Oh my gosh, you have to try these air fryer sweet potato fries with cinnamon! They’re my absolute go-to when I want something crispy, slightly sweet, and ridiculously easy. I swear, the first time I made them, my kids went nuts—they couldn’t believe fries could taste this good and still be kinda healthy. The secret? That perfect balance of cinnamon warmth and the air fryer’s magic, which crisps them up without drowning them in oil. Trust me, once you’ve had these, regular fries just won’t cut it. And the best part? They’re ready in under 20 minutes—no oven preheating, no fuss. Just golden, crunchy perfection every time.
Oh my gosh, you have to try these air fryer easy sweet potato fries cinnamon style! They’re my absolute go-to when I want something crispy, slightly sweet, and ridiculously simple. I swear, the first time I made these, my kitchen smelled like a cozy fall day – that perfect mix of caramelized sweet potatoes and warm cinnamon. The best part? No deep frying mess! Just toss, air fry, and boom – you’ve got golden, crispy fries with the most delicious hint of spice. My kids beg for these weekly (shh…I don’t tell them how healthy they are), and honestly? I never get tired of that satisfying crunch.
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Easy Sweet Potato Fries Cinnamon
Listen, I don’t just make these sweet potato fries because they’re delicious (though wow, are they ever). They’ve become my secret weapon for so many reasons – let me count the ways:
- Crazy quick: From fridge to plate in under 25 minutes – no waiting for the oven to preheat!
- Perfect crispness: That air fryer magic gives you fries with that irresistible crunch without being greasy.
- Actually good for you: Sweet potatoes pack nutrients, and we’re using just a tablespoon of oil for the whole batch.
- Minimal cleanup: One bowl for tossing, one air fryer basket – that’s it. My kind of cooking!
- Kid-approved: The cinnamon makes them taste like a treat, but shh – we know they’re getting veggies.
Honestly? I’ve served these to picky eaters, health nuts, and food snobs – everyone comes back for seconds. That’s when you know you’ve got a winner.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Easy Sweet Potato Fries Cinnamon
Here’s the beautiful part – you only need four simple ingredients to make magic happen. But trust me, each one plays a crucial role in creating those perfect crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside fries:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes – peeled and cut into ¼-inch thick fries (this thickness is key – too thin and they’ll burn, too thick and they won’t crisp up)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – just enough to help the spices stick and promote browning without making them greasy
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – my secret weapon that makes these taste like dessert (but we’ll keep calling them a side dish)
- ½ teaspoon salt – don’t skip this! It balances the sweetness perfectly
Quick tip from my many (many) batches: Take an extra minute to cut your fries as evenly as possible. I learned the hard way that uneven pieces mean some fries are burnt while others are still raw in the middle. A mandoline slicer makes this super easy if you have one!
How to Make Air Fryer Easy Sweet Potato Fries Cinnamon
Okay, here’s where the magic happens! I’ve made this recipe so many times I could probably do it in my sleep, but let me walk you through each step because those little details make all the difference between “meh” fries and “oh wow” fries.
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
First things first – grab those sweet potatoes and give them a good peel. I know some folks skip this, but trust me, peeling helps them crisp up better. Now, here’s my pro tip: after cutting them into those perfect ¼-inch fries (I like to do mine about 3 inches long), pat them dry with paper towels. Any extra moisture is the enemy of crispiness! I learned this the hard way when I got a batch of soggy fries – never again.
Step 2: Seasoning the Fries
Now for the fun part! Toss those beautiful orange fries in a big bowl with the olive oil first – this helps the spices stick better. Then sprinkle over your cinnamon and salt. My trick? I use my hands to massage everything in – you get way more even coverage than with a spoon. The fries should look lightly coated but not drenched – if they’re glistening with oil, you’ve probably used too much.
Step 3: Air Frying
Preheat that air fryer to 380°F – this little step makes a big difference in getting that initial crisp. Arrange your fries in a single layer – no stacking! They need their personal space to get crispy. I usually cook mine for about 12-15 minutes total, but here’s the crucial part: shake that basket like you mean it at the halfway mark! This ensures even cooking and prevents any sad, stuck-together fries. When they’re done, they should be golden with slightly darkened edges and make a satisfying “tap” sound when you knock them together.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Easy Sweet Potato Fries Cinnamon
After making these fries more times than I can count (seriously, my family won’t let me stop), I’ve picked up some tricks that’ll guarantee perfect results every time:
- Give them space! Overcrowding is the #1 reason fries come out soggy. If needed, cook in batches – it’s worth the wait.
- Size matters: Thicker fries? Add 2-3 minutes. Super thin? Check at 10 minutes. I keep a kitchen timer nearby because they go from perfect to burnt fast!
- Serve immediately: These taste best piping hot from the air fryer – the cinnamon scent is heavenly, and that crispiness fades fast.
- Shake it up: Don’t just peek – give that basket a proper shake halfway through. I do a little dance while shaking mine (optional but fun).
- Trust the tap test: Done fries sound hollow when tapped together. If they just squish, give them another minute.
Remember – even “imperfect” batches still taste amazing. My first try was a mess, but now? I’m the sweet potato fry queen in my house!
Variations for Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
While I’m obsessed with the cinnamon version, sometimes I like to mix things up! Here are my favorite twists that keep this recipe exciting:
- Savory spice: Swap cinnamon for smoked paprika and garlic powder – gives them a totally different vibe that pairs perfectly with burgers.
- Sweet heat: Add a pinch of cayenne to the cinnamon for fries that are sweet, spicy, and impossible to stop eating.
- Honey drizzle: Right after cooking, drizzle with warm honey and sprinkle flaky salt – it’s dessert-worthy!
- Everything bagel: Toss with everything bagel seasoning for the ultimate savory crunch.
My kids love when I let them create their own seasoning blends – it’s our favorite way to make dinner fun!
Serving Suggestions
These cinnamon sweet potato fries are crazy versatile – I’ve served them with everything from weeknight dinners to fancy brunches! Here are my favorite ways to enjoy them:
- Burger night: They’re the perfect side to juicy burgers – the sweet-spicy fries cut through the richness beautifully.
- Grilled chicken: Swap out boring roasted potatoes – these add a fun twist to your usual protein.
- Dippable delight: Whip up a quick yogurt sauce (Greek yogurt + lemon + garlic) for dunking – the cool tang complements the cinnamon so well.
- Breakfast bonus: Top with a fried egg and avocado for the most epic sweet-and-savory breakfast bowl.
Honestly? They’re so good I’ve eaten them straight from the air fryer basket – no judgement if you do too!
Storage & Reheating
Okay, let’s be real – these fries are best fresh, but if you somehow have leftovers (happens about once a year in my house), here’s how to handle them. First, let them cool completely (hot fries in a container = instant sogginess). Then stash them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to revive them, skip the microwave – that’ll just make them sad and soft. Instead, pop them back in the air fryer at 380°F for 3-5 minutes. They won’t be *quite* as perfect as fresh, but that air fryer magic brings back most of the crisp. Pro tip: give the container a shake halfway through reheating to ensure even warming!
Nutritional Information
Now, I’m no nutritionist, but I can tell you these air fryer sweet potato fries are way better for you than deep-fried versions! Since we’re only using a tablespoon of oil for the whole batch and letting the air fryer do the magic, you’re getting all that crispy goodness without the grease. Sweet potatoes themselves pack a nutritional punch – they’re loaded with vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. The cinnamon adds flavor without any extra calories too!
Important note: The exact nutrition will vary based on your specific ingredients (especially the size of your sweet potatoes and the brand of oil you use). But generally speaking, you’re looking at a snack or side dish that’s satisfying without being heavy. I love that I can enjoy these without guilt – though I have to admit, sometimes I eat enough that it becomes a meal!
Remember, this is home cooking, not lab-tested food – your batch might have slightly more or less of any given nutrient. But that’s the beauty of real food, right? It’s nourishing and delicious without needing to count every gram.
FAQ
Can I omit the cinnamon?
Absolutely! While I adore the warm, sweet touch it adds, these fries work great with other seasonings too. Try smoked paprika for a savory twist or go simple with just salt and pepper. The air fryer method will still give you that perfect crispiness regardless of seasoning.
Why are my fries coming out soggy?
Ah, the dreaded sogginess! Usually it’s one of three things: overcrowding the basket (give them space!), not patting the sweet potatoes dry enough before cooking (moisture is the enemy of crisp), or skipping the preheating step. My golden rule? Single layer, dry potatoes, hot air fryer – that’s the crispy fry trifecta!
Can I use frozen sweet potato fries instead?
You sure can, though they won’t have that fresh flavor. If using frozen, skip the oil (they’re already coated) and add cinnamon after cooking. Cook time may vary – start checking at 10 minutes. But trust me, fresh is worth the extra peeling and cutting!
How do I prevent the fries from sticking to the basket?
A quick spritz of oil on the basket before adding fries helps. Also, don’t forget to shake that basket halfway! If some still stick, let them cool for a minute before removing – they’ll release easier. I keep a silicone spatula handy just in case.
Can I make these in a regular oven?
Yes, but they won’t get quite as crispy. Bake at 425°F on a parchment-lined sheet, flipping halfway through (about 20-25 minutes total). The air fryer’s rapid air circulation really makes these shine though – if you have one, use it!
There you have it – all my hard-won fry wisdom! Now go forth and make the crispiest, cinnamoniest sweet potato fries of your life. And when you do? Tag me or leave a comment – I live for seeing your kitchen wins (and we can troubleshoot any fry fails together too)!
Print
Crispy Air Fryer Easy Sweet Potato Fries Cinnamon in Just 15 Minutes
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy sweet potato fries with a hint of cinnamon, made easily in your air fryer.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- Toss sweet potato fries with olive oil, cinnamon, and salt.
- Place fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Cut fries evenly for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Adjust cooking time based on fry thickness.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American