The Best Roasted Apples and Sweet Potatoes

I’ve been making Roasted Apples and Sweet Potatoes every autumn for years now, and it never fails to fill my kitchen with the most wonderful smells.

The sweet potatoes turn golden and slightly caramelized while the apples soften just enough to hold their shape. It’s one of those simple combinations that just works.

Why I turn to this Roasted Apples when I need something quick

This recipe saves me every time I’m hosting dinner and need something special without the fuss. The whole dish comes together in one pan, which means less cleanup for me and more time with my family.

You can prep everything ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when your guests arrive. I love how the maple syrup creates these beautiful caramelized edges that everyone always asks about.

I often pair this with my easy crispy cinnamon apple fries for dessert, or serve it alongside the best snickers caramel apple salad for a complete autumn feast.

Ingredients for Roasted Apples and Sweet Potatoes Recipe

• 3 medium sweet potatoes (about 5 cups cubed) – Orange-fleshed is my favorite, but purple or white are just as lovely
• 3 large apples (about 3 cups cubed) – Honeycrisp or Gala bring sweetness; Granny Smith adds a tart edge
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted and divided – Swap with coconut or avocado oil if you prefer
• 1¼ teaspoons sea salt – Essential for balancing and enhancing natural sweetness
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup – Use real maple syrup for the best flavor; honey works in a pinch
• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon – Freshly ground really shines here

How I Make This Roasted Apples and Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Wash and cube the sweet potatoes into ¾-inch pieces, leaving the skin on for extra nutrients and texture. In a large bowl, toss them with 3 tablespoons of melted butter and 1 teaspoon of salt until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Roast for 18 minutes, stirring once halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges start turning golden.
4. While the sweet potatoes roast, core and cube your apples into similar-sized pieces. In the same bowl, combine the apples with the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, and remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt. Toss until everything is well coated.
5. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and add the seasoned apples directly to the baking sheet. Gently stir everything together and spread back into an even layer.
6. Return to the oven for another 20-22 minutes, stirring once more at the halfway point. The sweet potatoes should be fork-tender and the apples should be soft but still hold their shape. The maple syrup will have caramelized beautifully around the edges.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve immediately while everything is still warm and fragrant.

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My personal tricks for the best Roasted Apples and Sweet Potatoes

The key to perfect results is giving the sweet potatoes a head start since they need more time to cook through than the apples. This prevents you from ending up with mushy apples or undercooked potatoes.

I always cut everything into uniform pieces so everything cooks evenly. Don’t overcrowd your pan either – if you need to use two baking sheets, that’s perfectly fine.

Roasted Apples and Sweet Potatoes taste best when served fresh from the oven, but you can reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore some of that lovely texture.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For the best texture, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave, which can make them soggy.

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Can I freeze this dish?

While you technically can freeze it, I don’t recommend it. The apples tend to get mushy when thawed and reheated, and the sweet potatoes lose their appealing texture.

What other spices work well?

Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or even a tiny bit of cayenne for warmth. Fresh thyme or rosemary also pair beautifully with this combination.

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How this Roasted Apples and Sweet Potatoes fits into my weekly meals

This side dish has become my go-to for Sunday dinners when the whole family gathers around the table. The kids love the natural sweetness, and I love how it feels both cozy and nutritious.

I’ve also started making it for potluck dinners and holiday gatherings. It travels well and always gets compliments from friends who ask for the recipe.