Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish, bringing tender, buttery sweet potatoes coated in a rich, caramelized syrup of sugar, spices, and butter. Whether it’s for a family dinner, Thanksgiving, or Sunday supper, this dish has that nostalgic, soul-warming flavor everyone loves.

Growing up in the South, candied sweet potatoes were always on the table during the holidays. The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filling the kitchen brings back so many fond memories of family gathered around the table. Let’s dive into how to make this simple, classic dish that’ll steal the show every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: A decadent blend of butter, sugar, and spices coats each slice perfectly.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, yet delivers big on flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: A side dish that fits every dinner table, from holidays to casual meals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or large gatherings.

Recipe: Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup water
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into uniform ½-inch rounds to ensure even cooking.
2. Arrange the slices in a single layer in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or shallow baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Syrup

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
3. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves and the syrup begins to simmer.

Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

1. Pour the hot syrup evenly over the sweet potatoes in the skillet or baking dish.
2. Cover with a lid or tightly with aluminum foil.
3. Cook over medium-low heat on the stovetop or bake at 375°F (190°C) in the oven for 45-50 minutes.
4. Stir occasionally to coat the potatoes in the syrup.

Step 4: Reduce the Syrup

1. Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, remove the lid or foil.
2. Continue cooking uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken the syrup, basting the potatoes occasionally.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the sweet potatoes to a serving dish, spooning the rich syrup over the top.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the sweet, buttery goodness!

Tips for the Best Candied Sweet Potatoes

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Use firm, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (often labeled yams) for the best texture and sweetness.
2. Don’t Overcook: Cook until tender but not mushy to maintain the slices’ shape.
3. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar by ¼ cup.
4. Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg elevate the flavor.
5. Add Toppings: For a twist, sprinkle chopped pecans or marshmallows on top before serving.

Why These Sweet Potatoes Stand Out

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are the perfect blend of simplicity and decadence. The butter and sugar caramelize into a rich syrup that soaks into the tender potatoes, while the cinnamon and nutmeg add a warm, comforting spice. They pair beautifully with savory dishes like roasted chicken or turkey and are a must-have for any holiday feast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A1: Yes! Prepare the dish as directed and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.

Q2: Can I use other sweeteners?
A2: Absolutely. Swap out granulated sugar for coconut sugar or maple syrup for a slightly different flavor profile.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Q4: Can I make this dish vegan?
A4: Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or coconut oil.

Q5: Can I add other flavors?
A5: For extra depth, try adding a splash of orange juice to the syrup or a pinch of ground ginger for additional spice.

Final Thoughts

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a classic dish that never goes out of style. They’re sweet, buttery, and bursting with warm, spiced flavor—perfect for cozy dinners and holiday feasts alike. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and sure to impress your family and friends.

Give these candied sweet potatoes a try, and let them become a staple at your table. Happy cooking!

---