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Candied Sweet Potatoes

Candied Sweet Potatoes
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Candied Sweet Potatoes combine sweet, buttery flavors with warm spices to create a tender, luscious side dish perfect for holiday gatherings. This easy recipe features sweet potatoes glazed in a rich caramelized syrup, delivering a comforting and festive treat that’s simple to prepare and loved by all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 pounds medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/2 inch thick
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup orange juice (optional, for added citrus brightness)

Optional Variations & Garnishes

  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for nutty crunch)
  • Pure maple syrup (can replace brown sugar, equal amount)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger (for spicy kick)
  • Vegan butter or coconut oil (to replace butter)
  • Dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder (for smoky flavor)
  • Fresh parsley or thyme (for garnish)
  • Orange slices (for presentation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them uniformly about half an inch thick to ensure even cooking and tender texture.
  2. Create the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, vanilla extract, salt, and orange juice if using. Stir until smooth and glossy to form a flavorful glaze.
  3. Assemble and Coat: Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer on a greased baking dish. Pour the prepared glaze evenly over the potatoes, making sure each slice is well coated.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the potatoes for about 45 minutes, spooning the glaze over them every 15 minutes to create layers of sticky caramelization. Potatoes should become tender and golden at the edges.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes to thicken the glaze and let flavors meld. Serve warm, optionally garnished with toasted nuts or fresh herbs.

Notes

  • Cut sweet potatoes into uniform slices for consistent cooking and texture.
  • Spoon glaze frequently during baking to enhance caramelization and flavor.
  • Use freshly ground cinnamon for a brighter, more aromatic spice note.
  • Avoid overbaking to keep potatoes tender yet intact.
  • Best served warm to enjoy the full flavor and texture.
  • For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
  • Leftover candied sweet potatoes keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of water or orange juice to retain moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: candied sweet potatoes, holiday side dish, sweet potato recipe, glazed sweet potatoes, festive sides, easy holiday recipe, vegan options

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/candied-sweet-potatoes/