Why Make This Recipe
Candied Sweet Potatoes are a classic dish that brings comfort and sweetness to any meal. The combination of soft, buttery sweet potatoes coated in a syrupy glaze is utterly irresistible. This recipe is perfect for festive gatherings or family dinners and is a wonderful way to enjoy the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Moreover, this dish is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for those who are more experienced in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious side dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Equipment Needed for Candied Sweet Potatoes
To prepare Candied Sweet Potatoes, you will need a few basic kitchen tools. First, a peeler is necessary for removing the skin from the sweet potatoes. A sharp knife and cutting board will help you slice the potatoes into even pieces.
Additionally, a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or any 3-quart dish is essential for baking the sweet potatoes. You will also need a medium saucepan for making the syrup. Lastly, a spatula or wooden spoon will help you toss the sweet potatoes and coat them evenly with the sauce.
What You Need to Make Candied Sweet Potatoes
- 5-6 medium sweet potatoes (3-4 lbs)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter
- 1 Tablespoon (15ml) water
- 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup
- 1 cup (200g) packed light or dark brown sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Optional: 2 teaspoons orange zest
- Optional for garnish: chopped fresh or dried rosemary, flaky sea salt
How to Cook Candied Sweet Potatoes Step by Step
Begin by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into 1/2 inch thick slices. Place these slices into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Sprinkle the salt over the sweet potatoes and toss to coat them well with the salt.
Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C). This will allow the sweet potatoes to bake perfectly. Take a stick of unsalted butter and cut it in half; this makes it easier for the butter to melt when cooking.
In a medium saucepan, combine the two halves of the butter, water, maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture until the butter has melted completely. It’s important to stop stirring once the mixture begins to boil gently. Allow it to boil for 2 minutes without stirring, which helps develop the flavors.
Once the boiling time is complete, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the pure vanilla extract, and if you’re using it, add in the orange zest as well. This addition provides a bright flavor to the sweet potatoes that harmonizes perfectly with the spices.
Pour the butter mixture over the sweet potatoes in the baking dish. Carefully toss the sweet potatoes to ensure they are coated well with the sauce.
Bake the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 1 hour. It’s important to stop every 20 minutes to stir the sweet potatoes. After the first 20 minutes of baking, cover the dish with aluminum foil. This helps the sweet potatoes to bake evenly and prevents them from drying out.
Once the hour is complete, remove the dish from the oven. If using, sprinkle fresh or dried rosemary and flaky sea salt on top of the sweet potatoes for added flavor. Allow the sweet potatoes to cool uncovered for about 10 minutes before serving. You’ll notice that the sauce may be thin right out of the oven but will thicken as it cools.
If you have any leftovers, cover them and store them in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 1 week. The sauce will be thick after refrigeration, but it will thin out again as you warm the leftovers in the microwave.
How to Make Candied Sweet Potatoes
Candied Sweet Potatoes are made by cooking sliced sweet potatoes in a buttery syrup until they become tender and infused with sweetness. This recipe starts with peeling and slicing the sweet potatoes into even pieces, which helps them cook uniformly. After placing them in a greased baking dish, you will season them slightly with salt.
The next step involves preparing the syrup. Melted butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup create a sweet glaze that blends harmoniously with various spices for a delightful taste. The thickening of the sauce as the dish cools adds to the overall texture and enjoyment.
It’s essential to monitor the baking process closely by stirring every 20 minutes for even cooking. This makes sure every slice is coated in that luscious syrup, resulting in a deliciously sweet side dish that complements various meals.
How to Serve Candied Sweet Potatoes
When it comes to serving Candied Sweet Potatoes, presentation is key. Transfer the sweet potatoes from the baking dish to a serving platter, allowing some of the glaze to drizzle over the top. This creates an inviting appearance that is sure to catch everyone’s eye.
For garnishing, sprinkle fresh or dried rosemary on top for a touch of color and flavor enhancement. Flaky sea salt can also be added for an extra burst of taste. Serve the sweet potatoes warm as a side dish alongside your main course.
These sweet potatoes pair exceptionally well with roasted meats, turkey, or ham. They can also be a fantastic addition to holiday feasts, bringing a touch of sweetness to the table.
What to Serve with Candied Sweet Potatoes
Candied Sweet Potatoes are a versatile side that can complement many dishes. They work beautifully alongside roasted turkey or glazed ham, providing a contrast to the savory flavors of the meat.
Consider serving them with other robust side dishes such as green beans or Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal. You could also add a refreshing salad to the mix to lighten up the plate.
For those who celebrate special occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas, pairing this sweet dish with stuffing, gravy, and cranberry sauce is a classic combination that everyone will love.
How to Store Candied Sweet Potatoes
To store any leftover Candied Sweet Potatoes, allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer the potatoes into an airtight container or cover the baking dish with tight plastic wrap or foil. This will help keep them fresh for longer.
You can keep these sweet potatoes in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through. The sauce may have thickened after refrigeration, but it will thin out as it heats.
For optimal texture and flavor, avoid storing Candied Sweet Potatoes at room temperature for more than 2 hours after cooking. This ensures that they remain delicious and safe to eat.
Tips to Make Candied Sweet Potatoes
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Candied Sweet Potatoes turn out perfectly every time. First, try to slice the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking. The 1/2 inch thick slices work best for achieving that tender texture.
When preparing the syrup, don’t skip the boiling step. Allowing it to boil helps blend the ingredients together and creates a thick, flavorful sauce.
If you prefer a stronger spice profile, feel free to adjust the amounts of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to your taste. Experimenting with different spices can create a unique twist on this classic dish.
For those looking to add a fresh, zesty note, consider incorporating different citrus zests like lemon or lime instead of orange.
Variation
If you’re looking for variations to the classic Candied Sweet Potatoes, consider adding chopped nuts for a bit of crunch. Pecans or walnuts can be added to the sweet potatoes before baking for added texture and flavor.
Alternatively, you could turn this dish into a dessert by adding mini marshmallows on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. They’ll melt and create a gooey, sweet topping that will delight anyone with a sweet tooth.
Another fun twist is to use different types of sweeteners, like brown sugar or honey, instead of maple syrup. Each option gives a slightly different flavor profile.
Best Time to Make Candied Sweet Potatoes
Candied Sweet Potatoes are ideal for any time you want a comforting side dish. However, they shine particularly during the holiday season. Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners are perfect occasions for this sweet treat.
Moreover, warm, candied sweet potatoes can enhance any family gathering or celebration. They are an excellent addition to brunches, potlucks, or even summer barbecues.
Thanks to their sweet flavor, they can also make a lovely compliment to fall meals. This delicious side dish is sure to be a hit during harvest season.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Candied Sweet Potatoes, there are a few common mistakes to be aware of. One of the biggest errors is not cutting the potatoes evenly. Uneven slices can lead to some pieces being undercooked or overcooked, so strive for uniformity.
Another mistake is not allowing the sauce to reach a gentle boil. Failing to boil for the recommended time can result in a runny glaze that doesn’t coat the sweet potatoes well.
Lastly, be cautious with the baking time. If the sweet potatoes are baked for too long without stirring, they can become mushy. Make sure to monitor them closely and stir every 20 minutes for the best results.
Nutritional Notes
Candied Sweet Potatoes can be a healthy and satisfying addition to your meals. Sweet potatoes are high in vitamins A and C and provide dietary fiber. The addition of butter and sugar brings in some calories, so moderation is key.
If you want to lighten the recipe, consider reducing the amount of sugar or using a sugar substitute. You can also replace butter with a healthier fat source, but keep in mind that this may change the texture and flavor slightly.
FAQs
Can I prepare Candied Sweet Potatoes in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sweet potatoes in advance, store them in the fridge, and bake them just before serving. This saves time for busy holiday meals.
Can I freeze Candied Sweet Potatoes?
While freezing is possible, it may change the texture of the sweet potatoes. If you want to freeze them, make sure they are well-cooled before you package them.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
The microwave is the easiest way to reheat Candied Sweet Potatoes. You can also heat them in the oven at a low temperature until warm. Just be careful not to dry them out.
Conclusion
Candied Sweet Potatoes are more than just a side dish; they are a comforting and sweet addition to any meal. With their rich flavor and tender texture, they are perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
This simple recipe—with its few ingredients and straightforward directions—makes it easy for anyone to create this delicious dish at home. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, adding Candied Sweet Potatoes to your table will surely bring joy and satisfaction to everyone who enjoys them.
