Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Is there anything more comforting than the sweet, warm aroma of Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes wafting through the house? This classic dish is a Thanksgiving staple, a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings, laughter, and of course, incredibly delicious food. But candied sweet potatoes aren’t just for holidays! They’re a versatile side that brightens up any meal, any time of year. With a luscious, buttery, brown sugar glaze, these sweet potatoes are practically dessert – but healthy enough to be a side dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. Get ready to transform ordinary sweet potatoes into a sweet, sticky, and utterly irresistible treat!

For years, I’ve been perfecting my Southern Candied Sweet Potato recipe, tweaking the spices and adjusting the cooking times to achieve the perfect balance of tenderness and caramelized goodness. I’ve drawn upon my grandmother’s handwritten recipe card, adding my own modern twist to this timeless dish. Sweet potatoes are a seasonal favorite, especially as we head into cooler months, making now the perfect time to share my secrets with you. So, grab your sweet potatoes, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients: The Sweet Potato Symphony

This recipe uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients, but understanding their roles will elevate your candied sweet potatoes to the next level.

• Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show! Look for firm, evenly shaped sweet potatoes with smooth skin. Jewel or garnet varieties are excellent choices due to their vibrant color and sweetness. Did you know that sweet potatoes are packed with Vitamin A and fiber?
• Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. The butter adds richness and helps create the beautiful caramelized glaze.
• Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar can be used, but dark brown sugar will give a richer, more molasses-like flavor. Brown sugar provides sweetness and contributes to the glaze’s depth of color.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps balance the molasses notes of the brown sugar.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall sweetness and adds a warm, inviting aroma. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings a warm, comforting spice that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly. A little goes a long way!
• Nutmeg: A pinch of ground nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
• Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions: Making It Your Own

• Sweet Potatoes: If you don’t have sweet potatoes, you can substitute yams. Just note that yams tend to be less sweet and have a slightly different texture.
• Butter: For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or vegan butter. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
• Brown Sugar: If you’re out of brown sugar, you can make your own by mixing granulated sugar with a tablespoon of molasses per cup of sugar.
• Spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices like ginger, cloves, or allspice.

Expert Tips: The Secret to Perfect Candied Sweet Potatoes

After countless batches of candied sweet potatoes, I’ve learned a few tricks to guarantee success every time.

• Don’t Overcook the Sweet Potatoes: The sweet potatoes should be tender but still hold their shape. Overcooked sweet potatoes will become mushy.
• Use a Large Skillet: A large skillet allows the sweet potatoes to cook evenly and the glaze to caramelize properly.
• Keep an Eye on the Glaze: The glaze can burn easily, so watch it carefully and adjust the heat as needed.
• Basting is Key: Basting the sweet potatoes with the glaze ensures that they are evenly coated and develop a beautiful shine.
• Add a Pinch of Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.

Storage Reheating: Make Ahead Magic

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are even better the next day, making them perfect for holiday meal prep!

• Storage: Store leftover candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or butter if needed to prevent sticking.
• Freezing: Candied sweet potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture may be slightly softer after freezing.

Variations: Sweet Potato Remix

• Pecan Topping: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy topping. Sprinkle them on during the last 15 minutes of baking.
• Maple Syrup Glaze: Substitute maple syrup for some of the brown sugar for a maple-infused flavor.
• Bourbon Glaze: Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the glaze for a sophisticated twist.
• Spiced Glaze: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.

FAQ: Your Candied Sweet Potato Questions Answered

Why are my candied sweet potatoes mushy?

Mushy sweet potatoes are usually the result of overcooking. Be sure to cook the sweet potatoes until they are tender but still firm. Avoid boiling them for too long before adding them to the glaze.

Can I make candied sweet potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Candied sweet potatoes are a great make-ahead dish. Prepare them up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them before serving.

How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

The glaze can burn easily if the heat is too high. Use medium-low heat and watch the glaze carefully. If it starts to thicken too quickly, reduce the heat or add a splash of water.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

While fresh sweet potatoes are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well and reduce the cooking time slightly.

What can I add to make them taste even better?

A pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the warm, comforting flavors. Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of bourbon for an extra layer of complexity. Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch!

Are sweet potatoes and yams the same thing?

While often used interchangeably, sweet potatoes and yams are different vegetables. Sweet potatoes, especially the varieties common in the US, have a reddish-brown skin and orange flesh. Yams have rough, dark brown skin and white flesh. Sweet potatoes are generally sweeter and have a softer texture when cooked.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the butter with coconut oil or your favorite vegan butter alternative. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly. Ensure your chosen butter alternative browns nicely to achieve that caramelised flavour.

Sweet Potato Perfection Awaits

There you have it – my foolproof recipe for Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes! Whether you’re serving them at Thanksgiving dinner or enjoying them as a simple weeknight side, these sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit. This recipe is more than just a list of ingredients and instructions; it’s an invitation to create memories, share good food, and experience the joy of cooking. So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make some sweet potato magic!

Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your candied sweet potatoes turned out! Share your photos on social media and tag me. I can’t wait to see your creations! And for more delicious side dish recipes, be sure to check out my other posts on Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze, Creamy Mac and Cheese, and Green Bean Casserole.

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