If you are craving a snack that perfectly balances sweetness, warmth, and a touch of spice, then you absolutely must try the Sweet Potato Fries with Honey and Spices Recipe. This dish transforms humble sweet potatoes into irresistible fries coated with a golden honey glaze and a blend of aromatic spices. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these fries not only satisfy your craving for something savory and sweet but also bring a vibrant pop of color to your plate. It’s a recipe that’s easy enough for any weeknight and special enough to impress your guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sweet Potato Fries with Honey and Spices Recipe keeps things simple but packs a flavorful punch. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color—essential for fries that are both crispy and irresistibly glazed.
- 2 sweet potatoes: The star of the dish, providing natural sweetness and a vibrant orange hue.
- 2 tbsp grapeseed oil: Perfect for roasting due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
- ¼ cup honey: Adds a luscious sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze; maple syrup makes a great vegan alternative.
- 1 tsp blackened seasoning: Gives a smoky, spicy kick to balance the honey’s sweetness.
- 2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the fries with savory depth and warmth.
- 2 tsp dried basil: Offers a subtle herby note that complements the spices beautifully.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Adds earthy undertones and a hint of smokiness.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, vibrant garnish to brighten the dish visually and in flavor.
How to Make Sweet Potato Fries with Honey and Spices Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 425°F. This high temperature is key for getting those fries nice and crispy on the outside while keeping the insides tender and fluffy.
Step 2: Cut the Sweet Potatoes
Slice your sweet potatoes into thick matchsticks between ¼ and ½ inch. By cutting them this way, you ensure they bake evenly and maintain a perfect fry shape that’s easy to crisp up.
Step 3: Coat with Oil and Honey
Drizzle the sweet potato matchsticks with grapeseed oil and the honey. Toss them well so every piece is lightly coated—this sticky mixture helps the fries caramelize beautifully in the oven.
Step 4: Toss with Spices
Generously sprinkle the blackened seasoning, garlic powder, dried basil, and ground cumin over the fries. Toss again to distribute the spices evenly, ensuring each fry bursts with flavor.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Lay the fries out on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid crowding them so each fry has enough space to crisp up instead of steaming.
Step 6: Bake the Fries
Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the fries to promote even cooking. Continue baking for another 15 minutes or until they reach your desired level of crispness.
Step 7: Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness
If you like your fries extra crispy, switch your oven to broil and bake for an additional 2 to 4 minutes. Watch them closely to prevent burning and get the perfect golden-brown edges.
Step 8: Final Touches
Remove the fries from the oven and drizzle with a little more honey to amplify the sweet glaze. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh burst of color and flavor before serving. Now they’re ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Sweet Potato Fries with Honey and Spices Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Sweet Potato Fries with Honey and Spices Recipe, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a lovely vibrant color and freshness that contrast the rich sweetness perfectly. You can also add a light dusting of smoked paprika or a pinch of flaky sea salt for an extra flavor boost.
Side Dishes
These fries are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with many dishes. Serve them alongside juicy grilled chicken, a fresh garden salad, or even a spicy black bean burger to balance the sweet and spiced notes. They’re guaranteed to become the star side dish at your table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these fries in small parchment-lined baskets or rustic wooden boards, perfect for casual gatherings. You can also offer a selection of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, chipotle mayo, or a tangy yogurt dip to turn this treat into a full appetizer experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Sweet Potato Fries with Honey and Spices Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Spread them out when reheating to keep as much crispness as possible.
Freezing
While these fries are best fresh, you can freeze them after they’re fully cooked and cooled. Place fries on a baking sheet individually and freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen for best texture.
Reheating
To bring your fries back to life, reheat in a 400°F oven for about 10 minutes or until crispy. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to make these fries soggy rather than crisp.
FAQs
Can I use other types of oil instead of grapeseed oil?
Absolutely! Grapeseed oil is favored for its high smoke point, but vegetable, peanut, or even avocado oils work well and won’t overpower the flavors.
Is there a vegan option for the honey?
Yes! Maple syrup is a fantastic vegan substitute for honey that provides similar sweetness and works perfectly with the spice blend.
How do I ensure my sweet potato fries get crispy?
Cut fries to a uniform size, avoid overcrowding the pan, and bake at a high temperature. Flipping halfway and optionally broiling at the end also help achieve crispiness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses only sweet potatoes, spices, and honey, which contain no gluten.
What can I dip these fries in?
They’re delicious with garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, chipotle mayo, or even a simple Greek yogurt and herb dip for a refreshing complement.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and delightful about the Sweet Potato Fries with Honey and Spices Recipe that you just can’t resist making it again and again. Whether you want a satisfying snack or a stunning side dish, these fries bring warmth, flavor, and a little bit of magic to your table. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite you’ll want to share with everyone you love.
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Sweet Potato Fries with Honey and Spices Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Deliciously crispy and naturally sweet baked sweet potato fries, tossed in a blend of aromatic spices and lightly coated with honey and grapeseed oil. These fries are a perfect healthy alternative to traditional ones, offering a wonderful balance of sweetness, spice, and a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Fries
- 2 sweet potatoes (cut into ¼–½ inch matchsticks)
- 2 tbsp grapeseed oil (or vegetable or peanut oil)
- ¼ cup honey (plus more for drizzling; use maple syrup for vegan option)
Seasoning
- 1 tsp blackened seasoning
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F to prepare for baking the fries.
- Cut Sweet Potatoes: Cut the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise, place the flat side down, then slice into thick matchsticks about ¼-½ inch wide for even cooking.
- Coat with Oil and Honey: Drizzle the cut sweet potatoes with grapeseed oil and honey, tossing well to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
- Add Seasonings: Toss the sweet potato fries with blackened seasoning, garlic powder, dried basil, and ground cumin until well combined.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they do not touch for maximum crispiness. You may need to bake in batches.
- Bake First Side: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to start cooking the fries.
- Flip Fries: Carefully turn the fries over to the other side to ensure even baking.
- Bake Second Side: Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: Optional step: Turn the broiler on for 2-4 minutes while closely watching so the fries don’t burn, for an extra crispy finish.
- Finish and Serve: Remove fries from oven, drizzle with more honey if desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Cut sweet potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy cleanup.
- For vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure crispy fries—bake in batches if needed.
- Keep a close eye when broiling to avoid burning.
- Leftover fries can be reheated in the oven to crisp them up again.
