Effortless Cooking with the Best Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a classic comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal. Coated in a rich, buttery, and spiced brown sugar glaze, these sweet potatoes caramelize to perfection, making them an irresistible side dish for holidays and family gatherings. Whether you’re serving them for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe is simple to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor – Just a few basic ingredients transform sweet potatoes into a decadent treat.
• Perfectly Caramelized – The slow-cooking process allows the brown sugar and butter to create a luscious glaze.
• Customizable – You can adjust the sweetness and spices to suit your taste.
• Great for Any Occasion – A staple for festive feasts but easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup water (or orange juice for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes – Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into uniform rounds for even cooking.
3. Make the Glaze – In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla extract, and water (or orange juice). Stir until combined and slightly thickened.
4. Coat the Sweet Potatoes – Arrange the sweet potato slices in a baking dish and pour the glaze evenly over them.
5. Bake to Perfection – Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil, baste the potatoes with the sauce, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes until tender and caramelized.
6. Serve Warm – Let the sweet potatoes cool slightly before serving to allow the syrup to thicken.

Variations & Substitutions

• Add Pecans – Sprinkle chopped pecans over the potatoes before baking for added crunch.
• Use Maple Syrup – Substitute some or all of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer flavor.
• Coconut Twist – Replace butter with coconut oil and add a sprinkle of shredded coconut for a tropical touch.
• Spiced Version – Enhance the warm flavors with a pinch of ground cloves or ginger.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 people
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15 minutes or microwave in 30-second increments until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the sweet potatoes from becoming mushy?

Avoid overbaking. Stick to the recommended time and test for tenderness with a fork.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?

Yes! Simmer the sweet potatoes in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 45 minutes until tender.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Fresh is best, but if using canned, drain well and reduce baking time to 25-30 minutes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and bake the dish, then reheat before serving.

Is this dish very sweet?

It has a naturally sweet profile, but you can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute if needed.

What main dishes pair well with candied sweet potatoes?

They go great with roasted turkey, glazed ham, fried chicken, or pork chops.

Can I use honey instead of sugar?

Yes, but it will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the glaze.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter.

Should I peel the sweet potatoes?

Yes, peeling gives a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on for extra fiber.

What’s the difference between sweet potatoes and yams?

In the U.S., most “yams” sold in stores are actually sweet potatoes. True yams have rough, starchy flesh and are not typically used in this dish.

Conclusion

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a delicious, easy-to-make side dish that perfectly balances sweetness and spice. Whether served during the holidays or as a comforting addition to a family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, caramelized goodness of this Southern classic!

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