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Candied Sweet Potatoes

Candied Sweet Potatoes
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Candied Sweet Potatoes are a tender, caramelized side dish with a sweet and buttery glaze enhanced by cinnamon and vanilla. Perfect for holidays or everyday meals, this easy recipe combines simple pantry ingredients to create a warm, flavorful, and irresistibly glossy dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats and grains.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 medium-sized firm sweet potatoes
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2–3 tablespoons water or orange juice (optional)

Optional Variations & Garnishes

  • Toasted pecans or walnuts (for nutty crunch)
  • Maple syrup (as alternative to brown sugar)
  • Pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger (for added spice)
  • Coconut oil (vegan butter substitute)
  • Fresh orange zest (for citrus twist)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks or slices about one-inch thick to ensure even cooking and tender texture.
  2. Make the Glaze: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined and slightly thickened. Add a splash of water or orange juice if a thinner glaze is desired.
  3. Combine and Simmer: Place the sweet potatoes in a large skillet or baking dish and pour the glaze on top. Gently toss to coat. Simmer the mixture over low heat for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the potatoes are soft and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
  4. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat once tender and glazed. Optionally sprinkle with toasted nuts or fresh herbs. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Notes

  • Cut sweet potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
  • Simmer glaze gently on low heat to prevent burning and achieve perfect caramelization.
  • Use freshly ground cinnamon for a more aromatic flavor.
  • Don’t skip adding salt to balance the sweetness.
  • Adjust glaze thickness by gradually adding liquid to avoid soggy potatoes.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze cooked candied sweet potatoes for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to preserve glaze texture and softness.

Nutrition

Keywords: candied sweet potatoes, holiday side dish, caramelized sweet potatoes, easy sweet potato recipe, vegan candied sweet potatoes, sweet potato glaze, casserole side dish

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/candied-sweet-potatoes/