Sweet Potato Chips with Cranberry Sauce

If you’re craving a healthy, delicious snack that’s both satisfying and easy to make, these sweet potato chips with cranberry sauce are exactly what you need. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a cozy night in, or looking for a nutritious treat, this recipe has you covered. The crispy texture of the sweet potato chips paired with the tangy sweetness of homemade cranberry sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors. Not only are these chips a nutrient-dense snack, but they’re also rich in antioxidants from both the sweet potatoes and cranberries, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Ready to make a healthy snack that everyone will love? Let’s dive into this simple, versatile recipe that’s sure to impress!

Key Benefits

Why choose sweet potato chips with cranberry sauce over your usual snack? Here’s why this recipe is not only tasty but also a nutritious choice that you’ll feel good about.

• Rich in Nutrients: Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, vitamin A, and potassium, making them a perfect base for a healthy snack. They’re not just a treat for your taste buds they support gut health and help maintain healthy skin.
• Antioxidant Power: The cranberry sauce adds a burst of antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system and protect against inflammation. Combined with sweet potatoes, this snack becomes a superfood duo.
• Naturally Low in Calories: If you’re looking for a low-calorie snack, this is a winner. Baked rather than fried, these chips offer all the crispy crunch you crave without the extra calories.
• Versatile and Customizable: Whether you prefer your chips sweet or savory, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can experiment with seasonings or even add a pinch of cinnamon or chili flakes to make it your own.

Ingredients

Now that you’re excited about making these sweet potato chips with cranberry sauce, let’s gather everything you’ll need. This recipe is simple, with a handful of ingredients that deliver big on flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

For the Sweet Potato Chips:

• 2 large sweet potatoes – Look for firm, smooth potatoes. If you prefer a sweeter taste, go for the orange variety; they’ll caramelize beautifully when baked.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – This helps the chips crisp up in the oven. Feel free to swap for avocado oil if you prefer.
• 1 teaspoon sea salt – To bring out the natural sweetness of the potatoes and enhance the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A subtle hint of spice to balance the sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) – If you’re in the mood for a hint of warmth, cinnamon adds a lovely depth of flavor that complements the sweetness.

For the Cranberry Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries – If you’re using frozen cranberries, make sure to thaw them first.
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup – To sweeten the sauce naturally. You can use honey or agave syrup if preferred.
• 1 tablespoon orange juice – This adds a refreshing citrusy zing that brightens up the sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A pinch of cinnamon will tie the flavors together and add a cozy vibe to the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – For a subtle, warm undertone that pairs perfectly with both the cranberries and the sweet potatoes.

Pro Tips:

• Slicing the Sweet Potatoes: For even cooking, slice your sweet potatoes as thinly as possible. A mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform slices, ensuring that each chip is perfectly crispy.
• Crispiness: If you prefer extra-crispy chips, make sure to lay the slices in a single layer on your baking sheet. Overcrowding the tray will lead to soggy chips.
• Sweet vs. Savory: Experiment with seasonings! For a savory twist, try adding garlic powder or paprika to the chips, or make your cranberry sauce more savory by stirring in a touch of balsamic vinegar.

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is as simple as it is delicious, and you’ll have your sweet potato chips with cranberry sauce ready in no time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato Chips

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your chips bake evenly and become crispy.
2. Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin, or leave it on for added texture and nutrients.
3. Slice the sweet potatoes thinly (about 1/8-inch thick). The thinner the slice, the crispier the chips! A mandoline slicer works great for this, but a sharp knife will do the trick as well.
4. Toss the sweet potato slices in olive oil, making sure each slice is lightly coated. This helps with crisping while adding flavor.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if using). Toss again to evenly distribute the seasonings.

Step 2: Bake the Chips

1. Place the slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.Be sure not to overcrowd them this allows the heat to circulate properly and ensures each chip crisps up.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning the chips halfway through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as baking times can vary depending on your oven and slice thickness. The chips should be golden and crisp when done.

Step 3: Prepare the Cranberry Sauce

1. While the chips are baking, combine the cranberries, maple syrup, orange juice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will start to break down, and the sauce will thicken to a syrupy consistency. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a splash of water to loosen it up.
3. Once it’s done, remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Once your sweet potato chips are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Serve the chips with the cranberry sauce on the side for dipping, or drizzle the sauce over the chips for a more decadent touch.
3. Enjoy the crispy, slightly sweet chips with the tangy cranberry sauce the perfect balance of flavors in every bite!

For an extra pop of flavor, garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before serving. These herbs complement both the sweet potatoes and the cranberry sauce beautifully!

Pro Tips and Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, let’s take your sweet potato chips with cranberry sauce to the next level! Here are a few pro tips and variations to make this recipe your own and adapt it to your taste:

Pro Tips for Perfect Chips:

• Slice Thin and Even: For chips that bake evenly and crisp up perfectly, try to slice the sweet potatoes as uniformly as possible. A mandoline slicer is your best friend for achieving consistent thickness, ensuring all your chips cook at the same rate.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: When arranging the sweet potato slices on the baking sheet, be sure they’re in a single layer with a bit of space between each slice. Overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of crisping up.
• Flip for Even Crisping: Halfway through the baking time, flip each chip. This will help them crisp evenly on both sides and give you that golden-brown perfection we all crave.

Variations to Try:

• Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, try adding chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sweet potato slices before baking. It’s the perfect balance of heat and sweetness!
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs to your chips for an earthy twist. Rosemary and thyme are especially delicious and pair beautifully with the sweet potatoes. Toss the herbs in with the oil before coating the chips.
• Air Fryer Alternative: In a hurry? Use your air fryer to make these chips! Simply preheat it to 375°F, toss the sweet potato slices in oil and seasoning, and air fry for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You’ll get crispy chips in no time with less oil!

Cranberry Sauce Variations:

• Add a Zing: If you’re a fan of tangy flavors, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to your cranberry sauce. It enhances the sauce’s depth and balances the sweetness with a savory twist.
• Maple and Cinnamon: For a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of maple syrup or stir in extra cinnamon. This gives the sauce a cozy, autumnal flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet potato chips.
• Smooth vs. Chunky: If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the cranberry sauce after cooking to get a silky, velvety consistency. For a chunkier sauce, simply mash the cranberries with a spoon and leave it more rustic.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve made your sweet potato chips with cranberry sauce, it’s time to serve them up in style! This recipe is wonderfully versatile, perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are a few serving ideas to enhance your dish:

As an Appetizer or Snack:

• Party Platter: These chips make an excellent addition to any party platter. Pair them with a few dips such as guacamole, hummus, or even a creamy cheese dip for a crowd-pleasing snack that will disappear in no time!
• Healthy Snack: Looking for a guilt-free, satisfying snack? The crispy sweet potatoes paired with the tangy cranberry sauce make for a nutrient-packed treat. They’re perfect for a mid-afternoon bite or as an appetizer before dinner.

As a Side Dish:

With Grilled Vegetables: Serve these chips alongside grilled veggies, like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The crisp, caramelized flavors of the chips make a great contrast to the smoky taste of the grilled vegetables.

For Holiday Meals:

Thanksgiving or Christmas: These sweet potato chips are a fantastic addition to your holiday spread. Serve them as a unique side or appetizer alongside traditional dishes like roast turkey or stuffing. The cranberry sauce brings in a festive touch, perfect for these occasions.

Potluck Parties: Need a dish for a potluck? These chips are a hit at any gathering, offering a healthy yet indulgent option that stands out from typical party snacks.

For a Salad Topping:

Add Crunch to Your Salad: Crumble up some of these crispy chips and sprinkle them on top of your favorite salad. The sweet and savory combination adds a delightful crunch and an unexpected twist to your greens.

Congratulations, you’ve just made a batch of crispy sweet potato chips with cranberry sauce! Not only is this recipe an absolute treat for your taste buds, but it’s also a healthy snack that’s packed with nutrients and flavor. Whether you’ve baked them for a gathering, a family dinner, or just as a personal indulgence, these chips are bound to impress.

Next time you’re in the kitchen craving something crispy, sweet, and savory, give these sweet potato chips with cranberry sauce a try you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients can come together to create something so memorable. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!

FAQs

Here are some quick answers to your frequently asked questions about sweet potato chips with cranberry sauce:

1. Is it possible to prepare these chips in advance?

Yes! Store the chips in an airtight container for up to two days. To refresh, heat them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes. The cranberry sauce can be kept in the fridge for up to a week.

2. How do I make the chips extra crispy?

• Slice sweet potatoes thin and evenly.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
• Flip halfway through baking for even crisping.

3. Can I substitute with a different type of potato?

Yes! You can try regular potatoes or purple sweet potatoes, but they may cook differently, so adjust accordingly.

4. What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?

Try pomegranate or raspberry sauce, or make a quick homemade cranberry dip using frozen cranberries, honey, and orange juice.

5. Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, it’s both vegan and gluten-free as long as your ingredients are suitable.

6. Can I use an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

7. How should I store leftover cranberry sauce?

Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months.

Got more questions? Feel free to ask in the comments!

If you enjoyed these Sweet Potato Chips with Cranberry Sauce, be sure to check out our Discover Italian penicillin soup for the perfect Seder meal combination!