The Best Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

There’s nothing like the sweet, buttery aroma of Southern candied sweet potatoes bubbling away in the oven. Each tender slice is coated in a luscious glaze of brown sugar, butter, and warm spices, creating a dish that feels like a cozy hug.

this Recipe

This recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where these sweet potatoes always stole the show. With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, you’ll have a soul-warming side dish that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Let’s dive in and discover why this recipe deserves a spot at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Get ready to add a touch of Southern comfort to your dinner table. These candied sweet potatoes are a beloved classic for a reason.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and a quick prep, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it took hours to perfect.

They’re also perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a Thanksgiving side or pairing them with fried chicken on a casual weeknight, their versatility is unmatched.

The flavor is simply irresistible. The rich blend of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon transforms ordinary sweet potatoes into a dessert-like treat that pairs beautifully with savory mains.

Best of all, this recipe is kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing. Even the pickiest eaters can’t resist the melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet glaze.

Now, let’s break down the magic behind these delectable sweet potatoes.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple ingredients, each playing a key role in achieving that classic Southern flavor.

Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for their natural sweetness and creamy texture when cooked. Look for medium-sized ones to ensure even slicing and cooking.

Brown Sugar: The heart of the glaze, brown sugar adds depth and caramel-like richness. Use light or dark brown sugar depending on your flavor preference.

Butter: Real, unsalted butter is essential. It provides the base for the glaze, creating a velvety consistency that clings to every slice.

Spices: Ground cinnamon and nutmeg are the stars here. They infuse the glaze with warmth and a subtle complexity, while a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors.

Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the sweetness and adds an extra layer of flavor to the glaze.

Optional, but delicious: Add a hint of ground ginger or a sprinkle of cloves for a bolder spice profile.

A casserole dish and a sharp knife are all the special equipment you’ll need to whip up this Southern favorite.

How to Make This Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Creating these tender, caramelized sweet potatoes is easier than you think. Here’s how to do it, step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it heats, peel your sweet potatoes and slice them into ½-inch rounds. This thickness ensures they’ll cook evenly and absorb all the flavors of the glaze.

Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer in a buttered casserole dish. Overlapping slightly is fine, but aim for even coverage so each piece gets its fair share of the glaze.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the spices are fragrant.

Pour the warm glaze evenly over the sweet potatoes, making sure every slice is coated. Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap the steam and bake for 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and gently stir or baste the sweet potatoes with the glaze. This step ensures the glaze thickens and coats the potatoes perfectly. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for another 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.

Let them cool slightly before serving. The glaze will thicken as it cools, making every bite even more decadent.

Storage Options

Leftovers? Lucky you! These sweet potatoes reheat beautifully and can be stored for later enjoyment.

For refrigeration, place cooled leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 4 days.

To freeze, arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months.

Reheating is simple. For best results, warm them in a 350°F oven until heated through. If you’re short on time, a microwave works too, but the oven helps maintain their caramelized texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Swap the brown sugar for maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness profile. Both add a unique flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

Add pecans or walnuts for crunch. Sprinkle them over the sweet potatoes before baking for a nutty twist.

Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. The subtle heat balances the sweetness and adds depth.

Experiment with citrus. A splash of orange juice or a bit of zest in the glaze brightens the flavor and adds a fresh dimension.

For a vegan option, use plant-based butter. The result is just as rich and indulgent.

With endless possibilities, this recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it uniquely yours.

There you have it – the ultimate Southern candied sweet potatoes recipe. Perfectly tender, bursting with warm flavors, and guaranteed to become a favorite at your table. Whether you’re making them for a holiday feast or a cozy dinner at home, they’re sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!

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