Oh my goodness, am I excited to share this Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes recipe with you! There’s something magical about the sweet aroma wafting through the house while these babies bake that instantly transports me back to family gatherings during the holidays. My grandma would whip up a pan of these sweet delights, and I can still hear the clinking of silverware and laughter filling the air around the dinner table. It’s pure joy, and trust me, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home too!
Candied sweet potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re an experience—a comforting, sweet, sticky treasure you won’t want to miss. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both simple to make and totally steals the show, you’ve found it! Ready to dive into this sweet little piece of heaven? Let’s get cooking!
What’s in Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes?
Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and oh-so-nutritious, these starchy roots are the stars of the dish. They not only taste amazing but are also packed with vitamins A and C. I like to use medium-sized potatoes for the perfect bite.
Brown Sugar: This adds that deep, caramel-like sweetness that makes these sweet potatoes extra special. Using dark brown sugar gives it even richer flavor!
Unsalted Butter: For that creamy richness that helps balance out the sweetness. Gotta love that buttery goodness, right?
Water: Simple but necessary; it helps create that syrupy glaze.
Ground Cinnamon: A staple spice in my kitchen, cinnamon adds warmth and a little spice that perfectly complements the sweet potatoes.
Nutmeg: Just a pinch amps up the cozy flavor profile. Be careful not to overdo it; a little goes a long way!
Salt: Yes, a little salt enhances the sweetness, creating that perfect balance.
Vanilla Extract: This is optional but highly recommended! A splash of vanilla can elevate the whole dish into something truly divine!
Is Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Good for You?
Well, let’s break it down! While these sweet potatoes certainly qualify as a treat, they do come packed with some health benefits too!
Sweet Potatoes: Aside from being delicious, they’re actually a great source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They can contribute to better digestion and improved eye health. What’s not to love?
Brown Sugar: It’s sugar, yes, but using it in moderation can still add a delightful flavor without overdoing it. I mean, who can resist a good sweet treat every now and then?
However, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes since this dish can be quite rich. Balance it out with some green veggies or a light salad at dinner, and you’ll be good to go!
Ingredients List
– 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into rounds
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
*Serves about 6-8.*
How to Make Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, combine the sliced sweet potatoes, brown sugar, butter, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to combine all those delicious flavors!
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a gentle boil. Be sure to stir occasionally to help dissolve the sugar and melt that butter.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the sweet potatoes simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to start softening up a bit.
5. Transfer the sweet potatoes and syrup to a greased baking dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle that vanilla extract over the top!
6. Cover the dish with foil and pop it into the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
7. After 30 minutes, it’s time to unveil that deliciousness! Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You want the sweet potatoes to be tender and the syrup to thicken up beautifully.
8. When the timer goes off, take a moment to admire your creation, then let them cool slightly before serving!
Sweet Tips & Serving Suggestions
Now, here’s a little secret: these candied sweet potatoes are even better with some toasted pecans or mini marshmallows sprinkled on top before baking! Just imagine biting into that warm, gooey goodness, with a crunch from the pecans or a melt-in-your-mouth marshmallow topping.
They’re ideal for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or just cozy nights at home. Trust me—the moment you serve these, you’ll have everyone asking for the recipe. I can’t wait to hear how you make this dish your own, so please share your experience and any little tweaks you add! Enjoy every sweet bite!
