To bake whole sweet potatoes, the typical baking time is about 45 minutes to 1 hour at around 400°F to 450°F (204°C to 232°C), depending on their size. You should prick the sweet potatoes with a fork before baking to allow steam to escape. The sweet potatoes are done when their skin is crisp, and they can be easily pierced with a fork or knife
. Here are some detailed guidelines:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) or 450°F (232°C).
- Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and prick them several times with a fork.
- Place them directly on a baking sheet or oven rack (no foil wrapping to keep the skin crispy).
- Bake for 40 to 60 minutes until tender and easily pierced.
- Larger potatoes may take closer to 1 hour; smaller ones about 40-45 minutes.
- For faster cooking, you can slice them in half lengthwise and bake cut side down for about 30-40 minutes
If you want to speed up the process while still achieving a caramelized skin, some recommend microwaving the sweet potatoes first for 6-9 minutes, then finishing in the oven at 400°F for about 1 hour
. In summary, expect about 45 minutes to 1 hour for whole baked sweet potatoes at 400-450°F, adjusting time based on size and whether they are whole or halved.
