Candied Sweet Potatoes

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Golden, buttery, and bathed in a spiced brown sugar glaze, Candied Sweet Potatoes are the kind of comfort food that makes any meal feel special. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or simply want to elevate a weekday dinner, this classic Southern side dish brings cozy warmth and nostalgic flavor to the table. Each bite delivers soft, tender slices of sweet potato coated in a silky syrup infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla.

Perfectly caramelized and naturally sweet, these candied sweet potatoes strike a balance between indulgent and wholesome. The slow bake in the oven allows the glaze to thicken and cling to each slice, creating a rich, glossy finish. It’s a dish that appeals across generations—grandparents, kids, and everyone in between. Serve it alongside roasted meats or as a standalone treat—you really can’t go wrong.

Why You’ll Love This Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

• Classic comfort food with rich, nostalgic flavor.
• Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Pairs beautifully with savory dishes for contrast.
• Perfect for holidays or cozy weeknight dinners.
• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make perfect Candied Sweet Potatoes, preparation is everything. First, you’ll need a sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board to slice the sweet potatoes evenly—uniform thickness helps them cook at the same rate. A vegetable peeler ensures a smooth, clean peel without wasting flesh. You’ll also need a medium saucepan to melt the butter and sugar mixture, allowing the glaze to come together before pouring it over the potatoes.

The most important tool for this dish is a good-quality baking dish—preferably ceramic or glass—that conducts heat evenly. This is key for the syrup to bubble up and coat every slice beautifully without burning. Finally, aluminum foil will help cover the dish during baking to trap steam and keep the potatoes tender before uncovering them to caramelize.

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Preparation Tips

Select sweet potatoes that are firm, smooth, and without any green spots or bruising. When peeling and slicing, aim for rounds that are about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick for the ideal texture—thin enough to cook through but thick enough to hold their shape. You can soak the slices in water briefly to prevent browning if prepping ahead.

When making the glaze, use low heat and stir continuously to prevent the sugar from burning. Pour the glaze evenly over the potatoes to ensure every piece is coated. Covering the dish during the first part of baking helps them steam and soften, while uncovering at the end gives them that caramelized finish. Don’t rush the baking time—slow cooking is what transforms the dish into something spectacular.

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Ingredients for This Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 2.5 to 3 lbs), peeled and sliced into 1/4 to 1/2 inch rounds
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• Optional: pinch of ground cloves or ginger for added warmth

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.

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Step 2: Slice the Sweet Potatoes

Using a sharp knife or mandoline, peel and slice the sweet potatoes into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick rounds. Try to keep them uniform to ensure even cooking. Arrange the slices evenly in your prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly if needed.

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Step 3: Make the Glaze

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and optional spices. Continue stirring until the mixture is fully combined and just beginning to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

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Step 4: Pour and Coat

Carefully pour the warm glaze over the sliced sweet potatoes, making sure all pieces are well coated. Use a spoon or spatula to spread and distribute the syrup evenly if necessary.

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Step 5: Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the sweet potatoes to soften and absorb the glaze.

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Step 6: Uncover and Caramelize

Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 20 to 30 minutes. The glaze will reduce and thicken, and the tops of the potatoes will begin to caramelize. You can baste the sweet potatoes with the sauce once or twice during this phase to intensify the flavor.

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Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once the sweet potatoes are tender and the glaze is thick and glossy, remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the syrup set slightly and makes for easier plating.

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Notes

Candied sweet potatoes are incredibly forgiving, which makes them a favorite for both novice and experienced cooks. You can adjust the sweetness by using less sugar or opting for maple syrup or honey for a more natural twist. If you prefer a deeper caramel flavor, try using dark brown sugar instead of light. Adding orange zest or a splash of citrus juice gives the dish a fresh, bright contrast to the rich syrup. And if you want a bit of texture, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Uneven Slicing: Inconsistent slice thickness leads to uneven cooking. Some pieces may end up mushy while others remain undercooked.
• Using Cold Glaze: Pouring cold glaze over the potatoes won’t coat them properly. Always pour the glaze while it’s still warm.
• Not Covering During Initial Bake: Skipping the foil in the beginning will cause the top layer to dry out before the center cooks.
• High Heat: Baking at a higher temperature than recommended might burn the sugars and create a bitter taste.
• Overbaking Uncovered: While caramelization is good, overdoing it can turn the glaze into a hard candy-like shell.

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Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the sweet potatoes can become grainy and the glaze may separate.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 8 Servings)

• Calories: 280
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 22g
• Protein: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sweet potatoes should I use?

Choose orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, often labeled as garnet or jewel yams. They’re naturally sweeter and have a creamy texture when cooked.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the entire dish a day ahead. Store covered in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.

Is it possible to reduce the sugar?

Absolutely. You can cut the sugar in half or replace some with maple syrup for a less sweet version.

Can I add marshmallows?

While traditional candied sweet potatoes don’t include marshmallows, you can add them during the last 5 minutes of baking for a sweet twist.

How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Don’t bake at too high a temperature and keep the dish covered for most of the cooking time. Watch closely in the final 15 minutes.

What can I substitute for butter?

Use vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Layer the potatoes and pour the glaze over them in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–5 hours, then remove the lid for the final 30 minutes to thicken the glaze.

How can I make it more festive for the holidays?

Add spices like clove or allspice, or stir in some orange zest and top with candied pecans before serving.

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Conclusion

Candied Sweet Potatoes are a time-honored dish that fits effortlessly into any menu, whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or craving a cozy side dish. Their caramelized flavor, tender texture, and rich glaze make them a standout that guests return to again and again. With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, you can create a dish that’s both indulgent and comforting—classic Southern cooking at its best.

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