Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
Embracing Southern Comfort: Candied Sweet Potatoes
There’s something irresistibly comforting about Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes. This delightful fall side dish features thick slices of sweet potato blanketed in a rich butter and sugar mixture, then baked to tender perfection. Infused with hints of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and vanilla, these sweet potatoes bring a touch of warmth to any holiday meal or Sunday dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this recipe for its simplicity and the way it captures the essence of the season. Using just a handful of ingredients, it delivers a dish that feels both indulgent and homey. Plus, sweet potatoes are in season during the fall, making them both fresh and affordable.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Peeler
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 4 to 5 medium to large sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Salt, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into thick rounds. Arrange them in a 9×13-inch baking dish; use as many as you can fit.
- Lightly sprinkle salt over the sweet potato slices.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the butter and sugar mixture over the sweet potatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, baste the sweet potatoes with the butter sauce, and return to the oven uncovered for another 30 minutes.
- Once done, the sweet potatoes should be tender and caramelized around the edges. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure to slice the sweet potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Basting them with the sauce halfway through cooking helps to enhance their flavor and caramelization.
Additional Tips and Variations
Consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, or topping the finished dish with chopped pecans for added crunch. Leftovers are delicious and can be enjoyed as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 25g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and sauce a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them before baking.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative to make this dish vegan-friendly.
What can I serve with candied sweet potatoes?
These sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a truly delightful addition to your fall menu. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or enjoying them as a sweet treat, their rich flavors are sure to please. Give this recipe a try and share your thoughts and variations with us in the comments below!