The Best Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

There’s something magical about the rich aroma of sweet potatoes caramelizing in butter and spices. Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a true comfort food, evoking memories of family dinners and festive gatherings. These tender, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes are coated in a decadent brown sugar glaze that’s impossible to resist.

The first time I made this recipe, it was for a Thanksgiving dinner where I wanted to capture the nostalgia of my grandmother's kitchen. To my delight, it became the standout dish of the evening! Now, it’s a staple not just for holidays but whenever I’m craving something warm and sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for these soul-soothing sweet potatoes. They’re not only irresistibly delicious but also delightfully easy to make.

First, the flavor profile is perfectly balanced. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes is enhanced with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, creating a harmony of warm, cozy spices.

They’re a time-tested classic. Passed down through generations, this recipe brings an authentic Southern flair to your table, whether it’s for a holiday feast or a casual Sunday dinner.

You’ll also appreciate how simple the process is. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep work, you’ll have a show-stopping side dish that looks and tastes like it took hours.

Finally, this recipe is highly adaptable. Prefer less sugar? Add a touch of honey instead. Want a deeper, richer glaze? Swap some of the sugar for maple syrup or molasses.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to perfect Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes lies in its humble yet powerful ingredients. Let’s dive into what makes each component special.

• Sweet Potatoes: The star of the dish! Look for firm, evenly sized sweet potatoes with smooth skin. These will cook evenly and hold their shape as they absorb the luscious glaze.
• Brown Sugar: For that signature caramelized flavor. Use dark brown sugar if you want a deeper molasses undertone or stick to light brown sugar for a milder sweetness.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is best here, giving the dish richness without adding extra salt. It melds with the sugar to create the ultimate glaze.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices elevate the sweet potatoes, turning them into a dessert-like treat. A pinch of nutmeg goes a long way!
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a hint of depth and rounds out the flavor profile.
• Salt: Just a touch balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.

You won’t need any fancy equipment—just a large skillet or casserole dish to cook the potatoes and plenty of love to pour into this classic recipe.

How To Make Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Making these Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes is as simple as it is rewarding. Let me guide you step-by-step to ensure they turn out perfect every time.

Start by peeling and slicing your sweet potatoes into thick rounds, about ½ inch each. This ensures they cook evenly and hold their shape as they simmer.

Next, in a large skillet or sauté pan, melt your butter over medium heat. Once it’s fully melted and fragrant, add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture forms a smooth, glossy glaze.

Carefully add the sweet potato slices to the pan, arranging them in a single layer if possible. Toss gently to coat each piece in the glaze, ensuring they soak up all that sugary, buttery goodness.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the sweet potatoes cook until tender, about 25-30 minutes. Flip them occasionally to make sure they cook evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, remove the lid and let the glaze thicken for another 5-10 minutes. This final step caramelizes the edges, making the dish utterly irresistible.

Serve them warm, spooning extra glaze over the top for maximum indulgence. These candied sweet potatoes will steal the spotlight on any table!

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, these candied sweet potatoes store beautifully.

• Refrigerator: Let the sweet potatoes cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sweet potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming on the stove.

When reheating, add a splash of water or butter to refresh the glaze and prevent sticking.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the joys of this recipe is how easily it adapts to different tastes and preferences.

• Maple Syrup Glaze: Swap half of the brown sugar for maple syrup for a more complex sweetness with a hint of smokiness.
• Honey-Sweetened: Prefer a less sugary option? Replace the brown sugar with honey or agave syrup for a lighter glaze.
• Spiced Up: Add a dash of ground ginger or cloves to deepen the flavor profile and bring an extra layer of warmth.
• Citrus Twist: A splash of orange juice or zest pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the potatoes, adding a bright, zesty contrast.
• Nutty Topping: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the finished dish for added crunch and a nutty aroma.

Experiment with these variations to create your own version of Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes that your family will treasure.

Whether you’re serving them for a holiday gathering or just because, Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Their rich, caramelized glaze and tender texture are sure to become a favorite in your home—just as they are in mine. Enjoy every sweet, buttery bite!

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