.
Mix fresh rosemary instead of thyme for a different herbaceous note.

Heating and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For the best texture, reheat in the oven to keep the topping crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen sweet potato slices?

Frozen sweet potato slices can be used but may release extra moisture, potentially affecting the crispiness. Fresh is preferred for best results.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and topping separately and combine them just before the final bake to maintain freshness.

How do I prevent the topping from burning?

Keep an eye on the topping during the last 8–10 minutes of baking. If it browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients.

What’s the best type of sweet potato for this recipe?

Firm-fleshed varieties like Jewel or Garnet sweet potatoes hold up well during roasting.

Can I substitute maple syrup with honey?

Yes, honey works well as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze these sweet potatoes?

It’s not recommended as freezing may alter texture, especially the crispy topping.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

To make it vegan, swap butter with plant-based oil or margarine.

Can I add other nuts or seeds?

Yes, feel free to experiment with pecans, almonds, or pumpkin seeds for variety.

Conclusion

Maple walnut sweet potatoes with thyme are a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures that make a memorable side dish. Easy to prepare yet impressive in flavor, this recipe will become a staple whether it’s for family dinners or special occasions. The balance of warmth from cinnamon and thyme paired with the richness of maple and walnuts creates an inviting dish you’ll want to make again and again.