Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly oil them. Position rack in the middle of the oven; if using two sheets, place one rack in upper-middle and one in lower-middle and rotate halfway through baking.

Cut sweet potatoes

Wash and dry the sweet potatoes. Peel if desired. Cut the sweet potatoes into even 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick batons (fries). Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly. You should end up with roughly 2 cups of cut fries from 2 large sweet potatoes.

Soak (optional but recommended)

Place cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and soak for 20–30 minutes to remove excess starch. This improves crispness. If short on time, you may skip soaking but expect slightly softer fries.

Dry and toss with cornstarch

Drain the fries and pat them thoroughly dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Transfer to a large bowl and sprinkle the cornstarch over the fries; toss gently until pieces are evenly coated. The cornstarch creates a light crispy coating when baked.

Season and oil

Add the olive oil, kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper to the bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly so each fry is lightly coated in oil and spices. If using two baking sheets, divide fries evenly between them, arranging in a single layer with space between pieces (crowding steams them).

Bake

Spread fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet(s). Bake for 20 minutes, then use a spatula to flip and rotate the pans (switch top/bottom if using two). Continue baking for another 10–15 minutes until edges are browned and fries are crisp. Total bake time will be 30–35 minutes depending on thickness and oven. Watch closely during the last 5 minutes to prevent burning.

Finish and serve

When fries are crisp and golden, remove from the oven. Immediately sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and an extra pinch of salt if needed. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over for brightness.

Dipping Sauce (optional)

Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning or sweetness. Chill for 10 minutes if time allows. Serve alongside hot sweet potato fries.