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30-Minute Seasoned Sweet Potato / Yam Fries (Baked Not Fried)

Perfectly zesty sweet potato fries to accompany veggie burgers and a ton of other dishes-- you'll love them even if you're not as big a fan of sweet potatoes!

5.0 · 11 reviewsRecipe card by the80sruleEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 15, 2026
Yam/Sweet PotatoPotatoVegetableLow ProteinVeganLow Cholesterol
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30-Minute Seasoned Sweet Potato / Yam Fries (Baked Not Fried) — a vegan Lunch/Snacks recipePin it

Total time

30 min

Servings

4

Calories

118.1

Category

Lunch/Snacks

These crispy, 30-minute seasoned sweet potato fries are the ultimate fuss-free snack for busy weeknights. Featuring a warm blend of cinnamon and white pepper, this vegan dish offers a satisfying contrast of savory and earthy flavors that kids and adults will love.

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

  • 2 sweet potatoes
  • 2 olive oil
  • 1 paprika
  • 1/2 cinnamon
  • 1/4 kosher salt
  • 1 white pepper

Method

  1. Scrub the sweet potatoes and leave the skin on (best part.).

  2. I like using a french fry cutter (it works sort of like those apple corer/slicer things) for this but if you don't have one, just use a knife to cut the potatoes into shoestrings.

  3. Put the raw fries into a mixing bowl, and pour in the olive oil. Toss well to coat.

  4. Add the seasonings and toss well again.

  5. Arrange the fries on a baking sheet and bake at 400F for 10 minutes.

  6. Turn the fries with a spatula and bake for another 10 minutes.

  7. Blot any excess oil with paper towels, serve, and enjoy!

Cook's notes

  • Keep the potato skin on to provide a structural 'crust' that helps the fries hold their shape while baking.
  • Use a French fry cutter to ensure uniform thickness; identical sizing is the secret to getting every fry golden brown at the same time.
  • Arrange the raw fries in a single layer with space between each piece to ensure they roast rather than steam in the oven.
  • The white pepper provides a mild, earthy heat that differentiates these from standard black-pepper seasoned fries.

Easy swaps

  • Instead of Olive oil, use Melted coconut oilAdds a subtle sweetness that complements the cinnamon profile.
  • Instead of Paprika, use Smoked paprikaSwap in if you prefer a deeper, wood-fired flavor profile.
  • Instead of White pepper, use Cayenne pepperUse a pinch for a sharper, spicier kick compared to the mild white pepper.
  • Instead of Kosher salt, use Sea salt flakesUse as a finishing touch after baking for a crunchier texture.

Frequently asked

Why use white pepper instead of black pepper?

White pepper has a more floral, earthy heat that integrates seamlessly with the sweetness of the yams without leaving visible black specks.

Do I need to soak the potatoes before baking?

For this 30-minute version, soaking is not required. Keeping the skin on and using a high heat of 400F will provide sufficient crispness.

Can I make these fries extra crispy?

Ensure you pat the potatoes completely dry with a towel before tossing them in oil to remove excess surface moisture.

What if I don't have a fry cutter?

Simply cut the potatoes into uniform 1/4-inch matchsticks using a sharp chef's knife; consistency is key to even cooking.

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