Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
A heartwarming side dish consisting of tender sweet potatoes cooked in a luscious brown sugar glaze, offering rich caramelized flavors perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into rounds Fresh firm sweet potatoes work best.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed Can be replaced with maple syrup or honey for a healthier alternative.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted Can substitute with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Almond extract can be used as a substitution.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional) Add for additional flavor.
- a pinch salt
- Chopped pecans (for topping, optional) Add for texture and visual appeal.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large baking dish, arrange the sweet potato slices into an even layer.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, water, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt until smooth.
- Pour the syrup over the sweet potatoes, ensuring each slice is well coated.
Cooking
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes, basting every 10 minutes with the syrup.
- Optionally, sprinkle chopped pecans on top just before serving.
Serving
- Serve warm and enjoy the smiles and nostalgia that come with each bite.
Notes
For best results, use fresh firm sweet potatoes and continuously baste during baking to ensure flavor absorption.