Golden Sweet Potato Skewers with Feta, Walnuts & Sticky Cranberry Maple
Golden Sweet Potato Skewers with Feta, Walnuts and Sticky Cranberry Maple are a beautiful mix of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors that feel both comforting and a little special. Roasted sweet potato cubes develop caramelized edges and a soft interior, creating a rich base for creamy feta and crunchy toasted walnuts. A glossy cranberry maple drizzle adds brightness and gentle sweetness that balances the earthy vegetables perfectly. These skewers work well as a festive appetizer, a vibrant side dish, or even a plant-based centerpiece alongside grains and fresh salads. They are simple to prepare yet visually impressive, making them ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday spreads, or casual gatherings when you want something colorful and satisfying without complicated steps.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: about 40–45 minutes
Servings: 4 (about 8–10 skewers)
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Skewers
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Sticky Cranberry Maple Drizzle
1/2 cup cranberry sauce
3 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon water or orange juice
For the Toppings & Garnish
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/3 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place sweet potato cubes in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
Add salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Toss well until evenly coated.
Spread cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet to encourage caramelization.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender inside and golden on the edges.
While potatoes roast, combine cranberry sauce, maple syrup, and water or orange juice in a small saucepan.
Simmer over low heat for 3–5 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened into a sticky glaze.
Thread roasted sweet potato cubes onto skewers once cool enough to handle.
Arrange skewers on a serving platter and drizzle generously with warm cranberry maple sauce.
Finish with crumbled feta, toasted walnuts, and fresh herbs before serving.
Tips
Cut cubes evenly to ensure consistent cooking and texture.
Use sturdy skewers or soak wooden skewers in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning.
Roast at high heat to bring out natural sweetness and caramelized edges.
Avoid overcrowding the pan so vegetables roast instead of steam.
Toast walnuts in a dry skillet for a richer flavor.
Adjust glaze thickness with extra liquid if it becomes too thick.
Add feta after skewering so it stays crumbly and fresh.
Let roasted potatoes cool slightly before skewering to avoid breaking.
Taste glaze and adjust sweetness or tanginess to preference.
Serve warm for best texture and flavor balance.
Variations
Add cubes of roasted red onion or bell pepper to the skewers for color.
Replace feta with goat cheese for a creamier texture.
Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or pistachios.
Add a pinch of chili flakes to the glaze for subtle heat.
Use balsamic glaze instead of cranberry sauce for a savory twist.
Include roasted zucchini or mushrooms between sweet potato pieces.
Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra crunch.
Serve over cooked quinoa or couscous to turn into a full meal.
Mix fresh rosemary into the seasoning for a more aromatic profile.
Add orange zest to the glaze for a brighter citrus flavor.
Q&A
Can I grill instead of roast?
Yes, grill skewered sweet potatoes over medium heat until tender and lightly charred.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Roast potatoes and prepare glaze earlier, then assemble before serving.
How do I keep potatoes from sticking?
Use parchment paper or lightly grease the pan.
Can I use canned cranberry sauce?
Yes, both homemade and canned work well.
Are these vegetarian?
Yes, as long as the feta used is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make them vegan?
Omit feta or use plant-based cheese.
How long do leftovers last?
Store refrigerated up to 3 days.
How should I reheat?
Warm in the oven or air fryer to keep edges slightly crisp.
What dishes pair well?
Roasted chicken, grilled fish, or hearty grain salads.
Can I freeze them?
Roasted sweet potatoes can be frozen, though texture may soften slightly.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 260–300
Protein: 6–8 g
Carbohydrates: 35–40 g
Fiber: 5–6 g
Fat: 12–15 g
Sugar: 14–18 g
Sodium: about 400–450 mg depending on feta and seasoning
Conclusion
Golden Sweet Potato Skewers with Feta, Walnuts and Sticky Cranberry Maple combine bold flavors and satisfying textures in a dish that feels both comforting and visually impressive. Caramelized sweet potatoes offer natural sweetness, while feta and toasted walnuts provide richness and crunch. The glossy cranberry maple drizzle ties everything together with a balanced sweet and tangy finish. Easy to customize and simple to prepare, these skewers are perfect for appetizers, sides, or festive gatherings. Whether served warm from the oven or assembled for a party platter, they deliver a beautiful blend of flavor and color that makes any meal feel a little more special.