The Best Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

The Best Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe: Pure Comfort

Southern kitchens have a magical way of turning simple sweet potatoes into candied magic that dances on your plate.

Generations of cooks have perfected this delightful side dish with love and tradition.

Butter, brown sugar, and warm spices create a symphony of flavors that comfort and delight.

Memories of holiday gatherings flood back with each caramelized bite of these tender sweet potatoes.

Rich and gooey, this recipe captures the heart of southern cooking in one delectable serving.

Prepare to fall in love with a dish that brings pure joy to your table.

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes To Savor

  • Savor Sweet Comfort: Dive into a classic Southern dish that wraps you in warm, nostalgic flavors with minimal cooking skills required.
  • Quick Kitchen Magic: Whip up this delightful side dish in just a few simple steps, using basic ingredients you likely have in your pantry.
  • Family-Friendly Feast: A universally loved recipe that appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Equally stunning as a side dish or dessert, this recipe adapts seamlessly to different meal settings and culinary preferences.

Ingredients For Candied Sweet Potatoes Southern Style

Sweet Potato Base:
  • Sweet Potatoes: Classic Southern root vegetable that creates the foundation of this delicious candied dish.
Sugar Mixture:
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweet ingredients that help create a rich, caramelized coating for the sweet potatoes.
  • Water: Liquid component that helps dissolve sugars and create a smooth sauce.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, glossy sauce that coats the sweet potatoes.
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg: Warm spices that provide depth and traditional Southern comfort flavor to the dish.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle, complex sweetness that rounds out the final taste of the candied sweet potatoes.

Step-By-Step Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Magical Caramel Base

In a spacious skillet, combine these luxurious ingredients:
  • Butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Water
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Salt

Stir the ingredients until they transform into a smooth, glossy mixture with sugars completely dissolved.

Step 2: Embrace the Sweet Potato Symphony

Gently place sliced sweet potatoes into the caramel sauce, ensuring each slice gets a loving coat of the sweet mixture.

Step 3: Slow Dance of Flavors

Cover the skillet and let the sweet potatoes simmer on medium-low heat.

Stir occasionally, allowing the potatoes to become tender and the sauce to thicken into a rich, golden glaze.

This magical process takes about 20-25 minutes.

Step 4: Elevate with Vanilla Essence

Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle vanilla extract over the candied sweet potatoes.

Softly stir to distribute the aromatic vanilla throughout the dish.

Step 5: Serve and Celebrate

Transfer the glistening sweet potatoes to a serving dish.

The potatoes should be beautifully caramelized, with a luxurious sauce clinging to each slice.

Serve warm and watch everyone’s eyes light up with pure Southern comfort food joy.

Pro Tips For Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

  • Cut sweet potatoes into uniform, 1/2-inch thick pieces to ensure consistent cooking and caramelization.
  • Maintain medium-low temperature to prevent burning sugar and create perfect, glossy caramel coating.
  • Experiment with adding a splash of bourbon or orange zest for extra complexity in the sweet potato glaze.
  • Prepare the dish in advance and reheat gently before serving to maintain the sweet potatoes' delicate texture.
  • Substitute butter with coconut oil for a vegan version, keeping the rich, sweet flavor profile intact.

Variations To Spice Up Candied Sweet Potatoes

  • Vegan Sweet Potato Delight: Replace butter with coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a plant-based version.
  • Diabetic-Friendly Option: Substitute sugars with stevia or monk fruit sweetener to reduce overall sugar content while maintaining flavor.
  • Spiced Autumn Variation: Add ground ginger and cardamom to enhance the warm, seasonal profile of the candied sweet potatoes.
  • Nutty Crunch Upgrade: Sprinkle toasted pecans or chopped walnuts on top before serving for added texture and rich, complementary flavor.

Serving Suggestions For Candied Sweet Potatoes

  • Southern Comfort Plating: Nestle these candied sweet potatoes alongside roasted turkey or glazed ham for a classic holiday feast centerpiece.
  • Dessert-Style Serve: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to transform this side dish into a decadent sweet treat that melts in your mouth.
  • Breakfast Twist: Spoon the warm candied sweet potatoes over crispy waffles or pancakes for a indulgent morning breakfast that feels like a special weekend surprise.
  • Leftover Magic: Chop the cooled sweet potatoes and fold into morning oatmeal or blend into a smoothie for an extra nutritious and sweet breakfast boost.

Storage Tips For Candied Sweet Potatoes

  • Store leftover candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and odors from affecting the flavor.
  • Transfer cooled potatoes to a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. Remove excess air and freeze for 2-3 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
  • Place portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm throughout.
  • Spread potatoes in a baking dish. Add a splash of water to prevent drying. Cover with foil and warm at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

  • Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes. Drain them well and pat dry before adding to the sugar mixture. Fresh sweet potatoes are recommended for the best texture and flavor.

  • How do I prevent the sweet potatoes from becoming mushy?

Slice sweet potatoes evenly and avoid overcooking. Stir occasionally and maintain medium-low heat to ensure they remain tender but not falling apart.

  • Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare candied sweet potatoes in advance and reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving. The flavors may even enhance after resting.

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The Best Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

The Best Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

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4.9 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x
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Description

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes deliver a mouthwatering blend of caramelized sugars and creamy potato goodness. Rich buttery flavors meld with warm spices, creating a classic side dish that promises comfort and deliciousness for family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Sweet Potatoes:

  • 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced

Sugars:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

Butter and Liquid:

  • 1/2 cup (4 ounces / 113 grams) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup water

Spices and Flavor:

  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Heat a spacious skillet to medium temperature, creating an ideal environment for caramelizing sweet potatoes.
  2. Craft a luxurious sauce by melting butter and blending granulated sugar, brown sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until seamlessly integrated and glossy.
  3. Gently nestle sweet potato slices into the aromatic syrup, ensuring each piece becomes thoroughly coated with the fragrant mixture.
  4. Lower heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and allow potatoes to simmer for 20-25 minutes, periodically rotating them to promote even caramelization and prevent scorching.
  5. Monitor the transformation as the sauce thickens and the sweet potatoes soften, developing a rich, golden-brown exterior.
  6. Once potatoes reach perfect tenderness, remove from heat and introduce vanilla extract, carefully folding to distribute the delicate flavor throughout the dish.
  7. Let the candied sweet potatoes rest momentarily, allowing the sauce to slightly cool and further thicken before serving.
  8. Present warm, showcasing the glistening, caramelized sweet potatoes that promise a decadent Southern-style dessert experience.

Notes

  • Slice sweet potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent caramelization throughout the dish.
  • Use fresh, firm sweet potatoes with deep orange color for maximum natural sweetness and best texture.
  • Adjust sugar levels based on potato’s natural sweetness; taste and modify sugar quantity during cooking process.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half the butter with coconut oil and use alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Snacks, Appetizer
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 263 kcal
  • Sugar: 32 g
  • Sodium: 105 mg
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 56 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg

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Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.

Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

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