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There’s something about roasted sweet potatoes that just feels comforting and easy—and this version is one I come back to again and again.
These cinnamon paprika roasted sweet potato cubes are perfectly caramelized on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with warm, smoky flavor.
The combination of cinnamon and paprika might sound simple, but it creates that perfect balance of sweet and savory that works with just about any meal.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can make it in the air fryer for a quick side dish or roast it in the oven when you’re cooking for a crowd. With either method, I like to prep my basket or sheet pan with aluminum foil to allow for easy clean up.
Leaving the skin on adds texture (and saves time), and with just a handful of pantry ingredients, you get a side dish that feels both wholesome and a little elevated.
Pair this healthy sweet potato side dish with my cast iron salmon, grilled flank steak or grilled chicken kebobs.
Recipe Tips for These Cinnamon Paprika Sweet Potatoes
- Cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized cubes so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket or baking sheet—this helps them crisp instead of steam.
- Toss well with olive oil to ensure even coating and better caramelization.
- Flip or shake halfway through cooking for even browning.
- If you like extra crisp edges, let them cook a few minutes longer at the end.
Variations to this Sweet Potato Cubes Recipe
I love to switch up the seasonings for this recipe depending on the main dish.
- Maple Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes: Add a light drizzle of maple syrup before cooking
- Spicy Sweet Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder
- Garlic Herb Version: Skip cinnamon and add garlic powder and dried thyme
- Smoky Blend: Use smoked paprika for deeper flavor
- Savory Finish: Sprinkle with a little Parmesan after roasting
Frequently Asked Questions for the Best Sweet Potato Cubes
Do you have to peel sweet potatoes before roasting?
No, the skin adds texture and nutrients. Just scrub them well before cutting.
How do you get crispy roasted sweet potatoes?
Make sure they’re not overcrowded and that they’re coated evenly with oil. High heat helps, too.
Air fryer or oven—which is better?
Both work great. The air fryer is faster and gives crisp edges, while the oven is better for larger batches.
What’s the difference between sweet potatoes and yams?
Most “yams” sold in U.S. grocery stores are actually sweet potatoes. True yams are starchier and less sweet.
Serving Ideas
These sweet potatoes pair well with so many dishes. Serve them alongside these delicious main dishes.
- Crispy Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Beef Brisket in the Oven
- Baby Back Ribs Recipe
- Slow Cooker Apple Cider Chicken Recipe
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Easy Roasted Sweet Potato Cubes with Cinnamon and Paprika
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 2 –3 sweet potatoes skin on, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Air Fryer Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Place the sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
- Air fry for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy on the edges and tender inside.
Oven Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread evenly on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
Notes
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