As I wandered through the bustling aisles of the local market, the unmistakable scent of sweet potatoes caught my attention, instantly transporting me to cherished holiday gatherings. The magic that unfolds when you transform these vibrant tubers into Classic Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes is nothing short of remarkable. Imagine tender slices enveloped in a rich, caramel-like sauce that glistens as it bakes to perfection—a dish that captures the essence of comfort food.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner, these candied sweet potatoes are not just a side dish; they are a celebration of flavors that everyone will adore. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that warms both the heart and the palate. Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe—you’ll be glad you did!
Why are Candied Sweet Potatoes a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor: Each bite of these candied sweet potatoes is a delightful mix of sweetness and spice, enhanced with cinnamon and nutmeg.
Harmony of tastes: The rich, caramel-like sauce perfectly complements the tender sweet potatoes, creating a crowd-pleasing dish that shines at any gathering.
Effortlessly simple: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can easily whip up this recipe, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Versatile delight: Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner, these sweet potatoes elevate any meal with their warmth and flavor.
Time-saving magic: Prep ahead by making the glaze in advance; it reduces cooking time during busy holidays, letting you focus on the festivities.
Prepare to fall in love with comfort food at its finest—explore more holiday side dishes that complement your main courses beautifully!
Candied Sweet Potatoes Ingredients
• Get ready to create the perfect holiday side dish!
For the Sweet Potatoes
- Sweet Potatoes – Choose 4-5 medium-sized sweet potatoes for natural sweetness; peel and slice them 1/2 inch thick.
- Salt – Use ½ teaspoon to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
For the Sauce
- Butter – ½ cup of unsalted butter adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- Brown Sugar – Use ¾ cup packed for a deep caramel flavor; coconut sugar can be a great substitute.
- White Sugar – ½ cup aids in sweetness and caramelization; this can be adjusted to suit your taste.
- Cinnamon – Add 1 teaspoon for warmth and spice, with nutmeg as an optional substitute for variety.
- Nutmeg – ½ teaspoon complements the dish with earthy notes, optional for those who prefer less complexity.
- Orange Juice – Use 2 tablespoons to brighten the sauce’s flavors; lemon juice makes a delightful tangy substitute.
Feel free to whip up these candied sweet potatoes, a dish that embodies the spirit of Southern cuisine, and enjoy the comforting taste they’ll bring to your table!
How to Make Candied Sweet Potatoes
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to allow those sweet potatoes to caramelize beautifully.
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Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into even 1/2 inch rounds. This helps them cook uniformly and absorb that delicious sauce!
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Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden and bubbly. The buttery aroma is just the beginning of the magic!
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Stir in the brown and white sugar until smooth. This creates a lovely caramel sauce that will coat your sweet potatoes perfectly.
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Add cinnamon and nutmeg, mixing well to incorporate those warm, fragrant spices. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
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Remove from heat and gently mix in the orange juice. This brightens the sauce, adding a fresh zing to each savory-sweet bite.
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Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer. Make sure they’re cozy together for even cooking.
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Sprinkle salt evenly over the sweet potatoes. This enhances their natural sweetness and brings balance to the dish.
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Drizzle the sauce over the sweet potatoes, ensuring each slice is coated. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent browning and bake for 40-45 minutes until tender. Check with a fork for that perfect softness!
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Cool briefly before serving. This allows the flavors to set, ensuring each bite is as delicious as can be.
Optional: Top with chopped pecans for a delightful crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Candied Sweet Potatoes?
Create a delightful spread that enhances the warmth and flavor of your sweet potatoes.
- Roast Chicken: The juicy, savory meat pairs perfectly with the sweet, caramelized notes of the potatoes, creating a balance that pleases every palate.
- Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans with toasted almonds offer a fresh and crunchy contrast, complementing the sweetness of your dish beautifully.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: These sweet, tender carrots harmonize with candied sweet potatoes, enhancing the meal’s overall warmth and festive spirit.
- Baked Ham: A glazed ham with its smoky, savory profile pairs harmoniously with the sweet potatoes, making it a classic combination for holiday dinners.
- Cornbread: Serve with a side of warm, buttery cornbread to soak up the delectable sauce from the sweet potatoes, bringing Southern charm to your table.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness, adding a refreshing note that heightens the flavors of the feast.
- Refreshing Salad: A simple arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of candied sweet potatoes.
- Sparkling Cider: Celebrate with a chilled glass of sparkling cider. Its effervescent nature enhances the experience, making every meal feel like a special occasion.
- Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, a slice of pumpkin pie offers a familiar, sweet finish, tying together the comforting flavors of the meal beautifully.
- Pecan Pie: Finish off your gathering with a slice of nutty, caramel-rich pecan pie for a delightful sweetness that resonates with the candied potatoes.
Expert Tips for Candied Sweet Potatoes
• Uniform Slices: Ensure that the sweet potatoes are sliced consistently to promote even cooking and avoid some parts being undercooked while others become mushy.
• Watch the Time: Be careful not to overbake the sweet potatoes. Start testing for tenderness with a fork at around 40 minutes to achieve that perfect texture.
• Make-Ahead Glaze: Consider preparing the glaze ahead of time and refrigerating it. This will save you precious minutes during busy holiday kitchen moments.
• Sugar Adjustments: Taste your sauce after mixing the sugars. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking; remember, it should complement the natural flavor of the candied sweet potatoes, not overpower it.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to try alternative spices like ginger or allspice. They can provide a lovely twist on the classic flavor profile, adding depth to your dish.
Candied Sweet Potatoes Variations
Time to unleash your creativity! These candied sweet potatoes can be personalized in so many delicious ways.
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Maple Sweetness: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a deep and unique flavor profile. The hint of maple perfectly complements the sweet potatoes.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts before baking to add a delightful crunch and nuttiness that contrasts beautifully with the soft sweet potatoes.
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Spiced Twist: Experiment with adding a touch of ground ginger or allspice to the sauce. These spices will invite a warm and comforting aroma to your kitchen.
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Tangy Zing: Replace orange juice with fresh lemon juice for a zesty contrast. The acidity brightens the sweetness, giving your dish a whole new dimension.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream after melting the butter to create a richer, velvety sauce that makes each bite decadently creamy.
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Coconut Delight: Substitute half of the butter with coconut oil for a tropical twist. This change not only enhances flavor but also adds a subtle hint of coconut.
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Heat Factor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a sweet and spicy kick. It’s a bold twist that balances sweetness with heat.
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Herb Infusion: Infuse the butter with fresh rosemary or thyme before adding the sugars for an aromatic surprise that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
How to Store and Freeze Candied Sweet Potatoes
Fridge: Keep leftover candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are cooled completely to retain their texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze candied sweet potatoes in a well-sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can add a splash of orange juice to refresh the sauce if needed.
Avoid Moisture: Always ensure your storage container is airtight to prevent moisture from making the sweet potatoes soggy; this helps maintain that delightful caramel-like sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sweet potato slices and the caramel sauce up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, peel and slice your sweet potatoes, then layer them in a baking dish. Prepare the sauce by melting the butter and mixing in the sugars, spices, and orange juice, then refrigerate it separately to keep the flavors fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply drizzle the chilled sauce over the sweet potatoes, cover with foil, and bake as directed. This method ensures the sweet potatoes remain tender and bursting with flavor, making your holiday preparation seamless!
Classic Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best sweet potatoes for this dish?
Absolutely! Look for medium-sized sweet potatoes with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid any with dark spots or soft areas, as these indicate overripeness. The natural sweetness and texture of the tubers will significantly affect the final flavor of your candied sweet potatoes.
How should I store leftover candied sweet potatoes?
For freshness, store leftover candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their texture and flavor. This allows you to enjoy the dish again without sacrificing quality!
Can I freeze candied sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze candied sweet potatoes! Allow them to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
What should I do if my sweet potatoes seem too tough after baking?
If your sweet potatoes are not tender after the initial bake, simply cover the dish again with aluminum foil and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes. Check for tenderness with a fork periodically until they are soft and fully cooked through.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Very! Adjust the sweetness to your liking by tasting the sauce after mixing in the sugars. If you find it too sweet, you can add a touch more orange juice or a sprinkle of salt, which helps balance the flavors without overwhelming the candied sweet potatoes’ natural taste.
Are candied sweet potatoes suitable for special diets?
While they are packed with flavor, consider adjusting the recipe if you have dietary concerns. For gluten-free diets, all listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free. If allergies to nuts or dairy are a concern, use a dairy-free butter alternative and skip any nut toppings. Always double-check labels to ensure freshness and safety!
Sweet & Simple Candied Sweet Potatoes for Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into even 1/2 inch rounds.
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until golden and bubbly.
- Stir in the brown and white sugar until smooth.
- Add cinnamon and nutmeg, mixing well.
- Remove from heat and gently mix in the orange juice.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer.
- Sprinkle salt evenly over the sweet potatoes.
- Drizzle the sauce over the sweet potatoes.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40-45 minutes until tender.
- Cool briefly before serving.