Ah, southern candied sweet potatoes! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, and it’s steeped in the rich traditions of Southern cuisine. Growing up, I remember my grandmother making these sweet, syrupy delights for family gatherings, and the smell that filled the kitchen was simply irresistible. Each bite is a perfect blend of tender sweet potatoes coated in a luscious glaze that’s both sweet and comforting. It’s one of those recipes that brings people together and warms the heart—trust me, there’s something magical about the way they taste, especially when they’re served warm. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, these sweet potatoes always steal the show. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you, so let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
To make these delicious southern candied sweet potatoes, you’ll need some simple, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
These ingredients come together to create that delightful syrup that makes this dish so special. Trust me, you won’t want to skip any of them! Each one adds to the overall flavor and comfort of this classic recipe.
How to Prepare Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to prepare these mouthwatering southern candied sweet potatoes! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll have them baking in no time. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious side dish!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your sweet potatoes will cook evenly and get that beautiful caramelization as they bake. Trust me, the smell of sweet potatoes and spices will have you dreaming of fall!
Step 2: Prepare the Syrup
In a large pot, combine the water, packed brown sugar, unsalted butter, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Stir it all together and bring this glorious mixture to a boil over medium heat. You’ll want to keep an eye on it because once it starts bubbling, it’s time to move on to the next step. The aroma will be absolutely divine!
Step 3: Coat the Sweet Potatoes
Once your syrup is boiling, it’s time to add the sliced sweet potatoes. Gently stir them in to ensure they’re well-coated with that luscious syrup. I always find it satisfying to see the sweet potatoes getting that beautiful glaze—such a treat for the eyes!
Step 4: Bake the Dish
Now, transfer the sweet potatoes and syrup into a baking dish. Spread them out evenly, and pop them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is key, as it allows the sweet potatoes to soak up that syrupy goodness evenly. Just imagine how they’ll look and smell as they bake!
Step 5: Check for Tenderness
After 45 minutes, take a moment to check for tenderness. You can do this by poking a sweet potato slice with a fork; it should be soft and easily pierced. If they need a little more time, don’t hesitate to pop them back in for a few more minutes. You want them perfectly tender and coated in that sweet glaze before serving!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to adore these southern candied sweet potatoes! Here are just a few that make this recipe a must-try:
- Quick preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to bake in no time.
- Comforting flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and warm spices creates a cozy, heartwarming taste that feels like home.
- Versatile dish: Whether you serve them as a side for your favorite protein or enjoy them as a sweet dessert, they fit perfectly in any meal.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the sweet, sticky goodness of these sweet potatoes!
- Perfect for gatherings: This recipe is always a hit at holiday dinners, potlucks, or family get-togethers—everyone will be coming back for seconds!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your own twist by incorporating different spices or a splash of vanilla for extra flavor!
Honestly, once you try these sweet potatoes, you’ll understand why they’re such a cherished part of Southern cuisine. They’re truly a delightful addition to any meal!
Tips for Success
To make sure your southern candied sweet potatoes turn out perfectly every time, here are some of my top tips and tricks! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can take your dish to the next level:
- Choose the right sweet potatoes: Go for firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for the best texture. I love the vibrant orange ones for that extra sweetness!
- Don’t rush the syrup: Make sure to let the syrup come to a nice boil before adding the sweet potatoes. This helps to dissolve the sugar properly and infuse all those lovely spices.
- Stir occasionally: As the sweet potatoes bake, give them a gentle stir every now and then. This ensures they’re evenly coated in that glorious syrup and helps them caramelize beautifully.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a splash of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor. You can also mix in a pinch of ginger or a dash of bourbon for a fun twist!
- Serve warm: These sweet potatoes are best served warm. If they cool down, just pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up again—trust me, it’s worth it!
These tips will not only boost your confidence in the kitchen but also ensure that your southern candied sweet potatoes are a hit every time. Now, let’s get cooking and make some magic happen!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to southern candied sweet potatoes, you might be wondering about the nutritional values. Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s all about balance, and if you ask me, enjoying a serving of these sweet, syrupy delights now and then is definitely worth it! So go ahead and indulge a little—you deserve it!
FAQ About Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
It’s always great to have a few questions answered before diving into a new recipe, especially one as beloved as southern candied sweet potatoes! Here are some common queries I’ve come across, along with my thoughts:
Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! While they’re often confused, yams and sweet potatoes can both work in this recipe. Just keep in mind that yams tend to be starchier and less sweet, so the final flavor might differ a bit. But hey, if you love yams, go for it!
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can! If you want to make your life easier, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and syrup ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready to serve, pop them in the oven and bake as directed. They’ll still be delicious!
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with granulated sugar. Just add a little extra molasses or honey to mimic that rich flavor of brown sugar. It’ll still taste great, so don’t worry!
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?
The best way to check is by poking them with a fork. They should be soft and easy to pierce. If they’re still firm, give them a little more time in the oven. You want that perfect tender texture for maximum enjoyment!
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can! To make vegan southern candied sweet potatoes, simply swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative. You can also use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a delicious twist. It’s a great way to keep the flavors while accommodating dietary preferences!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of water or more syrup to keep them moist!
I hope these FAQs help you feel ready to tackle this recipe! If you have any other questions, just ask! I’m here to help you make the best southern candied sweet potatoes ever.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
When it comes to storing your delicious southern candied sweet potatoes, you’ll want to keep them fresh and flavorful! Here’s how to do it:
- Storing leftovers: Allow the sweet potatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re sealed tight to lock in that sweet, syrupy goodness!
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, simply pop them back in the oven. Preheat it to about 350°F (175°C) and place the sweet potatoes in an oven-safe dish. If they seem a bit dry, you can add a splash of water or a little extra syrup to keep them moist.
- Microwave option: If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat them in the microwave! Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Just be careful not to overheat, or they might get a little mushy!
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll ensure that your southern candied sweet potatoes remain as delightful as the day you made them. Trust me, they’re just as good the second time around, and nobody will complain about leftovers of this tasty dish!
Print
Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes: 5 Reasons You’ll Love Them
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Southern candied sweet potatoes are a classic dish featuring tender sweet potatoes glazed in a rich syrup.
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, combine water, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Add sweet potatoes and stir to coat.
- Transfer the sweet potatoes and syrup to a baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check for tenderness and adjust baking time as needed.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract.
- Serve warm as a side dish or dessert.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: southern candied sweet potatoes