If you’re searching for a comforting, sweet, and warmly spiced side dish that feels like a cozy hug on your plate, this Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect blend of buttery richness, natural sweetness from tender sweet potatoes, and those classic Southern spices that make every bite irresistible. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a special family dinner, these candied sweet potatoes add a burst of flavor and a touch of tradition to your table that’s simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all it takes to whip up this soulful Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role, from creating that luscious syrup to infusing warm, aromatic spices that elevate the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
- 2 cups white sugar: Provides the sweet, glossy coating that caramelizes into a rich syrup.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy depth that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a subtle, nutty spice for a complex flavor profile.
- 1 pinch salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other spices’ flavors.
- 1/2 cup butter: Creates a silky base and that indulgent buttery flavor so essential to this dish.
- 6 sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced: The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and tender texture.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds a final touch of aromatic sweetness to round out the dish.
How to Make Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Sugar and Spices
Start by mixing the white sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This dry mix is the flavor foundation for your Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe, and blending the spices evenly ensures every bite sings with warmth and sweetness.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Coat Sweet Potatoes
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s bubbling with delicious aroma. Add your peeled and sliced sweet potatoes, stirring well so each slice is thoroughly coated in that golden, buttery goodness.
Step 3: Sprinkle Sugar-Spice Mixture
Sprinkle your carefully mixed sugar and spices over the buttered sweet potatoes. Gently stir to coat the slices evenly, which helps the sugar begin to dissolve and meld with the butter, setting the stage for that signature candied glaze.
Step 4: Cover and Simmer on Low Heat
Place a lid on your skillet and reduce the heat to low. This low and slow cooking lets the sweet potatoes soak up all the buttery, sugary flavors while gently softening without turning mushy, a key step for that perfect texture in your Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe.
Step 5: Cook Until Candied and Tender
Let the sweet potatoes cook for about an hour, stirring occasionally. You’ll know they’re ready when the sauce turns a dark, syrupy caramel and the potatoes are tender yet maintain a slight firmness around the edges, giving you that heavenly contrast in every mouthful.
Step 6: Add Vanilla and Serve
Finally, stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant, sweet finish. This little touch elevates the dish by adding depth and complexity that feels like a warm whisper of Southern hospitality. Serve immediately and prepare for compliments!
How to Serve Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Although the Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe shines on its own, a few creative garnishes can take it to the next level. A sprinkle of toasted pecans adds crunch and nuttiness, while a scattering of fresh chopped parsley introduces a pop of color and freshness, balancing the richness.
Side Dishes
Classic Southern meals shine with candied sweet potatoes on the side. They pair wonderfully with honey-glazed ham, roast turkey, or even simple grilled chicken. For a full Southern spread, add creamy macaroni and cheese or collard greens for a traditional, soul-warming feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe in a rustic cast iron skillet straight from stove to table for a cozy, homestyle vibe. Alternatively, layer the sweet potatoes in a shallow baking dish and top with mini marshmallows, then broil briefly for a gourmet twist that nods to sweet potato casserole traditions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. The candied sweet potatoes hold their texture well, and the flavors deepen after resting, making them even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the sweet potatoes if you want to save them for a longer period. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. They’ll keep nicely for up to three months, ready to thaw and brighten your meal when needed.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the luscious syrup and texture. You can also warm them in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Be cautious not to overheat to avoid drying out or toughening the sweet potatoes.
FAQs
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Absolutely! Brown sugar adds a richer, molasses-like depth that pairs beautifully with the spices, giving a slightly different but equally delicious version of your Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe.
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
Yes, peeling results in a smooth texture and allows the syrup to coat the slices evenly, giving you that classic candied consistency you expect from this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. The flavors will still be wonderfully rich and satisfying.
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?
The sweet potatoes should be tender with a slight firmness around the edges, and the sauce should be dark and syrupy. Cooking for around an hour on low heat usually achieves this perfect balance.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a holiday meal?
Definitely! You can prepare the dish a day ahead and reheat gently before serving. This saves time during busy celebrations while still delivering all the comforting flavors of the Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe.
Final Thoughts
Making Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe at home is like inviting a bit of Southern warmth and tradition to your dining table. Simple to prepare yet bursting with comforting, nostalgic flavors, this dish promises to be a new favorite for your family and guests. Don’t hesitate to try it soon—you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds!
Print
Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes recipe offers a deliciously rich and sweet side dish featuring tender sweet potatoes coated in a buttery, spiced sugar glaze. Perfect for holiday meals or comforting everyday dinners, these candied sweet potatoes are slow-cooked in a skillet to develop a deep, caramelized flavor with warm cinnamon and nutmeg spices.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 pinch salt
- 1/2 cup butter
- 6 sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Mix Sugar and Spices: In a small bowl, combine the white sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will create the sweet and aromatic coating for the potatoes.
- Melt Butter and Coat Potatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the peeled and sliced sweet potatoes, stirring gently to ensure they are fully coated with the butter.
- Add Sugar Mixture: Sprinkle the prepared sugar and spice mixture evenly over the butter-coated sweet potatoes. Stir well to distribute the sugar blend throughout the potatoes.
- Cover and Reduce Heat: Cover the skillet with a lid and turn the heat down to low to allow slow cooking without burning the sugar.
- Cook Until Candied: Cook the sweet potatoes for approximately 1 hour, stirring occasionally. During this time, the sauce will darken and thicken, candied around the potatoes which should become tender but retain a slight firmness around the edges.
- Add Vanilla and Serve: Stir in the tablespoon of vanilla extract for a final touch of flavor, then serve the candied sweet potatoes warm as a delightful side dish.
Notes
- Use a large heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent scorching during the slow cooking process.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and even caramelization.
- Adjust cooking time slightly if sweet potatoes are cut thicker or thinner.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest along with the vanilla extract.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or a holiday turkey dinner.
