Are you ready to enjoy a tasty twist on a classic snack? Cinnamon sugar sweet potato fries combine sweet and savory in every crispy bite. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that’s perfect for any time of day. Let’s dive into the easy steps that will help you impress your friends and family. Get your potatoes, and let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Sweetness: The combination of cinnamon and sugar brings out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, making these fries irresistibly tasty.
- Healthier Alternative: These baked sweet potato fries are a nutritious alternative to traditional fries, packed with vitamins and fiber.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or side dish.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the cinnamon and sugar ratio or add spices to suit your taste, making it a versatile recipe.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Cooking spray
Recommended Equipment
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Large bowl
– Small bowl
Nutrition Information
– Calories per serving: Approximately 180
– Macronutrient breakdown:
– Carbohydrates: 38g
– Protein: 2g
– Fat: 7g
– Fiber: 5g
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
First, peel the sweet potatoes. This step is key. Then, cut them into thin fries. Aim for uniform sizes. This helps them cook evenly. Next, place the cut fries in a large bowl. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over them. Toss the fries well until they are coated. You want them shiny, not greasy.
Making the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt to balance the flavors. If you like a bit of heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Mix well to blend all the spices. Taste it. If you want it sweeter, add more sugar. If you want more spice, add more cinnamon.
Baking the Fries
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray it with cooking spray. This helps with sticking. Spread the sweet potato fries on the sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer. Do not let them overlap. This step is crucial for crispiness. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Flip the fries halfway through. They should turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, take them out and let cool for a few minutes. For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit more cinnamon sugar on top.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Crispy Fries
To get crispy fries, space them out on the baking sheet. If you crowd them, they will steam instead of crisp up. Aim for one even layer. Flipping the fries halfway through baking helps them cook evenly. Use a spatula to turn them gently for a nice brown color on all sides.
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost the flavor of your fries with more spices. Try adding nutmeg, ginger, or even vanilla. If you want a savory twist, mix in some garlic powder or smoked paprika. You can also switch things up by using less sugar for a more savory take.
Presentation Ideas
Serve your fries in a fun way. Use a colorful plate or a basket lined with parchment paper. Drizzle them with a bit of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness. For dipping, try a creamy yogurt sauce or a spicy ketchup. These options can make your fries even more enjoyable!
Pro Tips
- Cut Evenly: Make sure to cut the sweet potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Soak for Crispiness: Soaking the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking can help achieve a crispier texture.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon and cayenne pepper according to your taste preferences for a personalized flavor.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Variations
Spicy Cinnamon Sugar Fries
You can make your sweet potato fries spicy. Just add chili powder or paprika to the cinnamon sugar mix. This gives a nice kick and balances the sweetness. Start with a small amount. You can always add more if you want extra heat. The spice adds fun to each bite.
Vegan Alternatives
You can make these fries vegan by switching a few things. Instead of olive oil, use avocado oil or melted coconut oil. The cinnamon sugar mix stays the same, so that part is easy. Check your sugar too. Some brands use bone char in the processing. Look for vegan sugar to keep it plant-based.
Sweet Potato Fries with Different Flavors
Want to try different flavors? Use maple syrup or honey instead of granulated sugar. Drizzle it on the fries before baking. This gives a unique taste. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top after baking. This contrast of sweet and salty will wow your taste buds.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Fries
To keep your fries fresh, let them cool down. Place the sweet potato fries in an airtight container. This will help keep them crispy. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider other options.
Reheating Tips
The best way to reheat your fries is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the fries on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 10 minutes. This will help them regain their crispiness. You can also use an air fryer. Just heat it to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes.
Freezing Sweet Potato Fries
You can freeze sweet potato fries for longer storage. To do this, lay the uncooked fries on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until they are firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can also freeze fully cooked fries, but they may lose some crispiness. To use frozen fries, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make these fries in an air fryer?
Yes, you can make cinnamon sugar sweet potato fries in an air fryer. Here’s how:
– Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
– Toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil and cinnamon sugar as you normally would.
– Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
– Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
– Check for crispiness and adjust the time as needed.
Using an air fryer gives you a crunchy texture with less oil. It’s a great option for a quick snack!
What can I serve with cinnamon sugar sweet potato fries?
These fries pair well with many dishes. Here are some tasty ideas:
– Serve with a side of creamy yogurt dip.
– Try a sweet honey mustard sauce for a fun twist.
– Pair with fresh fruit for a sweet and savory combo.
– Enjoy with roasted chicken or pork for a complete meal.
These options will enhance your snack and make it more delightful!
How can I make these fries healthier?
You can make these fries healthier with a few simple changes:
– Use less sugar in the cinnamon sugar mix.
– Swap granulated sugar for a natural sweetener like maple syrup.
– Reduce the amount of olive oil or use a spray for light coating.
– Bake instead of frying to cut extra calories.
These tweaks keep the flavor while making the fries a bit lighter!
You can make delicious cinnamon sugar sweet potato fries by following these steps. We reviewed the key ingredients, recommended equipment, and nutrition facts. I also shared tips for crispy fries and fun variations.
These tasty fries are easy to prepare and fun to eat. Whether you make them sweet or spicy, they will delight your taste buds. Remember to store leftovers properly so you can enjoy them later. Happy cookin
