Candied Sweet Potatoes are not just any side dish; they are a nostalgic dance of sweetness and warmth that can turn any meal into a festive occasion. Imagine a family gathering where the air is filled with the rich aromas of caramelized brown sugar and fragrant cinnamon wafting from the oven. There they are, those vibrant orange gems, glossy with a syrupy glaze, just waiting to be scooped into bowls and served with love.
Growing up, I recall the clamor of family chatter and laughter around the table, with candied sweet potatoes claiming their rightful spot as the star of our holiday spread. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy Sunday dinner, they never fail to evoke smiles and happy sighs. Get ready to savor their delightful richness and elevate your dinner with this easy and beloved recipe.
Why You'll Love This Candied Sweet Potatoes
- This incredible Candied Sweet Potatoes transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
<h2><strong>Ingredients for Candied Sweet Potatoes</strong></h2>
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Candied Sweet Potatoes:
<strong>5–6 medium sweet potatoes (3–4 lbs)</strong> – Look for firm, smooth-skinned potatoes to ensure the best flavor and texture.
<strong>1/2 teaspoon salt</strong> – Enhances the sweetness of the potatoes and balances the flavors.
<strong>1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter</strong> – Adds richness and helps in creating the dreamy sauce.
<strong>1 Tablespoon (15ml) water</strong> – A small amount helps to dissolve the sugar for the sauce.
<strong>1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup</strong> – Adds a natural sweetness and is essential for that sticky glaze.
<strong>1 cup (200g) packed light or dark brown sugar</strong> – The star of this dish; it caramelizes beautifully and provides that irresistible sweetness.
<strong>3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon</strong> – A warm spice that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.
<strong>1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg</strong> – Adds a subtle depth of flavor, making the dish cozy.
<strong>1/2 teaspoon ground ginger</strong> – Offers a zesty lift to the flavor profile.
<strong>1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</strong> – A splash of this elevates the sweetness to dreamy levels.
<strong>2 teaspoons orange zest (optional)</strong> – Infuses a bright, citrusy note for an additional layer of flavor.
<strong>Chopped fresh or dried rosemary (optional for garnish)</strong> – Gives a lovely herbal contrast to the sweetness.
<strong>Flaky sea salt (optional for garnish)</strong> – A sprinkle at the end enhances the flavor and adds a nice crunch.
<h2><strong>How to Make Candied Sweet Potatoes</strong></h2>
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Candied Sweet Potatoes:
<strong>Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes</strong>\
Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into 1/2 inch thick slices. Place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or another 3-quart dish. Sprinkle salt over the slices and toss gently to coat them evenly.
<strong>Step 2: Preheat the Oven</strong>\
Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C). This will ensure the sweet potatoes begin to soften nicely once they hit the heat.
<strong>Step 3: Make the Sauce</strong>\
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, water, maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir until the butter melts. Allow the mixture to gently boil for 2 minutes without stirring. Remove from the heat and stir in vanilla extract and orange zest if you’re using it.
<strong>Step 4: Coat the Sweet Potatoes</strong>\
Pour the warm sauce over the prepared sweet potatoes. Toss gently to coat every slice with that glorious glaze.
<strong>Step 5: Bake the Sweet Potatoes</strong>\
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, making sure to stir the sweet potatoes every 20 minutes. Cover the dish with aluminum foil after the first 20 minutes to keep everything nice and moist.
<strong>Step 6: Finish and Serve</strong>\
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle chopped rosemary and flaky sea salt on top, if desired. Allow to cool uncovered for about 10 minutes before serving. This is crucial—the sweet potatoes will be bubbling with syrupy goodness, and letting them settle a bit ensures you don’t scorch yourself while dishing them out.
Gather around the table, because these Candied Sweet Potatoes are a surefire way to win over everyone with their sweet, buttery goodness and just a hint of spice. They are easy to prepare, and they hold the perfect balance of flavors that transforms a simple meal into something spectacular. Enjoy this delightful dish and watch it steal the show at your next gathering!
You Must Know About Candied Sweet Potatoes
- This showstopping Candied Sweet Potatoes delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
<h2><strong>Perfecting Candied Sweet Potatoes Cooking Process</strong></h2>\
To achieve the best results with your Candied Sweet Potatoes, start by peeling and slicing the sweet potatoes. While they rest, prepare the sauce, combining the luscious ingredients until they bubble with excitement. Baking them periodically allows flavors to marry beautifully, ensuring perfect tenderness.
<h2><strong>Add Your Touch to Candied Sweet Potatoes</strong></h2>\
Feel free to customize your Candied Sweet Potatoes! Swap maple syrup for honey for a different sweetness, add pecans for crunch, or sprinkle in a dash of cayenne pepper to give it a sweet and spicy flair everyone will love.
<h2><strong>Storing & Reheating Candied Sweet Potatoes</strong></h2>\
To store your leftover Candied Sweet Potatoes, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve their delicious candied glaze.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Candied Sweet Potatoes
- This professional-quality Candied Sweet Potatoes relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sharing this dish at family gatherings has always brought such joy. One Thanksgiving, my young niece asked for a second helping while giving me her usual adorable thumbs-up. That moment turned a simple recipe into a cherished memory, proving food truly brings us together.
FAQs About Candied Sweet Potatoes
What is Candied Sweet Potatoes?
Candied Sweet Potatoes is a classic dish that transforms sweet potatoes into a deliciously sweet and sticky side dish. Often sweetened with brown sugar and maple syrup, this recipe balances the natural flavor of sweet potatoes with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The end result is a wonderfully caramelized treat that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any time you want to impress your guests with a comforting dish. It’s not just delicious; it’s an experience that resonates with warmth and home-cooked love.
How do you make Candied Sweet Potatoes ahead of time?
To prepare Candied Sweet Potatoes in advance, you can peel and slice the sweet potatoes a day beforehand and store them in water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. You can also make the sauce ahead of time and simply combine it all when you’re ready to cook. This way, you save time and reduce stress on the day of your meal. When you’re ready, just bake, stir, and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.
Can you make Candied Sweet Potatoes without maple syrup?
Absolutely! While maple syrup lends a unique flavor, you can substitute it with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile. Some even use brown sugar alone, blending it with butter and spices to create the sticky glaze. Remember, the goal is to achieve that gooey sweetness, so feel free to experiment until you find your perfect match!
What do you serve with Candied Sweet Potatoes?
Candied Sweet Potatoes pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. You could serve them alongside roasted meats like turkey or ham, where the sweet glaze balances savory flavors perfectly. They’re also delightfully at home among other holiday staples, such as green bean casserole or cranberry sauce. Plus, they can elevate a simple weekday dinner when served with grilled chicken or even alongside salads for a touch of warmth and sweetness.
Conclusion for Candied Sweet Potatoes
Candied Sweet Potatoes are a delightful addition to any table, providing a delicious fusion of sweet and savory that pleases almost everyone. Their preparation can be easily adapted for advance cooking, making them a stress-free choice for gatherings. Whether you drizzle them with maple syrup or serve them as a side to your favorite main dishes, these sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit. Remember, the secret to perfect Candied Sweet Potatoes lies in balancing the flavors and letting them shine through. Enjoy this comforting dish that brings joy to any occasion.
Candied Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into 1/2 inch thick slices. Place in a greased 9×13-inch or other 3 quart baking dish. Sprinkle salt on top and toss to coat.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (191°C).
- Combine all the butter, water, maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook and stir until the butter has melted. Stop stirring and bring to a gentle boil. Boil for 2 minutes without stirring. Remove sauce from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest (if using).
- Pour sauce over potatoes and toss to coat.
- Bake for 1 hour, stopping and stirring the sweet potatoes every 20 minutes. After the first 20 minutes, cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with rosemary and sea salt (if using), then cool uncovered for 10 minutes before serving.
