Scrub sweet potatoes well and pat completely dry.
Poke each potato 6–8 times all over with a fork to vent steam.
Arrange potatoes on a microwave-safe plate, spacing them apart.
Microwave on High for 5 minutes.
Flip potatoes and microwave 4–6 minutes more, until a skewer slides in easily.
Rest 2–3 minutes. Split open, fluff the flesh, and add butter, salt, cinnamon, and pepper. Drizzle maple syrup if using.