Save I stumbled onto this gem during a desperate brunch brainstorm when my breadbox was empty but sweet potatoes overflowed from the pantry basket. The first batch emerged from the oven with these gorgeous caramelized edges, and I honestly could not believe how satisfying the texture was. My roommate walked in, raised an eyebrow at the orange slices, then immediately demanded I make her a batch. Now it is the breakfast I crave even when fresh sourdough is sitting right there on the counter.
Last autumn my sister visited and we spent an entire Sunday afternoon turning our kitchen into a sweet potato toast tasting bar. We lined up eight different toppings, took photos of every combination, and laughed until our sides hurt over the ridiculous abundance. She still texts me whenever she makes them, usually with some new topping idea I never considered.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, scrubbed: Look for ones that feel heavy and have smooth skin since thick slices hold up better during roasting
- 1 tbsp olive oil: This helps achieve those irresistible golden edges and prevents sticking
- Pinch of salt: Just enough to brighten the natural sweetness
Instructions
- Preheat and slice:
- Set your oven to 400F (200C) and cut sweet potatoes lengthwise into 1/4-inch slices, keeping them as uniform as possible
- Season the slices:
- Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt, coating each piece evenly
- Roast to perfection:
- Arrange slices in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway until fork-tender
Save My friend Sarah has celiac disease, and watching her face light up when she realized she could eat toast again was absolutely priceless. She texts me monthly with new topping discoveries, like smoked salmon with dill or almond butter with hemp seeds. This simple potato slice became something so much bigger in our kitchen.
Savory Topping Combos
The avocado and cherry tomato combo never disappoints, especially with everything bagel seasoning sprinkled on top. Cottage cheese with chives tastes surprisingly gourmet, and hummus crumbled with feta hits every satisfying salty creamy note. Hard-boiled eggs bring protein that keeps me full until lunch, while fresh herbs make everything feel fancy.
Sweet Topping Ideas
Peanut butter with banana slices feels like dessert for breakfast, especially when honey drizzles over the top. Cottage cheese pairs beautifully with berries and a maple syrup drizzle for a lighter morning option. The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potato makes any sweet topping feel indulgent without being too much.
Making It Your Own
This recipe shines because it adapts to whatever mood or ingredients you have on hand. Seasonal toppings like fresh peaches in summer or roasted pumpkin seeds in fall keep things exciting through the year. Leftover roasted vegetables or that last bit of pesto can transform into an incredible topping.
- Try finishing in the toaster for extra crispy edges if you prefer more crunch
- Mix and match toppings to create your own signature combinations
- Store roasted slices in the fridge and reheat for quick weekday breakfasts
Save These colorful toasts bring such joy to the breakfast table, and the possibilities really never end. Hope they become a staple in your kitchen like they have in mine.
Recipe FAQ
- → What toppings work best on sweet potato toast?
Savory options like mashed avocado with cherry tomatoes, cottage cheese with fresh chives, or hummus topped with crumbled feta and chili flakes create balanced flavors. For sweet variations, try peanut butter with sliced banana and granola, or cottage cheese drizzled with honey and seasonal fruit. The natural sweetness of the potato complements both rich and fresh ingredients beautifully.
- → How do I make the sweet potato slices crispy?
Slice the sweet potatoes lengthwise about 1/4-inch thick for the best texture. Brush both sides with olive oil and roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra crispiness, finish the slices in a toaster after roasting for 1-2 minutes. Let them cool slightly before topping to maintain texture.
- → Can I prepare sweet potato toast in advance?
Yes, roast the sweet potato slices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in a toaster or oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through. Add toppings just before serving for the best texture and flavor. This makes meal prep efficient for busy weekdays.
- → Is sweet potato toast suitable for special diets?
Sweet potato toast is naturally gluten-free, making it ideal for those avoiding wheat. The base is vegetarian and can easily be adapted for vegan diets by choosing plant-based toppings like hummus, avocado, or nut butters. The sweet potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium, offering more nutrients than traditional bread options.
- → What's the best way to slice sweet potatoes for toast?
Use a sharp knife to cut large sweet potatoes lengthwise into planks about 1/4-inch thick. This thickness allows the slices to roast through without becoming mushy while maintaining enough structure to hold toppings. If the sweet potatoes are very thick, consider slicing them in half horizontally first to create flat, stable surfaces that sit evenly on the baking sheet.