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Feeling a bit tired of the generic canned yams you see every Thanksgiving? These Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are so much more exciting than the marshmallow-topped tubers that you’ve been serving year after year! These stuffed sweet potatoes are so much heartier and elegant. Personally, I was never a fan of the marshmallow-topped dish in the first place…it’s just too sweet.
Thanksgiving was the original farm-to-table meal. The “original” Thanksgiving meal, celebrated between the pilgrims and natives of Plymouth featured foods that were easily grown or gathered. So this meant that the meal was bland by modern standards: corn, venison, and duck were likely all that was served. Sweet potatoes came along later and became a staple by the 1800s. Baked sweet potatoes, in particular, have evolved into a versatile dish enjoyed as a snack, side, or dessert, perfect for family gatherings and pairing with various proteins. We’re glad they’ve stuck around!
You Need More Sweet Potato Recipes
Sweet potatoes are a staple in many households, and for good reason. They’re sweet, earthy, and when cooked right, they practically melt in your mouth. One of the simplest and most delicious ways to prepare sweet potatoes is by roasting them with honey and cinnamon. This classic combination brings out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and adds a warm, comforting flavor that’s perfect for any time of the year. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of honey and cinnamon, provide tips on choosing the right sweet potatoes, and offer serving suggestions to make the most of this wonderful flavor combination.
Sweet Potato Health Benefits
Did you know sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and antioxidants? The beta-carotene, the compound that makes sweet potatoes orange much like carrots, also supports eye function. They are also rich in fiber, promoting healthy gut function. Who knew something sweet could be just as healthy as it is delicious?
Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrition, making them an excellent addition to any health-conscious culinary repertoire. Sweet potato skin is also packed with nutrients, which is why we don't use peeled sweet potatoes for this recipe. Their high fiber content supports digestion and aids in weight management, while the abundance of vitamins A and C bolsters immune function and promotes healthy vision.
Manganese found in sweet potatoes is vital for strong bones and efficient metabolism, enhancing overall physical well-being. Furthermore, these vibrant tubers are rich in antioxidants, which help mitigate the risk of chronic diseases.
For individuals managing their blood sugar levels, sweet potatoes are an ideal choice due to their low glycemic index. Whether you're crafting a wholesome meal or exploring new recipes, incorporating sweet potatoes can add both nutritional value and delightful taste to your diet.
Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes for a Honey Roasted Sweet Potato
When it comes to choosing the right sweet potatoes for roasting, there are a few things to keep in mind. Look for sweet potatoes that are firm and have smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid sweet potatoes with soft spots or bruises, as they can be more prone to rotting. You can also choose between different varieties of sweet potatoes, such as Jewel or Beauregard, which have a sweeter and softer flesh. For this recipe, we recommend using 2-3 large sweet potatoes, which will yield about 4-6 servings.
The Benefits of Honey and Cinnamon
Honey and cinnamon are a match made in heaven, and for good reason. Honey is a natural sweetener that contains antioxidants and has antibacterial properties. Cinnamon, on the other hand, has anti-inflammatory properties and can help lower blood sugar levels. Together, they create a flavor combination that’s not only delicious but also good for you. In this honey roasted sweet potato recipe, we use a mixture of honey and cinnamon to create a sticky, caramelized glaze that’s perfect for honey roasted sweet potatoes.
Try this recipe with our seasonal fall Sourwood Honey
Adding Apples to the Mix
One way to add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your roasted sweet potato is by adding apples to the mix, and this is exactly what we do in this honey roasted sweet potato recipe. Apples and sweet potatoes are a classic combination that works beautifully together. Simply peel and chop 1-2 apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) and add them to the sweet potato stuffing. The apples will caramelize from the honey and add a sweet, tangy flavor to the dish.
How to Make Stuffed Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
The first thing you’ll need to do is preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Next, gather all of the ingredients that you need for this honey roasted sweet potato recipe. Visit the market, or forage in your pantry for these ingredients:
- Sweet potatoes
- Pecans
- Butter
- Granny Smith apple
- Bee Inspired Honey
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg
- Ginger
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Heat oven to 375°F. Line cookie sheet with foil. Cut the first slice of the sweet potato off; place on covered cookie sheet. Bake 1 hour 15 minutes until fork tender sweet potatoes. Reduce temperature to 350 degrees and cook an additional 15 minutes. Let each sweet potato stand for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
Place pecans in skillet. Toast for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until nuts are light brown. Remove from skillet; set aside. Add butter to a skillet over medium heat. Add an apple in butter for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apple is tender. Stir in honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to create a honey mixture for each sweet potato. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Make & Roast Sweet Potatoes
Scoop each sweet potato out into a glass bowl; coat skins with olive oil and place back into the oven to crisp.
Add apple and spice mixture to the flesh; stir until blended. Remove the skins from the oven.
Spoon mixture into the crisp sweet potato shells. Place on cookie sheet and bake 15 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Top with toasted pecans and serve. Enjoy your delicious honey roasted sweet potato!
Adapting Honey Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Apples
There are many ways that you can make this recipe your own. Make these potatoes based on your own tastes, or better yet make a sweet potato bar where guests can build their own. We always encourage you to try to add your own twist. Here are some ideas:
- Take the dairy out and replace it with coconut milk/oil.
- Add chopped bacon to the mix for a smokey finish.
- Consider topping with your favorite grated cheese and melt.
- Make a sweet potato casserole with this recipe by blending up the sweet potato skins with with the flesh sweet potato cubes. Alternatively, leave the skin on and use cubed sweet potatoes as the base for your casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted sweet potatoes with honey and cinnamon are a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of main courses. Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:
- Serve with roasted chicken or turkey for a classic comfort food combination.
- Pair with grilled steak or pork chops for a sweet and savory flavor combination.
- These Sweet Potatoes will "cool off" our White Chicken Chili and make for a perfect match for an autumn supper.
- Add to a salad or wrap for a healthy and filling lunch.
- Serve as a side dish for a holiday meal, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
A Super Simple Dish for Fall and Winter Gatherings
Honey roasted sweet potatoes are truly a versatile and delectable dish that is sure to please anyone's taste buds. Not only do they pack a punch in terms of flavor, but they also provide numerous nutritional benefits. With the addition of a honey cinnamon mixture infused with juicy apples, this simple yet savory side dish becomes the star of any meal. And let's not forget how incredibly easy it is to make!
So why not spice up your holiday gatherings by adding these delectable honey roasted sweet potatoes to your menu? Or better yet, surprise your loved ones with this mouth-watering dish on any other occasion. Trust us, they'll thank you for it. Don't wait any longer, get those ovens preheated and whip up these flavorful sweet potatoes for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking!
We hope you enjoy this recipe for roasted sweet potatoes with honey and cinnamon! Let us know in the comments if you have any questions or if you’d like any variations on this recipe.
Explore various sweet potato recipes to find new and exciting ways to prepare and serve this versatile ingredient. Try our Sweet Potato Chili with Honey or our Healthy Mashed Sweet Potatoes.
