Description
This classic American side dish features tender sweet potatoes coated in a rich, spiced brown sugar glaze. Candied Sweet Potatoes are perfect for holiday meals or any occasion that calls for a comforting, sweet, and savory accompaniment. The recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, enhanced by butter and vanilla for a luscious finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Sweet Potatoes
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
Syrup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the sweet potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes until the potatoes are slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain thoroughly.
- Make the Syrup: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Simmer the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Combine and Bake: Transfer the parboiled sweet potatoes to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the prepared sugar mixture evenly over the potatoes, gently stirring to coat all pieces well.
- Bake and Serve: Bake the sweet potatoes uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring carefully once halfway through cooking to ensure even coating. The sweet potatoes should be tender and the syrup bubbly. Serve warm immediately.
Notes
- For extra sweetness and texture, add a handful of mini marshmallows on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Enhance the flavor by adding a splash of orange juice or maple syrup to the sugar mixture before baking.
- These candied sweet potatoes can be prepared a day ahead and reheated gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 36 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 47 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
