Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature is essential for achieving that lovely caramelization on the sweet potatoes, so don’t skip this step!
Grab a large mixing bowl and place the cut sweet potatoes inside. Drizzle with olive oil, just enough to coat but not drown them. Toss the potatoes gently to ensure they’re evenly coated.
Add the brown sugar, salt, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper to the bowl. The spices will create a magical combination that enhances the flavor profile of the sweet potatoes.
Stir everything together until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the oil and spices. Make sure each piece is well-covered so that every bite bursts with flavor.
Next, spread the sweet potatoes out on a large rimmed baking sheet in a single layer. This allows them to roast properly and develop that desired crispy texture.
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. The potatoes will start to soften and the edges will become slightly caramelized.
After 15 minutes, take the baking sheet out and give the sweet potatoes a good stir. This ensures even cooking and browning. Return them to the oven.
Bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes; you want them to be tender and golden brown, but not burnt. They should be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the sweet potatoes cool slightly before serving. You can sprinkle them with fresh herbs if desired for an extra touch of flavor.