Description
Learn the simple method for baking sweet potatoes until the inside is perfectly fluffy and the skin is slightly crisp. This recipe focuses on achieving the best texture with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water. Scrub the skins well to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
- Prick each sweet potato deeply several times all over using a fork. This allows steam to escape and prevents bursting.
- Rub the exterior of each potato with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with salt and pepper.
- Place the prepared potatoes directly onto the foil-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 45 to 60 minutes. Cooking time depends on the size of your potatoes. They are done when the skin is slightly wrinkled and a fork easily pierces the center.
- While the potatoes bake, prepare the cinnamon butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until fully combined.
- Carefully remove the potatoes from the oven. Slice each potato lengthwise down the center, being careful not to cut all the way through the bottom. Gently squeeze the ends to open them up.
- Place a spoonful of the cinnamon butter mixture inside each hot potato. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra crispy skin, place the potatoes directly on the oven rack instead of on a baking sheet, placing the sheet underneath to catch any drips.
- If you prefer a savory topping, skip the cinnamon butter and top with sour cream, chives, and shredded cheese.
- For meal prep, bake the potatoes ahead of time and store them whole in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 60 min
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 55
- Fiber: 8
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 35