candy sweet potato recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best candy sweet potato recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite candy sweet potato recipe. This dish has been a staple in my family for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a delicious dessert, this recipe is sure to please.

I remember first trying sweet potatoes as a child, and I was immediately hooked. My mom would cook them up with some brown sugar and cinnamon, and they’d be so tender and sweet. As I got older, I started experimenting with different spices and ingredients to give it a unique twist.

That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of adding marshmallows and nuts to create a candy-like topping. It was love at first bite! Ever since then, I’ve been hooked on this sweet and savory treat.

It’s become a staple in our household, especially during the holidays when we have large gatherings. My kids love helping me make it, and it’s always a hit with our friends and family. The best part is that it’s surprisingly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

Simply boil your sweet potatoes until they’re tender, then mash them up with some butter, brown sugar, and spices. Top with marshmallows and nuts, and you’re good to go! This recipe is perfect for any time of year, whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a show-stopping dessert.

It’s also incredibly healthy, packed with vitamins A and C from the sweet potatoes, as well as antioxidants from the marshmallows and nuts.

Candied Sweet Potatoes

4.7 from 1917 votes

Tender sweet potato chunks are coated in a buttery brown sugar glaze with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. This classic side dish is perfect for holiday dinners or a comforting weeknight treat.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sweet Potatoes

3 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes.
2This ensures even cooking and a tender texture throughout.
3In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
4Add the brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, lemon juice, and water, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
5Add the sweet potato cubes to the skillet and stir to coat them evenly with the glaze.
6Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
7Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
8Cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the glaze has thickened slightly.
9Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high.
10Cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the glaze becomes syrupy and coats the sweet potatoes with a shiny finish.
11The sweet potatoes should be caramelized on the edges but still hold their shape.
12Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
13Serve warm as a side dish or dessert.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Vegetable peeler
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 220mg🌾Total Carbs: 52g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 35g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

For a deeper flavor, add a pinch of ground ginger or a splash of vanilla extract. If the glaze becomes too thick, thin with a tablespoon of water. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Watch Video Of How Candied Sweet Potatoes Works

This candy sweet potato recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a Tuesday night dinner. It’s easy to make ahead of time and reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave.

For storage ideas, simply place leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. When reheating, sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top for added flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Candied Sweet Potatoes

Q: What type of sweet potatoes are best for this recipe?

Cooking sweet potatoes can be intimidating if you’ve never done it before. The key is to use high-quality ingredients that will result in the best flavor possible.

Q: Can I use other types of sugar besides brown sugar?

Yes, you can use other types of sugar if you prefer. However, keep in mind that brown sugar adds a rich flavor that complements the sweetness of the marshmallows perfectly.

Q: Do I need to toast the nuts before adding them to the recipe?

Nope! You can use raw nuts directly from the package if you like. However, toasting them does bring out their natural oils and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, making this recipe ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Q: Is there a way to make this recipe without using marshmallows?

You can substitute marshmallows with other sweet treats like caramel sauce or even honey if you prefer.

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