As the holiday season approaches, I can’t help but get lost in thoughts of cozy gatherings and warming flavors. The moment my kitchen fills with the sweet, earthy aroma of candied sweet potatoes, it’s as if the spirit of the season has arrived. Imagine tender rounds of sweet potatoes, perfectly caramelized and glistening in a warm, spiced syrup made from rich brown sugar and fragrant spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This dish is more than just a side; it’s a celebration of comfort and indulgence that beautifully complements any festive table.
What’s truly exciting about this recipe is its incredible versatility. Whether you need a gluten-free option, want to whip up a vegan delight, or just want to cut down on sugar, I’ve got you covered! These candied sweet potatoes promise to be a crowd-pleaser, mingling seamlessly with a holiday turkey or simply enjoyed on their own. Ready to bring warmth and sweetness into your home? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why are Candied Sweet Potatoes a Must-Try?
Versatile Delight: These candied sweet potatoes can easily adapt to your dietary needs, offering vegan and lower-sugar variations.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The rich blend of brown sugar, butter, and warm spices creates a dish that everyone will love at your holiday gatherings.
Simplicity in Preparation: With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a stunning side dish on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Comforting Texture: Each bite delivers a tender, caramelized texture that feels just like a warm hug.
Gourmet Appeal: The glossy glaze and fragrant aromas make it feel like a gourmet treat, elevating any meal.
Elevate your holiday feast by creating these show-stopping candied sweet potatoes!
Candied Sweet Potatoes Ingredients
For the Base
- Sweet Potatoes – 3 pounds peeled and cut into ½-inch rounds; they provide a natural sweetness that is essential for making delicious candied sweet potatoes.
- Unsalted Butter – ½ cup melted; this richness is key for achieving a glossy glaze, but feel free to use plant-based butter for a vegan twist.
For the Sweeteners
- Brown Sugar – ½ cup; it imparts depth and caramel flavor, but coconut sugar can be a great lower-sugar alternative.
- Maple Syrup – ¼ cup; this adds a lovely complexity, although honey or agave syrup can be used if preferred.
For the Spices
- Ground Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon; this warm spice is crucial for enhancing flavor and creating that inviting aroma.
- Ground Nutmeg – ¼ teaspoon; it adds fragrant complexity; just a pinch goes a long way!
- Fine Salt – ¼ teaspoon; it beautifully balances the sweetness of the dish.
For the Finish
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon; add this at the end to infuse extra richness into your candied sweet potatoes.
Embrace the warmth and sweetness of this delightful recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your holiday spread!
How to Make Candied Sweet Potatoes
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Prep Sweet Potatoes: Start by peeling and slicing 3 pounds of sweet potatoes into uniform ½-inch rounds. This ensures even cooking and delicious caramelization.
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Melt Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter. Watch for it to become silky and fragrant, as it sets the stage for your glaze.
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Add Ingredients: Stir in ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup maple syrup, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and syrupy.
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Coat Sweet Potatoes: Toss the sliced sweet potatoes into the glaze and arrange them in a single layer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to soak up the flavor.
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Flip and Cook: Carefully uncover and gently flip the sweet potatoes. Stir occasionally, cooking until they are fork-tender and the sauce thickens, which should take an additional 10–15 minutes.
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Finish with Vanilla: Just before removing from heat, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Let the dish stand for 2–3 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
Optional: Top with chopped pecans for an added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Candied Sweet Potatoes
- Even Slicing: Ensure your sweet potatoes are cut into uniform ½-inch rounds. This guarantees even cooking and prevents some from being too mushy.
- Monitor Cooking: Watch the glaze closely as it thickens; if it appears to be thickening too quickly, add a splash of water to avoid burning.
- Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to get creative with spices! A hint of cardamom or a touch of allspice can elevate your candied sweet potatoes even more.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the glaze before adding the sweet potatoes. If you prefer a sweeter result, feel free to add a bit more brown sugar or maple syrup.
- Serving Warm: For the best experience, serve your candied sweet potatoes warm; the flavors become more pronounced, making every bite delightful.
Storage Tips for Candied Sweet Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days, keeping them delicious and ready to enjoy again.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the candied sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw your sweet potatoes overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Reheating: To maintain their glossy glaze, stir in a splash of water or maple syrup when reheating to prevent them from drying out. Enjoy your candied sweet potatoes at their best!
Make Ahead Options
These candied sweet potatoes are an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy days! You can peel and slice the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in a bowl of water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. The sweet glaze can also be prepared ahead—simply melt the butter and mix in the sugar and spices, then refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the glaze in a skillet, toss in the sweet potatoes, and follow the cooking steps as usual. This method ensures your dish remains just as delicious with minimal effort, perfect for holiday feasts or weeknight dinners!
What to Serve with Candied Sweet Potatoes?
Bring your holiday table to life with vibrant flavors and delightful pairings that everyone will adore.
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Roasted Turkey: A classic pairing, the savory notes of turkey beautifully contrast the sweetness of candied sweet potatoes, creating a well-rounded meal.
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Glazed Ham: The salty-sweet flavor of a glazed ham complements the caramelized sweetness of the sweet potatoes, adding a luscious touch to your feast.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting contrast, serve alongside velvety mashed potatoes, elevating your meal into a comforting embrace.
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Green Beans Almondine: The crunch of sautéed green beans with almonds adds a fresh, nutty flavor that enhances the overall richness of candied sweet potatoes.
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Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad with apples and walnuts provides a refreshing crunch and balances out the sweet and savory elements on your plate.
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Sparkling Cider: A glass of sparkling cider will add a festive touch and a refreshing burst that complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, this traditional favorite echoes the warm spices used in the sweet potatoes, rounding off your meal with cozy flavors that feel like home.
Indulging in these combinations will transform your holiday gathering into a memorable feast, where every bite tells a story of warmth and togetherness.
Candied Sweet Potatoes Variations
Get ready to make this delectable dish your own with a few simple tweaks and substitutions!
- Vegan Option: Substitute unsalted butter with plant-based butter and use maple syrup instead of honey for a delightful twist.
- Lower-Sugar: Swap out brown sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier spin while still enjoying that lovely caramel flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon for a bright, refreshing hint that beautifully complements the sweetness.
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in some toasted pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and additional depth of flavor that will elevate each bite.
- Spice It Up: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness and adds complexity.
- Maple & Spice: For a cozy flavor boost, incorporate a teaspoon of ground ginger alongside the cinnamon for an exciting twist on tradition.
- Marshmallow Topper: Top with mini marshmallows during the last few minutes of cooking for a nostalgic touch reminiscent of holiday feasts from your childhood.
- Fruit Medley: Mix in dried cranberries or chopped apples to add a burst of texture and fruity sweetness, making your candied sweet potatoes truly unique!
Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best sweet potatoes for candied sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Look for sweet potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free from blemishes or dark spots. The best ones are medium to large in size, as they tend to be sweeter and more flavorful.
What’s the best way to store leftover candied sweet potatoes?
After cooling, store the leftover candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To maintain their delicious flavor, make sure they’re completely sealed.
Can I freeze candied sweet potatoes, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze them! Start by arranging the cooked sweet potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw the sweet potatoes overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
What should I do if my glaze is too thick?
Very! If you find that your glaze is thickening too quickly, simply add a splash of water to the skillet while cooking. This will help maintain the right consistency so that your sweet potatoes stay tender instead of becoming overly dry.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Of course! This recipe can easily be made vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and using maple syrup instead of honey. Additionally, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a suitable side dish for various diets. Always check for allergies with guests, especially if you decide to add nuts or toppings like marshmallows.
How can I enhance the flavors of my candied sweet potatoes?
I often encourage experimenting with spices! Try adding a hint of cardamom or a pinch of allspice for a unique twist. You can also top your sweet potatoes with toasted pecans or even mini marshmallows for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Enjoy the process and make it your own!
Delicious Candied Sweet Potatoes for Your Holiday Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling and slicing 3 pounds of sweet potatoes into uniform ½-inch rounds.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter.
- Stir in ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup maple syrup, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
- Toss the sliced sweet potatoes into the glaze and arrange them in a single layer.
- Carefully uncover and gently flip the sweet potatoes.
- Just before removing from heat, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.