candied sweet potato recipe

candied sweet potato recipe

The Best candied sweet potato recipe

I’m so excited to share this recipe with you – candied sweet potatoes are a staple in our household. My family loves them, and I love how easy they are to make.

The dish has its roots in traditional Southern cuisine, where sweet potatoes were a common ingredient. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is irresistible, and the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to prepare.

Simply boil or bake the sweet potatoes until they’re tender, then toss them with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg. This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick side dish for a weeknight meal.

Not only do these candied sweet potatoes taste amazing, but they’re also incredibly healthy. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.

Plus, the brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness without overpowering the natural flavor of the sweet potatoes.

Candied Sweet Potato Recipe

Candied Sweet Potato Recipe

4.6 from 1307 votes

This candied sweet potato recipe is a delightful side dish with a sweet and savory glaze. Perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners, these sweet potatoes are baked to perfection and caramelized with a brown sugar and butter glaze.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sweet Potatoes

4 medium sweet potatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Glaze

1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup butter
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground ginger

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2Poke the sweet potatoes several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
3Rub the sweet potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
4Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5Bake the sweet potatoes for 25-30 minutes, or until they are soft when pierced with a fork.
6Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
7While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare the glaze.
8In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
9Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
10Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
11Cut a slit in the top of each sweet potato and gently press the ends to open it up.
12Pour the glaze evenly over the sweet potatoes, allowing it to seep into the openings.
13Return the sweet potatoes to the oven and broil on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and bubbly.
14Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
15Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
16The sweet potatoes should have a crispy, caramelized top with a soft, sweet interior.

🔧Equipment

Baking sheet
Oven
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 20g🥩Protein: 3g

📝Notes

Tips: For added texture, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the glaze before broiling.

These candied sweet potatoes are always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick side dish for a weeknight meal.

One of my favorite ways to serve them is as part of a fall-themed menu, paired with roasted meats and seasonal vegetables.

You can also reheat them in the oven or microwave for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture before serving.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Candied Sweet Potato

Q: What is the difference between candied and regular sweet potatoes?

Candied sweet potatoes are cooked in a mixture of sugar, spices, and sometimes butter or oil to create a caramelized crust on the outside. Regular sweet potatoes are simply boiled or baked without any added sugars.

Q: Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?

While yams can be used as a substitute in some recipes, they have a coarser texture and more pronounced flavor than sweet potatoes. For this recipe, it’s best to stick with sweet potatoes for the best results.

Q: How long do candied sweet potatoes keep in the fridge?

Candied sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They’re best consumed fresh, but you can also reheat them in the oven or microwave for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture.

Q: Can I make candied sweet potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the candied sweet potato mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the dish.

Q: Do I need to use high-quality spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for this recipe?

While high-quality spices will certainly enhance the flavor of your candied sweet potatoes, you can use regular cinnamon and nutmeg from your local grocery store if that’s what you have on hand.

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