How to Create Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a delicious alternative to regular potato fries. They’re healthier, colorful, and packed with flavor! However, when making sweet potato fries at home, many people struggle to make them crispy without frying. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll show you how to make crispy baked sweet potato fries easily using simple steps and common kitchen tools.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get started, gather these ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for a gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon of paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Tools You’ll Need
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A large mixing bowl
- A baking sheet
- Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat
- An oven
Got everything ready? Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Baking at a high temperature is the key to crispy fries. Higher heat ensures the edges get golden and crunchy while the insides stay soft.
Step 2: Wash and Peel the Sweet Potatoes
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrition, or peel them if you prefer smoother fries.
Step 3: Cut into Thin Strips
Use a sharp knife to cut your sweet potatoes into thin fry-shaped strips. Aim for slices that are about 1/4-inch thick. Uniform size is crucial because it helps the fries cook evenly. If some pieces are too thick, they’ll stay soft while thinner ones might burn.
Pro tip: If you’re hesitant about cutting sweet potatoes (they can be tough to slice!), microwave them for 1-2 minutes to soften slightly before cutting.
Step 4: Soak the Slices
Soaking is an important step for crispy fries! Place your sweet potato slices in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch, which can make fries soggy instead of crispy. After soaking, drain the water and pat the slices dry with a clean towel or paper towels.
Step 5: Toss with Cornstarch
Cornstarch is the secret ingredient that makes baked sweet potato fries crispy! Add your dry sweet potato slices to a large bowl and sprinkle them with cornstarch. Toss gently until the fries are coated in a thin, even layer. Don’t overdo it—too much cornstarch can lead to a powdery texture.
Step 6: Add Oil and Seasonings
Drizzle the olive oil over the cornstarch-coated fries and toss them again. The oil helps crisp up the exterior and enhances flavor. Next, sprinkle your desired seasonings—paprika for a smoky touch, garlic powder for zest, or just salt and black pepper for a classic taste. Mix well to evenly coat all the fries.
Step 7: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat to keep the fries from sticking. Spread the sweet potato fries out in a single layer on the sheet. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded—space between each piece is crucial for even baking and crispiness.
If you’re making a large batch, use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.
Step 8: Bake and Flip
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. After this time, carefully flip the fries using a spatula. Flipping ensures they cook evenly. Return them to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy.
Keep an eye on them during the final minutes, as sweet potato fries can quickly go from perfectly crispy to burnt!
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once done, remove the fries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This cooling time allows them to firm up and get even crispier. Sprinkle a little extra salt if desired, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce—ketchup, ranch, or even spicy sriracha mayo.
Tips for Success
- Keep the oven hot: Don’t lower the temperature or open the door too often while baking.
- Avoid overcrowding: Fries need space to crisp up, so use multiple baking sheets if necessary.
- Experiment with flavors: Add chili powder for a kick, or cinnamon for a sweet twist.
Enjoy Your Homemade Crispy Sweet Potato Fries!
Making crispy baked sweet potato fries at home doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple steps—soaking the slices, using cornstarch, and baking at high heat—you’ll end up with perfectly crispy fries every time. They’re healthier than store-bought versions and packed with natural sweetness. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, a side dish, or even a party appetizer, your family and friends will love them.
So grab some sweet potatoes and start cooking today!
