Sometimes life calls for salty fries, but other times you just want fries that taste like dessert pretending to be a side dish. Enter baked sweet potato fries dusted in cinnamon sugar. They’re crispy, caramelized, and just sweet enough to make you forget about ordering takeout.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
First off, it’s fries… but make it cozy. The cinnamon-sugar coating gives you those fairground funnel cake vibes, but without the deep fryer and grease hangover. Second, they’re baked, not fried, so you can trick yourself into thinking they’re “healthy-ish.” And last, they’re dangerously easy. Slice, toss, bake, sprinkle. Done.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted coconut oil for a hint of tropical flair)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the sweet potatoes into evenly sized fries (thin is better for crispiness).
- Toss the fries in olive oil, making sure every piece gets coated.
- Spread fries in a single layer on the baking sheet—crowding is the enemy of crisp.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until edges are golden brown.
- In a small bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Sprinkle over fries while they’re still hot.
- Optional: drizzle with honey or maple syrup for sticky-sweet magic.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cutting fries too thick: Thick fries = soggy fries. Go thin and uniform.
- Skipping the flip: Turn them halfway or one side will crisp while the other sulks.
- Overloading the pan: If the fries can’t breathe, they won’t crisp. Use two sheets if needed.
Alternatives & Substitutions
- Swap cinnamon sugar for pumpkin spice mix if you’re feeling festive.
- Use brown sugar instead of white for a deeper, caramel-y sweetness.
- Want savory instead? Skip the sugar and toss them with garlic powder, paprika, and parmesan.
FAQ
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
Do I have to peel the sweet potatoes?
Not at all. The skin gets nice and crispy if you leave it on.
How do I make them crispier?
Soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes before baking, then pat dry. Extra starch removal = extra crunch.
Can I use yams instead?
Yes, but they’re usually softer and won’t crisp quite the same.
How do I store leftovers?
Fries are best fresh, but if you must, reheat in the oven at 400°F for 10 minutes. Don’t microwave unless you like sad, limp fries.
Final Thoughts
Baked sweet potato fries with cinnamon sugar are the ultimate “why not?” snack. They’re sweet, a little crispy, and feel fancy without any actual effort. Perfect for dessert, a fun side dish, or even a midnight snack when you want something warm and comforting without dirtying half your kitchen.