Unlock the Secret to Perfect Candied Sweet Potatoes – Easy Recipe Inside!

Lais
Feb 10
4 min read

How to Make Delicious Candied Sweet Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Candied sweet potatoes are a classic side dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a rich, sugary glaze. This recipe is perfect for holiday dinners, special occasions, or simply as a comforting side to your everyday meals. In this guide, we will take you through the steps to prepare the best candied sweet potatoes, and share the ingredients you'll need to create this mouthwatering dish.

What Are Candied Sweet Potatoes?

Candied sweet potatoes are sweet potatoes that are cooked with a syrupy mixture made from brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and other ingredients that enhance their flavor. The result is a sticky, caramelized coating that turns the sweet potatoes into a delightful treat.

Ingredients for Candied Sweet Potatoes

To make the perfect candied sweet potatoes, you'll need the following ingredients:

4 medium-sized sweet potatoes
1/2 cup of unsalted butter
3/4 cup of packed brown sugar
1/4 cup of maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg (optional)
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/2 cup of chopped pecans (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Candied Sweet Potatoes

Follow these easy steps to prepare the most delicious candied sweet potatoes:

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by peeling and slicing the sweet potatoes into 1-inch thick rounds or cubes, depending on your preference. The size of the pieces will affect the cooking time, so make sure they are consistent in size.

Step 2: Boil the Sweet Potatoes

Place the sweet potato pieces in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat, and cook the sweet potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender but not falling apart. Drain the water and set the sweet potatoes aside.

Step 3: Make the Candied Syrup

In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), vanilla extract, and salt. Stir the mixture together and allow it to simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.

Step 4: Coat the Sweet Potatoes

Add the boiled sweet potatoes to the pan with the candied syrup. Stir gently to ensure that each piece of sweet potato is coated evenly with the syrup. Let the sweet potatoes simmer in the syrup for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken and coat the potatoes perfectly.

Step 5: Add Pecans (Optional)

If you'd like to add some extra crunch and flavor to your candied sweet potatoes, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top of the dish. Allow them to cook for a few more minutes, giving them time to toast and become fragrant.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the sweet potatoes are fully coated in the candied syrup, and the pecans are toasted (if used), remove the dish from the heat. Serve the candied sweet potatoes hot, and enjoy the sweet, caramelized flavor in every bite!

Tips for the Best Candied Sweet Potatoes

To make your candied sweet potatoes even more special, here are a few tips:

For a richer flavor, try using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
If you want a more intense maple flavor, you can increase the amount of maple syrup.
You can also add marshmallows to your candied sweet potatoes for a fun, traditional twist.
If you like a thicker glaze, cook the syrup longer to reduce it before adding the sweet potatoes.

Why You Should Try This Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

This recipe for candied sweet potatoes is a perfect blend of natural sweetness and rich flavors. Whether you're serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just as a weeknight dinner side, it will surely become a crowd-pleaser. The simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is both comforting and indulgent, making it a great choice for any occasion.

Variations of Candied Sweet Potatoes

While this recipe is delicious on its own, you can also customize your candied sweet potatoes with various additions:

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat.
Top with mini marshmallows and broil for a golden-brown topping.
Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut.

FAQ: All About Candied Sweet Potatoes

1. What are Candied Sweet Potatoes?

Candied sweet potatoes are a delicious dish where sweet potatoes are cooked in a rich syrup made of brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and maple syrup. The syrup creates a sweet, caramelized glaze that enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.

2. Can I make Candied Sweet Potatoes in advance?

Yes! You can prepare candied sweet potatoes a day before your event. Simply cook them, let them cool, and store them in the refrigerator. Before serving, reheat in the oven for about 20 minutes, and enjoy the caramelized sweetness just like fresh.

3. How can I thicken the syrup for Candied Sweet Potatoes?

If you want a thicker syrup for your candied sweet potatoes, simmer the syrup mixture for a few extra minutes before adding the sweet potatoes. The longer you cook it, the thicker the glaze will become, giving your sweet potatoes an even more decadent coating.

4. Can I add nuts to my Candied Sweet Potatoes?

Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts is a great way to enhance the flavor and texture of your candied sweet potatoes. The crunchiness pairs wonderfully with the sweet, sticky glaze, creating a delightful contrast in each bite.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Candied Sweet Potatoes

Making candied sweet potatoes is easy and incredibly rewarding. By following this step-by-step guide, you'll have a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish that can be enjoyed at any meal. With the right balance of sweetness and a touch of warmth from the spices, candied sweet potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Try out this recipe today and watch it become a new favorite in your home!

TAGs

Caramelized sweet potatoes
Sweet potato recipe
Easy candied sweet potatoes
How to make candied sweet potatoes
Brown sugar glazed sweet potatoes
Maple syrup sweet potatoes
Thanksgiving sweet potatoes
Sweet potato side dish
Holiday sweet potato recipes
Pecan candied sweet potatoes