Candied Sweet Potatoes

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Golden, syrupy, and perfectly tender—Candied Sweet Potatoes are the ultimate comfort side dish that brings nostalgic warmth to any holiday table. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, caramelized glaze make them an instant crowd favorite. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy Sunday dinner, this dish adds just the right amount of sweetness and spice.

This Southern classic is simple to prepare but delivers bold flavors. The magic lies in the slow roasting process that allows brown sugar and butter to seep into every slice, turning ordinary sweet potatoes into a decadent treat. A touch of cinnamon and vanilla brings in that cozy, aromatic depth we all crave this time of year.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start peeling and slicing, gather these kitchen essentials to streamline the process and ensure a flawless result:

• Peeler: A sharp vegetable peeler is crucial for removing the skin without wasting too much flesh.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Precision slicing ensures even cooking and presentation.
• Cutting Board: A stable surface makes prep work quicker and safer.
• Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven: Ideal for parboiling sweet potatoes to soften them before baking.
• Oven-safe Baking Dish: A deep ceramic or glass dish allows for even caramelization and contains the syrupy sauce.
• Aluminum Foil: Helps trap steam during baking, resulting in tender slices.
• Mixing Bowl and Whisk: For combining the syrup ingredients smoothly before pouring over the potatoes.

Having the right tools on hand doesn’t just make prep easier—it guarantees that every slice is baked to tender, buttery perfection.

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Ingredients for the Candied Sweet Potatoes

Each ingredient plays an essential role in crafting the deep flavor and glossy finish of these candied sweet potatoes:

• Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show. Their natural sweetness and hearty texture absorb the syrup beautifully.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a rich molasses flavor and creates the sticky caramelized coating.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted butter blends with sugar to form a luscious sauce.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the dessert-like quality of the dish.
• Ground Cinnamon: Provides warmth and depth, complementing the sweet potatoes’ earthy flavor.
• Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and brings out the natural flavors.
• Water or Orange Juice: A liquid base helps dissolve the sugar and adds moisture—orange juice brings a bright twist.

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How To Make the Candied Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Prep and Slice

Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and slicing them into uniform rounds, about 1/2 inch thick. Consistent sizing ensures they cook evenly.

Step 2: Parboil the Potatoes

Place the slices into a large pot of boiling water and parboil for 5-7 minutes. They should be slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Syrup

In a saucepan or mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, and your choice of water or orange juice. Whisk until smooth and well-blended.

Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Layer the parboiled sweet potatoes into a greased baking dish. Pour the syrup evenly over the layers, making sure every slice is coated.

Step 5: Bake to Caramelized Perfection

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the syrup thickens and the tops begin to caramelize.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Let them sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools, creating that irresistible glossy finish.

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Serving and Storing Candied Sweet Potatoes

Candied sweet potatoes are best served warm, straight from the oven when the syrup is still bubbling and the aroma is at its peak. They’re a classic side dish for holiday meals but also a delightful addition to any comfort food spread.

For serving, use a large spoon to scoop generous portions, ensuring each serving has plenty of that luscious sauce. Pair with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a savory vegetarian loaf for a balanced plate.

To store leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until warmed through, or microwave single portions for a quicker fix. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just be sure to use a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?

True yams are starchy and dry, while sweet potatoes are moist and naturally sweet. Most U.S. grocery stores label orange-fleshed sweet potatoes as yams, but they’re actually sweet potatoes.

Can I make candied sweet potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and assemble everything in your baking dish, cover, and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when reheating.

Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar?

You can swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a different flavor profile. It will add a more woodsy, robust sweetness and a slightly thinner glaze.

How do I prevent the syrup from becoming grainy?

Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before baking. Mixing the ingredients while warm helps create a smooth syrup.

Are candied sweet potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, they are naturally gluten-free as long as your added ingredients (like vanilla extract) don’t contain any gluten additives.

Can I add marshmallows on top?

Absolutely! Add marshmallows during the last 10 minutes of baking for a golden, gooey topping.

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Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If these candied sweet potatoes have you craving more comforting and flavorful sides, check out these delicious options from Life With Olivia:

• Scalloped Corn Casserole for a creamy, cheesy classic with golden edges.
• Cheesy Ranch Potatoes when you want indulgence with a savory twist.
• Honey Butter Skillet Corn for that sweet and buttery bite in every spoonful.
• Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet when you want a hearty one-pan side that doubles as dinner.
• Tennessee Onions for a unique blend of cheesy, caramelized goodness.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday or side dish board so you can come back to it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with orange juice or water in the syrup? Maybe added marshmallows on top?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Got questions or tips? Drop them below—let’s help each other cook and share better.

For more sweet and savory kitchen inspiration, follow me on Pinterest at Life With Olivia.

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