The Best Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

There's something magical about the aroma of Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes filling the kitchen. The rich, buttery caramelized glaze paired with tender sweet potatoes is a classic dish that instantly brings comfort and nostalgia. Whether served at holiday gatherings or as a side dish for Sunday dinner, this recipe is always a hit.

this Recipe

I first fell in love with candied sweet potatoes at my grandmother's table, where every slice was coated in a glossy, syrupy glaze that tasted like home. Now, I've perfected a version that's easy to make yet holds true to those timeless Southern flavors. Let’s dive into the recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Get ready to swoon over this sweet and buttery masterpiece. Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a perfect mix of comfort food and elegance, making them a standout dish for any occasion.

First, this recipe is incredibly simple to make. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dish that tastes like it took hours of careful preparation. It's perfect for those who want big flavor without the fuss.

The taste is pure Southern charm. Each bite offers tender slices of sweet potatoes coated in a decadent glaze made from butter, brown sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It's a crowd-pleaser every time.

Plus, these sweet potatoes pair beautifully with just about any meal. From roasted turkey on Thanksgiving to fried chicken on a weeknight, their versatility is unmatched.

Finally, this dish is make-ahead friendly. Prepare them a day in advance and simply reheat before serving. It’s a lifesaver during busy holiday meal prep!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, classic ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that signature Southern flavor.

• Sweet Potatoes: The star of the dish! Look for firm, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (often labeled as yams in grocery stores). Their natural sweetness and creamy texture are ideal for this recipe.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for the best control over flavor. Butter is the base of the glaze, giving it a rich, velvety texture.
• Brown Sugar: For that deep, caramel-like sweetness, light brown sugar works beautifully. If you prefer a more molasses-forward flavor, dark brown sugar is a great option.
• Spices: Ground cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and depth to the dish. A pinch of clove or allspice can also be added for extra spice complexity.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely aromatic note.
• Water or Orange Juice: A bit of liquid helps the sugar melt into a syrup. Orange juice adds a subtle citrus brightness that complements the potatoes.

Special Equipment: You’ll need a large skillet or baking dish to cook the sweet potatoes evenly and allow the glaze to thicken to perfection.

How to Make Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Crafting these sweet potatoes is simpler than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes

Peel and slice 4-5 medium sweet potatoes into ¼-inch thick rounds. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking. Set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a large skillet, melt ½ cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in ¾ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is bubbly, about 2-3 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ¼ cup of water or orange juice, stirring to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Add the sweet potato slices to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they’re coated in the glaze. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the potatoes cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring gently every 5-7 minutes to prevent sticking and to coat them evenly in the syrup.

Step 4: Caramelize

Once the potatoes are tender, uncover the skillet and increase the heat to medium. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken and caramelize slightly. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the candied sweet potatoes to a serving dish and drizzle any remaining glaze over the top. Serve warm and enjoy the irresistible flavor!

Storage Options

These sweet potatoes are just as delicious the next day, making them perfect for leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the glaze.
• Freezer: Place the cooked and cooled sweet potatoes in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating Tips: To revive their original texture and flavor, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to get creative! Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Honey Glaze: Swap out some of the brown sugar for honey to add floral notes to the glaze.
• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the sweet potatoes during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a crunchy topping.
• Spiced Rum Twist: Add a tablespoon of spiced rum to the glaze for a grown-up flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the warm spices.
• Citrus Kick: Double down on the orange juice and add some orange zest for a brighter, tangier glaze.
• Healthier Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and reduce the brown sugar slightly for a lighter take on the classic recipe.

No matter how you customize them, these Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are sure to become a beloved part of your recipe rotation. Go ahead and give them a try – your taste buds will thank you!

Print