Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. If you have a convection setting, use it for crisper fries.

Cut sweet potatoes

Wash and dry 2 medium sweet potatoes. Peel if desired. Cut each potato into 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick sticks so pieces are uniform for even baking. Aim for roughly 2 cups loosely packed cut fries.

Soak (optional but recommended)

Place the cut fries in a bowl of cold water and soak for 15–30 minutes. This removes excess surface starch and improves crispness. After soaking, drain and pat completely dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.

Coat fries

In a large bowl, toss the dried fries with 1 teaspoon cornstarch to help create a light crust. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and toss to evenly coat. Add 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (if using). Toss until spices are evenly distributed.

Arrange for baking

Spread the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet with space between pieces. Crowding will cause steaming and softer fries. If needed, use two sheets and rotate halfway through baking.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes, then remove the tray and flip each fry or shake the pan to turn them. Return to the oven and bake another 10–12 minutes until edges are browned and fries are crisp. Total bake time will be about 22–25 minutes depending on thickness and oven. For extra crispness, switch to broil for 1–2 minutes at the end — watch carefully to avoid burning.

Finish and serve

Remove fries from oven and immediately sprinkle with a pinch more kosher salt to taste. Toss with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley if using. Serve hot with the prepared dipping sauce or your favorite condiments.

Dipping Sauce (optional)

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon sriracha, 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon honey (if using) and 1/8 teaspoon salt until smooth. Taste and adjust heat or sweetness as desired. Chill briefly or serve immediately alongside fries.