Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something magical about the aroma of sweet potatoes baking in the oven, a scent that brings back warm memories of holiday feasts shared with loved ones. My recipe for Candied Sweet Potatoes takes these humble tubers and transforms them into a comforting side dish that’s both simple and elegant. With a glossy caramelized finish and buttery interior, this recipe is not just quick to prepare but also incredibly customizable for any palate. Whether you’re adding a hint of maple syrup or a sprinkle of nutmeg, the versatility of candied sweet potatoes makes them a beloved addition to any meal. What variations are you excited to try in your kitchen? Why are Candied Sweet Potatoes so beloved? Comforting flavors combine in this dish that warms the heart as much as the stomach. Simple to prepare, you can whip up these sweet potatoes in no time, perfect for busy holiday gatherings. Customizable, the recipe invites experimentation—try swapping in maple syrup or a dash of nutmeg for a flavor twist. Crowd-pleaser status is guaranteed; everyone loves the shiny, caramelized exterior paired with the soft, buttery texture. And for those who enjoy a hearty meal, serve them alongside options like Smashed Potato Salad or Cheesy Potato Taquitos for a delightful feast! Candied Sweet Potato Ingredients For your journey to deliciousness, here’s everything you’ll need! For the Sweet Potato Base • Sweet Potatoes – The star of the dish that brings natural sweetness; cut them evenly to ensure they cook perfectly. • Butter – Infuses the dish with richness; switch to vegan butter for a dairy-free delight. For the Sweetening Sauce • Brown Sugar – Adds deep sweetness with a touch of molasses; can be swapped with maple syrup for a unique flavor twist. • Cinnamon – Provides warm, comforting notes; nutmeg could be a delightful substitute for those who love spice. • Maple Syrup – Offers a unique sweetness that elevates the dish; this can replace brown sugar if desired. This Candied Sweet Potato dish is not only quick to prepare but also allows for wonderful adaptations that cater to all taste preferences! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candied Sweet Potato Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a medium-sized baking dish and coat it lightly with butter or oil to prevent sticking. This step ensures that your Candied Sweet Potatoes will bake uniformly and develop that delightful caramelized finish. Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes Peel your sweet potatoes and slice them into half-inch rounds for even cooking. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure all pieces cook at the same rate, blending beautifully in the final dish. At this stage, it’s hard to resist sneaking a taste of the sweet potato for a burst of natural sweetness! Step 3: Create the Sweetening Sauce In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and maple syrup. Stir the mixture well until thoroughly incorporated. This luscious sauce is the heart of your Candied Sweet Potatoes, ensuring each slice will be coated in sweet, aromatic goodness as they bake. Step 4: Toss the Potatoes Gently add the sweet potato slices into the mixing bowl, tossing them carefully to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the sweetening sauce. This step is crucial in maximizing flavor so that your Candied Sweet Potatoes come out deliciously rich and satisfying. Step 5: Arrange and Bake Spread the sweet potato slices in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. Cover the dish with foil to lock in moisture, and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. The covered baking will help soften the potatoes, allowing them to absorb all the sweet flavors. Step 6: Final Bake for Caramelization After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, watching closely as the edges start to caramelize. You’re looking for a tender and beautifully caramelized finish, signaling that your Candied Sweet Potatoes are nearly ready to be served. Step 7: Serve with Residual Sauce Once they’re perfectly baked, drizzle any residual sauce over your Candied Sweet Potatoes before serving. The glossy finish will enhance their allure, enticing everyone at your table. Serve these delicious bites hot to highlight their rich flavor and comforting warmth. Candied Sweet Potato Variations Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine as you explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe! Maple Syrup: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a distinct, rich flavor that elevates your dish. Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for a delightful crunch that complements the smooth sweetness. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the mix for a surprising kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweet potatoes. Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone for a velvety finish that makes every bite indulgent. Fruit Fusion: Incorporate diced apples or pears for a fruity twist; they add juicy surprises in texture and flavor. Live for Vanilla: A splash of vanilla extract in the sweetening sauce gives an aromatic depth that truly facades your taste buds. Citrus Zing: Add zest from an orange or lemon for a bright flavor burst that lightens up the rich sweetness. Caramel Drizzle: For special occasions, drizzle some homemade caramel sauce on top before serving for an extravagant touch. As you experiment with these variations, why not pair your Candied Sweet Potatoes with a delicious Sweet Potato Breakfast Bowl or a hearty BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato to create a memorable meal experience? Enjoy the journey! What to Serve with Deliciously Sweet Baked Candied Sweet Potatoes Elevate your meal with the perfect accompaniments to these sweet, buttery delights that offer comfort and joy. Roast Turkey: The savory flavors of turkey provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the candied sweet potatoes, creating a balanced plate. Glazed Ham: The rich, smoky notes of glazed ham beautifully complement the sweet, caramelized taste, making for a harmonious pairing at festive gatherings. Green Beans Almondine: The crunchy texture and earthy flavor of green beans, topped with toasted almonds, bring a fresh element that brightens the meal’s profile. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: These crispy sprouts add a touch of savory and slight bitterness that perfectly offsets the sweetness of the candied potatoes, balancing flavors beautifully. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce enhances the sweet notes of the sweet potatoes while adding a pop of color and acidity to the meal. Cornbread: The soft, slightly sweet crumb of cornbread pairs perfectly with the richness of the candied sweet potatoes, offering warmth and comfort. Red Wine or Sparkling Cider: A light red wine or a glass of sparkling cider can provide refreshing sips that harmonize well with the dish’s sweet flavor without overwhelming it. Make any gathering unforgettable by combining these pairings with your deliciously sweet baked candied sweet potatoes! How to Store and Freeze Candied Sweet Potato Fridge: Store leftover candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep them moist. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: To enjoy them warm again, reheat from frozen or thawed in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until hot throughout. Serving Freshness: For the best taste, it’s recommended to enjoy candied sweet potatoes fresh, but these storage tips help you keep them delicious for later! Make Ahead Options These Candied Sweet Potatoes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can peel and slice the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance—just store them submerged in cold water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, the sweetening sauce can be mixed ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to finish the dish, simply toss the prepared sweet potatoes in the sauce, arrange them in your baking dish, cover, and bake according to the instructions. This method ensures your Candied Sweet Potatoes retain their delicious quality while allowing you to enjoy a comforting, homemade side with minimal last-minute effort! Expert Tips for Candied Sweet Potatoes Even Slicing: Ensure your sweet potatoes are evenly sliced into half-inch rounds; this guarantees uniform cooking and even caramelization. Watch the Bake: Keep a close eye on the final baking; caramelization is great, but burnt edges are not. Remove from the oven when golden. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different sweeteners, like substituting brown sugar with maple syrup, to keep your Candied Sweet Potatoes exciting and fresh. Texture Additions: For added crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or mini marshmallows on top before baking; they bring a delightful contrast to the soft sweetness. Perfect Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently to maintain moisture; a splash of water helps keep them tender. Candied Sweet Potato Recipe FAQs How do I select the best sweet potatoes? Absolutely! When choosing sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm, smooth, and free of dark spots or blemishes. Smaller sweet potatoes tend to be sweeter and have a creamier texture than larger ones. I recommend selecting those around the same size for uniform cooking. How should I store leftover candied sweet potatoes? Very! Store any leftover candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is simple—just warm them on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep them tender and moist. Can I freeze candied sweet potatoes? Yes, you can! To freeze, place cooled candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container or freezer bags. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. What if my candied sweet potatoes aren’t caramelizing? No worries! If they aren’t caramelizing as expected, ensure your oven is at the right temperature and that you’ve removed the foil during the last stage of baking. For added flavor and caramelization, you can also drizzle a bit more maple syrup or brown sugar over them before the final bake. Are candied sweet potatoes safe for dogs? Very! Sweet potatoes are generally safe for dogs in moderation. However, avoid adding sugar or butter to their portions, as these can be harmful. Always consult with your vet if you’re unsure about introducing any new food. Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with vegan butter or a neutral oil like coconut or avocado oil. This way, you can enjoy delicious candied sweet potatoes while keeping them dairy-free and just as tasty! Sweet and Buttery Candied Sweet Potato Bliss for Holidays No ratings yet Enjoy the comforting flavors of Candied Sweet Potatoes, perfect for holiday feasts and easily customizable. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 220 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sweet Potato Base4 medium Sweet Potatoes Cut into half-inch rounds1/2 cup Butter Can substitute with vegan butterFor the Sweetening Sauce1 cup Brown Sugar Can substitute with maple syrup1 teaspoon Cinnamon Nutmeg can be used as a substitute1/4 cup Maple Syrup Optional Equipment Ovenbaking dishMixing Bowlknifecutting board Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Candied Sweet PotatoPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and coat a medium-sized baking dish with butter or oil.Peel and slice sweet potatoes into half-inch rounds for even cooking.In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and maple syrup.Gently toss sweet potato slices in the sweetening sauce until evenly coated.Spread the potato slices in a single layer, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes.Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until caramelized.Drizzle any residual sauce over the potatoes before serving hot. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 18900IUVitamin C: 22mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 0.7mg NotesEnsure even slicing for uniform cooking. Experiment with different sweeteners and toppings like pecans or mini marshmallows. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
