Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Candied sweet potatoes are a classic side dish that combines tender, caramelized sweet potatoes with a rich buttery and spiced glaze. This comforting recipe is perfect for holiday meals or any cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

• 6 large sweet potatoes
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla

Instructions

1. Step 1: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Step 2: Stir in the sweet potatoes, then add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gently stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cover the skillet.
3. Step 3: Cook covered for 40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are fork tender. Stir gently 2 or 3 times during cooking, being careful not to break up the potatoes.
4. Step 4: Once the potatoes are tender, add the salt and vanilla. Stir gently one more time to combine, then serve and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• Use firm, evenly sized sweet potatoes to ensure even cooking.
• For extra flavor, add a splash of orange juice or zest before cooking.
• Sprinkle chopped pecans on top before serving for added texture.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain the soft texture and glaze.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes for this recipe?

Fresh sweet potatoes are best for this dish as they hold their shape better during cooking. Frozen sweet potatoes may become mushy.

How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?

The sweet potatoes are done when they are fork tender and easily pierced without resistance, usually after about 40 minutes of simmering.

Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 131 reviews

• Author: lina
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A classic and comforting side dish featuring tender sweet potatoes cooked in a rich, buttery, and spiced candied sauce. This recipe delivers perfectly soft sweet potatoes coated in a luscious blend of brown and granulated sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, making it an ideal accompaniment for holiday meals or cozy family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Sweet Potatoes and Spices

• 6 large sweet potatoes
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• pinch of salt

Sugar and Flavorings

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Fat

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

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Instructions

1. Melt the butter: Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat until fully melted and slightly bubbling.
2. Add sweet potatoes and sugars: Stir in the prepared sweet potatoes, then add both the brown sugar and granulated sugar along with the cinnamon and nutmeg. Gently stir to combine all ingredients evenly without breaking the potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Simmer covered: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook the sweet potatoes for approximately 40 minutes, or until they are fork tender. During cooking, carefully stir the mixture two to three times to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking, being gentle to keep the potato pieces intact.
4. Finish with salt and vanilla: Once the sweet potatoes are tender, add the pinch of salt and the vanilla extract. Gently stir one final time to combine all the flavors. Serve warm and enjoy this sweet and flavorful side dish.

Notes

• Use firm sweet potatoes to prevent them from breaking apart during cooking.
• Stir gently to keep the sweet potato chunks intact.
• If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can cook uncovered for the last 5-10 minutes to reduce excess liquid.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or holiday turkey.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: candied sweet potatoes, sweet potato side dish, holiday side dish, cinnamon sweet potatoes, brown sugar sweet potatoes