Description
Delight in the sweet and savory flavors of these Maple Walnut Goat Cheese Roasted Sweet Potatoes. Tender roasted sweet potato slices are coated with cinnamon and butter, then topped with a luscious maple-walnut mixture and creamy goat cheese, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. This dish is ideal for a cozy side or a flavorful vegetarian treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Sweet Potatoes
- 3 medium sweet potatoes
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Maple Walnut Topping
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)
- 1/3 cup goat cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly. You may peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients. Slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds for even roasting.
- Coat the Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with melted unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated. Use a spatula, your hands, or a ziplock bag to help mix thoroughly.
- Arrange on Baking Tray: Spread the coated sweet potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking tray. Ensure there is space between slices so they roast evenly and become slightly crisp on the edges.
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Roast in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and slightly golden on the edges.
- Prepare the Maple Walnut Topping: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, mix maple syrup, chopped walnuts, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and fresh thyme in a small bowl until combined. This mixture will add sweetness and a nutty aroma.
- Top the Sweet Potatoes: Once roasted, remove the sweet potatoes from the oven. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the maple-walnut topping onto each slice, then sprinkle crumbled goat cheese evenly over the top.
- Final Baking: Return the baking tray to the oven and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes to toast the walnuts slightly and soften the goat cheese, enhancing the flavors and textures.
- Serve Warm: Serve the roasted sweet potatoes warm, optionally garnishing with extra fresh thyme for a fragrant and fresh touch. Enjoy as a side dish or a light vegetarian meal.
Notes
- You can peel the sweet potatoes if you prefer a smoother texture, but the skin adds a nice rustic touch and extra nutrients.
- For extra crunch, toast the walnuts separately before mixing them with the maple syrup.
- If you want a vegan version, substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Make sure to spread sweet potato slices in a single layer for even roasting and to prevent sogginess.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon and maple syrup to your taste preferences for sweetness and spice.
