Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Buttery – A combination of butter, brown sugar, and warm spices creates a decadent glaze.
- Easy to Make – Requires minimal ingredients and simple steps.
- Perfect for Holidays – A must-have on Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner tables.
- Versatile – Can be made on the stovetop or baked in the oven.
- Great for Leftovers – The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers just as delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Sweet potatoes
- Butter
- Brown sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
- Water
Directions
- Prep the Sweet Potatoes – Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into rounds or thick wedges.
- Make the Syrup – In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
- Add Sweet Potatoes – Place the sliced sweet potatoes into the skillet, coating them with the sugar mixture.
- Simmer – Add water and cover the skillet. Let the sweet potatoes cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and the sauce thickens (about 30-40 minutes).
- Finish with Vanilla – Stir in vanilla extract and let the sweet potatoes sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve – Enjoy warm as a side dish with your favorite meals.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Oven-Baked – Instead of cooking on the stovetop, bake at 375°F for about 45-50 minutes.
- Maple Syrup Addition – Swap some of the brown sugar for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
- Pecan Topping – Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for a crunchy texture.
- Marshmallow Version – Top with mini marshmallows and broil for a gooey twist.
- Spiced Twist – Add a dash of ground cloves or ginger for extra warmth.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating – Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
- Freezing – Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
How do I keep the sweet potatoes from becoming mushy?
Cook them on low heat and avoid stirring too often to maintain their shape.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Fresh sweet potatoes work best, but you can use canned ones; just reduce the cooking time.
What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?
Yams are starchier and drier, while sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and moist.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, adjust the sugar to your preference, but it may alter the caramelization.
What main dishes pair well with candied sweet potatoes?
They go well with roasted turkey, fried chicken, or barbecue ribs.
Why is my sauce not thickening?
Let it simmer uncovered for the last few minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
Can I add honey instead of sugar?
Yes, but honey burns easily, so monitor the heat closely.
How do I get a deeper caramel flavor?
Cook the sugar mixture a little longer before adding the sweet potatoes.
Conclusion
Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a classic dish that brings warmth and sweetness to any meal. Whether served for a holiday feast or as a comforting side dish, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its buttery, spiced caramel sauce and tender sweet potatoes, this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves Southern cuisine.
Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a rich and buttery soul food classic, perfect for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Tender sweet potatoes are coated in a decadent brown sugar glaze with warm spices, making every bite irresistibly caramelized. This easy stovetop or baked recipe is a must-try for a comforting and flavorful side dish!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern, Soul Food
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4-5 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into rounds or wedges
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup water
Instructions
- Prep the Sweet Potatoes – Peel and slice sweet potatoes into thick rounds or wedges.
- Make the Syrup – In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Add Sweet Potatoes – Place sliced sweet potatoes into the skillet, coating them in the sugar mixture.
- Simmer – Pour in water, cover, and cook on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and caramelized.
- Finish with Vanilla – Stir in vanilla extract and let the sweet potatoes sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve – Enjoy warm as a side dish for holiday feasts or everyday meals.
Notes
- For a deeper caramel flavor – Cook the sugar mixture slightly longer before adding the sweet potatoes.
- To prevent mushy sweet potatoes – Cook on low heat and stir gently.
- For extra texture – Add chopped pecans or top with mini marshmallows before serving.
- Make-ahead option – Prepare in advance and reheat before serving.
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