Candied Sweet Potatoes

Name: Candied Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Isabella

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These candied sweet potatoes are a delightful and irresistible side dish, perfect for any holiday meal or when I’m craving something comforting. The sweet and sticky glaze, made with brown sugar and maple syrup, infuses the tender sweet potatoes with a delicious flavor. Whether served at a family gathering or just for a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy my taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and warmth. The rich syrup mixture, combined with the earthy taste of sweet potatoes, creates a harmonious flavor that’s both comforting and festive. The optional pecans add a delightful crunch, giving the dish extra texture. Plus, the recipe is simple and quick, making it easy to prepare for any occasion.

Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/4 cup maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

I place the sweet potato cubes in a large pot of water and bring it to a boil. I cook them for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender. Then, I drain them and set them aside.

In a medium saucepan, I melt the butter over medium heat. I add the brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. I stir and cook the mixture for about 3-5 minutes, until it’s smooth and slightly thickened.

I add the cooked sweet potatoes to the saucepan and gently toss them to coat them evenly in the syrup mixture.

I transfer the sweet potatoes to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and pour any remaining syrup over the top.

I sprinkle chopped pecans on top if I desire.

I bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the syrup has thickened into a glaze.

After removing the dish from the oven, I let it cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

I can swap out the pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds, depending on what I have on hand.

If I want to make this recipe a bit more indulgent, I could add a handful of mini marshmallows during the last 10 minutes of baking for a marshmallow topping.

For a bit of a twist, I can try using honey instead of maple syrup to create a different kind of sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

To store leftovers, I let the candied sweet potatoes cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I want to reheat, I pop them in the microwave or place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through.

Related Recipes:

Candied Pecans

FAQs

How do I know when the sweet potatoes are tender enough?

I test the sweet potatoes by poking them with a fork. They should be easy to pierce but not mushy. It’s important to not overcook them during the boiling step, as they’ll finish cooking in the oven.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When I’m ready to serve, I can bake it as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if needed.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

While sweet potatoes are the best choice for this recipe, I could experiment with other varieties like yams or even regular potatoes. However, the flavor and texture might not be quite the same.

Can I adjust the sweetness level?

If I prefer a less sweet dish, I can reduce the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup used in the recipe. Alternatively, if I like it extra sweet, I can add a little more.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, I can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and ensure the maple syrup I use is vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

Candied sweet potatoes are a timeless dish that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of sweetness to any meal. Whether it’s for a holiday dinner or a weeknight treat, this recipe is easy to make and sure to be a hit. I love how simple the ingredients are and how quickly they come together for a dish that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked all day.