Candied Sweet Potatoes are a delightful dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. This recipe transforms simple sweet potatoes into a sweet, glazed treat that is perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a comforting family dinner. With their caramelized edges and buttery, sugary goodness, these candied sweet potatoes are sure to impress both friends and family. The rich flavors combined with a beautiful presentation make this dish a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall in love with this candied sweet potato recipe for several reasons. First, the flavor profile is simply irresistible—sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, and when enhanced with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla, they create an unforgettable taste experience. Moreover, the ease of preparation makes this dish accessible to cooks of all skill levels. With just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up a delicious side dish that fits perfectly into various dietary lifestyles, whether you are looking for a comforting vegan option or a family-friendly favorite.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure success with your candied sweet potatoes, here are some helpful tips and tricks. First, choose sweet potatoes that are firm and have a smooth skin for the best results. When cutting them, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. If you want to save time, you can peel and chop the sweet potatoes ahead of time and store them in cold water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For added flavor, consider toasting the nuts or spices before adding them to the dish. Lastly, keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid burning the sugar glaze, and stir occasionally for even coating.
Make Ahead Tips
This candied sweet potato dish can easily be made ahead of time. You can prepare the sweet potatoes and the glaze in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the sweet potatoes and glaze in a baking dish and heat them in the oven until warmed through. You can also make the entire dish ahead of time, cool it, and store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about three days; just reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your candied sweet potatoes with these variations. For a nutty twist, add pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique taste. If you want to incorporate a savory element, try adding a pinch of salt or some fresh herbs like rosemary. For a healthier option, swap out the brown sugar for maple syrup or honey, and reduce the amount according to your taste. You can also prepare these sweet potatoes in a slow cooker or air fryer for a different cooking method.
How to Serve
Serve your candied sweet potatoes warm, drizzled with the rich glaze and topped with toasted nuts or marshmallows for an extra touch of indulgence. They pair wonderfully with savory dishes like roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or herb-crusted chicken. For presentation, consider using a beautiful serving dish and garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Placing the dish on a festive table setting can elevate its visual appeal and make it the centerpiece of your meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider serving a light white wine such as Riesling or a sparkling cider to complement the sweetness of the dish. If you’re in the mood for something warm, a spiced chai tea or a pumpkin spice latte would be delightful choices. As for side dishes, pair your candied sweet potatoes with savory collard greens, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a light salad to balance the meal. For dessert, a slice of pecan pie or apple crisp would be a perfect finish to round out this comforting feast.
How to Store
To store leftovers of your candied sweet potatoes, transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to freeze them, make sure they are completely cooled first, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until warm, adding a splash of water or extra glaze if needed to restore moisture.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you will need a sharp knife and cutting board for prepping the sweet potatoes, a large mixing bowl for combining ingredients, and a baking dish for cooking the sweet potatoes. A whisk or spatula will also come in handy for mixing the glaze. If you choose to use an air fryer or slow cooker, those appliances can be great alternatives for cooking the sweet potatoes.
Dietary Adaptations
If you are looking to make this recipe vegan or dairy-free, simply substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. For a nut-free version, skip the nuts entirely or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. If you have allergies, always double-check that your sweeteners and spices are allergen-free. You can also use gluten-free options for brown sugar if needed.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, consider adding a touch of pumpkin spice to your candied sweet potatoes for a seasonally festive twist. In the spring, you can enhance the dish with fresh citrus zest like orange or lemon to brighten up the flavors. This recipe is versatile enough to be adapted for seasonal ingredients—like using fresh herbs in the summer or incorporating seasonal fruits like cranberries in the winter.
Kitchen Hacks
To make peeling sweet potatoes easier, try microwaving them for a minute or two to soften the skin slightly. You can also use a vegetable peeler for quick and easy peeling. When chopping sweet potatoes, a sharp chef’s knife will help you cut through the tough flesh easily. If you want to minimize the mess, use a large cutting board and a towel to catch any peelings.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
A: While fresh sweet potatoes yield the best texture and flavor, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well and reduce the baking time.
Q: How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?
A: The sweet potatoes are done when they are fork-tender and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
Q: Can I make this recipe without sugar?
A: Yes! You can substitute sugar with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar, adjusting the quantity to your desired sweetness.
How To Make candied sweet potato recipe
Candied Sweet Potatoes
Candied Sweet Potatoes are a delightful dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table.
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt.
- Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the bowl and gently toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
- Transfer the sweet potatoes to a greased baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle the chopped nuts over the sweet potatoes for added texture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 263Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 20mgSodium 55mgCarbohydrates 32gFiber 4gSugar 20gProtein 3g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Candied sweet potatoes are not just a side dish; they are a celebration of flavors and memories that can bring joy to any meal. With their sweet, buttery glaze and tender texture, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the warmth and comfort of candied sweet potatoes for yourself. Whether enjoyed during the holidays or as a comforting weeknight treat, this dish is bound to become a beloved favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
