Maple-baked sweet potato

Maple-baked sweet potatoes combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavor of maple syrup and buttery notes, accented with fresh thyme. This simple dish is baked until tender and caramelized, making it a delightful side for any meal.

07 Dec 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

3 sweet potatos
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup butter
1 tbsp fresh thyme

Maple-baked sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious side dish perfect for any meal. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes is enhanced by the rich flavors of maple syrup and butter, while fresh thyme adds a hint of aromatic freshness. This simple yet flavorful recipe will be a hit at your dining table.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes thoroughly.
- Slice the sweet potatoes into evenly sized rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. This will ensure they cook evenly.

3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Choose a baking dish that can accommodate all the sweet potato slices in a single layer without crowding.
- Lightly grease the baking dish with a small amount of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

4. Layer the Sweet Potatoes:
- Arrange the sweet potato slices in the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly if necessary.

5. Prepare the Maple-Butter Mixture:
- In a small saucepan, melt the 1/4 cup of butter over medium-low heat.
- Once the butter has melted, add the 1/2 cup of maple syrup and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat.

6. Add Thyme:
- Strip the leaves off the fresh thyme sprigs and add them to the maple-butter mixture. Stir to incorporate.

7. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
- Pour the maple-butter-thyme mixture evenly over the arranged sweet potato slices, ensuring they are well-coated.

8. Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes.

9. Finish Baking:
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized. You can test for doneness by inserting a fork into the sweet potatoes; it should slide in easily.

10. Serve:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Transfer the maple-glazed sweet potatoes to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining glaze from the baking dish over the top.

Maple-baked sweet potatoes are a delightful addition to any menu, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and savory herbs. The combination of maple syrup, butter, and thyme creates a mouthwatering glaze that complements the natural flavor of the sweet potatoes. Enjoy this dish as a side, and it will surely become a family favorite.

Maple-baked sweet potato FAQ:

What is the baking time for maple-baked sweet potatoes?

Bake the sweet potatoes covered with aluminum foil for approximately 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C), then remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

How can I tell when the sweet potatoes are done?

The sweet potatoes are done when they are tender and a fork slides in easily. Check at the end of the baking time after uncovering the dish.

Can I make substitutions for the butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter to make this recipe dairy-free.

How should I store leftover maple-baked sweet potatoes?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

What pan size is best for this recipe?

A baking dish that accommodates all sweet potato slices in a single layer is ideal. A 9x13 inch casserole dish works well for this recipe.

Tips:

- Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and free from blemishes or sprouts for the best results.

- Cut the sweet potatoes into evenly-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.

- For a crispier texture, consider using a convection oven if available.

- Feel free to add a pinch of salt and pepper before baking to balance the sweetness.

- If you prefer a more intense flavor, add a drizzle of maple syrup halfway through the baking process.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 120kcal
Protein 1.33g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 2.51g
Sugar 3.17g
Fat 6g

Maple-baked sweet potato