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
- Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into uniform ½-inch rounds to ensure even cooking.
- Arrange the slices in a single layer in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or shallow baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Syrup
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves and the syrup begins to simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
- Pour the hot syrup evenly over the sweet potatoes in the skillet or baking dish.
- Cover with a lid or tightly with aluminum foil.
- Cook over medium-low heat on the stovetop or bake at 375°F (190°C) in the oven for 45-50 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to coat the potatoes in the syrup.
Step 4: Reduce the Syrup
- Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, remove the lid or foil.
- Continue cooking uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken the syrup, basting the potatoes occasionally.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the sweet potatoes to a serving dish, spooning the rich syrup over the top.
- Serve warm and enjoy the sweet, buttery goodness!
Notes
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Use firm, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (often labeled yams) for the best texture and sweetness.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook until tender but not mushy to maintain the slices’ shape.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar by ¼ cup.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg elevate the flavor.