Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes: A Sweet, Nostalgic Classic!

There’s something about Southern candied sweet potatoes that feels like a warm embrace from the past. Whether they remind you of festive family dinners or the scent of buttery sweetness from a childhood kitchen, this recipe is a classic you’ll want to keep forever. With their rich, syrupy glaze, tender texture, and perfect balance of spices, these sweet potatoes are anything but ordinary!

Ready to relive those comforting memories or make new ones? Let’s dive into this amazing recipe!

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southern candied sweet potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re a celebration of tradition and flavor. Here’s why I know you’ll love them:

• Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these pantry staples on hand.
• Incredible Taste: The buttery, caramelized syrup with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg transforms the humble sweet potato into a decadent, almost dessert-like treat.
• Versatility: They can be a star on any holiday table or an everyday side dish that feels like a special treat.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping in advance, saving you time during busy meal preparations!

And the smell when this is in the oven? Pure heaven!

What Do Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Taste Like?

Imagine soft, tender sweet potatoes infused with a luscious caramelized sauce that’s both buttery and sweet. The brown sugar and spices give a cozy, warming flavor, while the optional mini marshmallows add a delightful toasted finish. It’s a mouthwatering balance of sweet, spiced, and slightly savory.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to whip up these Southern candied sweet potatoes:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1 cup brown sugar – this is where the rich, molasses-like sweetness comes from.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter – adds that luxurious, creamy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – a must for that warm, spiced depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – adds a hint of nuttiness and warmth.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup water – helps dissolve the sugar and create the perfect syrupy consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – a touch of vanilla makes the syrup even more aromatic.
• Optional: mini marshmallows – if you like your sweet potatoes extra indulgent with a gooey, golden topping!

Tools You’ll Need

To prepare this recipe, you’ll need:

• A sharp knife and cutting board to slice the sweet potatoes.
• A large saucepan for making the syrup.
• A greased baking dish (9×13 works well).
• Aluminum foil to cover the dish during baking.
• Optional: oven mitts for handling the hot dish!

How to Make Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes: Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, peel and slice your sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch rounds. Pro tip: Try to slice them evenly so they cook at the same rate.

2. Make the Syrup

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once it’s melted, stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved and you have a smooth, glossy syrup.

3. Combine Sweet Potatoes and Syrup

Place the sliced sweet potatoes in a greased baking dish, arranging them in an even layer. Pour the syrup mixture over the sweet potatoes, making sure each slice is coated.

4. Bake the Sweet Potatoes

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in your preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the syrup is bubbling.

5. Add Vanilla and Optional Marshmallow Topping

Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and stir in the vanilla extract to add that final burst of flavor. If you’re a fan of marshmallows, sprinkle them on top and return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, just until the marshmallows are beautifully golden and toasted.

What to Serve with Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals. Serve it alongside:

• Roast turkey or ham during the holidays.
• Fried chicken or pork chops for a comforting weeknight dinner.
• Sautéed greens like collard greens or spinach to balance the sweetness.
• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.

Tips for the Perfect Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

1. Keep an eye on the syrup: Stir often when cooking the syrup to avoid burning or over-caramelizing.
2. Make them ahead: You can prepare these sweet potatoes the night before. Simply reheat them in the oven before serving.
3. Customize the spices: Feel free to add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for an extra flavor twist!

Storage and Reheating

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (and you might not!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

While fresh sweet potatoes are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them thoroughly and reduce the initial baking time by about 10-15 minutes.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based butter alternative, and omit the marshmallows or use vegan marshmallows if desired.

How can I add more flavor?

For a citrusy twist, add a bit of orange zest to the syrup mixture before pouring it over the sweet potatoes. You can also sprinkle chopped pecans on top for some crunch.

Final Thoughts on Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Southern candied sweet potatoes are a comforting and indulgent side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds! They’re perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something sweet and satisfying. Plus, they’re easy to make and customizable to your taste. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household!

Looking for more sweet potato goodness? Try out these other delicious recipes:

• Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Honey and Cinnamon
• Sweet Potato Pie – A Southern Classic!

Don’t forget to share your creations with me on Pinterest or leave a review below – I’d love to hear how they turned out for you!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 290
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Sugar: 34g

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