Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes filling the kitchen, especially during the holidays. This dish, a staple at Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, is more than just a side; it’s a sweet, spiced hug on a plate. My grandmother, bless her heart, made the best candied sweet potatoes this side of the Mississippi, and I’ve spent years perfecting her recipe, adding my own little touches while staying true to the original. Fall is here, and with it comes the craving for warm, comforting foods. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, bringing a touch of Southern charm to your table. I’m excited to share my take on this classic, so let’s dive in and create some sweet potato magic!

Sweet potatoes are naturally nutritious and delicious, and when candied, they become an irresistible treat. This recipe uses simple ingredients and techniques to deliver a dish that’s both flavorful and visually appealing. It’s all about achieving that perfect balance of sweet and spice, creating tender sweet potatoes coated in a luscious, caramelized glaze. The key is patience and a watchful eye, ensuring the sweet potatoes are cooked just right. So gather your ingredients, and let’s bring a little Southern sweetness to your kitchen.

Ingredients

• Sweet Potatoes: 3 pounds, peeled and cut into 1-inch thick rounds. Look for firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin. Avoid any with blemishes or soft spots. Did you know that sweet potatoes are packed with Vitamin A and fiber? Different varieties offer slightly different flavor profiles, from earthy to subtly fruity.
• Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), unsalted. Butter adds richness and helps create the delicious glaze. For a vegan option, use a plant-based butter alternative; just be sure to choose one with a high fat content for similar results.
• Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed. Brown sugar provides a deeper, more molasses-like sweetness than granulated sugar. Light or dark brown sugar can be used, depending on your preference. Dark brown sugar will give a richer, more intense flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup. Granulated sugar adds a touch of crispness to the glaze. You can adjust the amount to your liking, depending on how sweet you prefer your candied sweet potatoes.
• Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon, ground. Cinnamon adds warmth and spice. Freshly ground cinnamon is always best, but store-bought ground cinnamon works just fine.
• Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon, ground. Nutmeg complements the cinnamon and adds a subtle nutty flavor. A little goes a long way!
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon. Salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. Vanilla extract adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
• Water: 1/4 cup. Water helps to create the syrup base for the glaze.

Expert Tips

• Don’t Overcook: The sweet potatoes should be tender but not mushy. Start checking for doneness around 20 minutes and adjust the cooking time as needed. I always poke them with a fork to test.
• Browning the Butter (Optional): For an even deeper, nuttier flavor, try browning the butter before adding the other ingredients. Just be careful not to burn it! Keep the heat at medium, and watch closely, stirring frequently until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer less sweet candied sweet potatoes, reduce the amount of brown sugar by a 1/4 cup. Taste and adjust the sweetness to your liking as the glaze simmers.
• Keep Warm: Serve warm for the best flavor and texture. If not serving immediately, keep warm in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting.
• Uniform Cuts: Cutting the sweet potatoes into uniform rounds ensures even cooking. Aim for about 1-inch thickness.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves along with the cinnamon and nutmeg for an even more complex flavor profile.
• Add a touch of citrus: For a bright and zesty twist, add the zest of one orange to the glaze during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Freezing: While candied sweet potatoes can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, let cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?

While often confused, yams and sweet potatoes are different. Yams are typically less sweet and have a drier texture. However, if you prefer a less sweet dish, you can substitute yams for sweet potatoes. Just be aware that the cooking time may need to be adjusted.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make candied sweet potatoes ahead of time! Prepare the dish as directed, let it cool completely, and then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits.

How do I prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking to the pan?

Using a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron skillet helps prevent sticking. Also, make sure there’s enough butter and sugar to create a good glaze that coats the sweet potatoes. Stirring occasionally also helps to prevent sticking.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Absolutely! Pecans or walnuts would be a delicious addition. Add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow them to toast slightly.

Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup for brown sugar for a slightly different flavor profile. Use an equal amount of maple syrup as you would brown sugar. Keep in mind that maple syrup may make the glaze a bit thinner.

Are candied sweet potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. All the ingredients used are gluten-free.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this vegan by using a plant-based butter alternative. Ensure the butter substitute has a high fat content for similar results.

And there you have it – my take on classic Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes. This recipe is a true celebration of flavor and tradition, perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy weeknight meal. From the sweet, spiced aroma filling your kitchen to the tender, caramelized bites, it’s a dish that’s sure to bring smiles. This simple dish has been a source of comfort for generations, and I hope it becomes a cherished part of your family’s culinary traditions as well. If you try this recipe, be sure to leave a comment and let me know how it turned out! I love hearing your feedback and seeing your delicious creations. And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family – let’s spread the sweet potato love!

If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my other Southern-inspired dishes, like my Southern Collard Greens Recipe, Classic Cornbread Recipe, and Sweet Potato Pie Recipe! Happy cooking, y’all!

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