Sweet & Spiced Candied Sweet Potatoes | YumAndJoy

Sweet & Spiced Candied Sweet Potatoes

These sweet and spiced candied sweet potatoes are a deliciously indulgent side dish, perfect for holidays or cozy family dinners. Featuring warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, fresh orange juice, and rich butter, this dish offers the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for Holidays: A classic side dish that shines on Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner tables.
  • Warm and Cozy Flavors: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange juice create a delightful aroma and taste.
  • Simple Ingredients: Requires pantry staples for a stress-free recipe.
  • Versatile: Pairs beautifully with roasted meats, glazed ham, or even a vegetarian spread.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Easy to prepare in advance for special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 3 lbs sweet potatoes (peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds)
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
  • 2 tsp orange zest (optional)
  • 4 oz butter (salted, cut into cubes)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds and arrange them in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Make the Sweet and Spiced Sauce:
    • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the light and dark brown sugars, cinnamon, salt, orange juice, and orange zest (if using). Stir until the sugars dissolve and the mixture is smooth and bubbling. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
    • Pour the spiced sauce evenly over the sweet potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated. Toss gently to distribute the sauce.
  4. Bake:
    • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
    • Remove the foil, stir the potatoes gently, and bake uncovered for an additional 25–30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
  5. Serve:
    • Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Spoon some of the caramel sauce over the sweet potatoes for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

  • Nutty Topping: Add chopped pecans or walnuts during the final 10 minutes of baking for a crunchy texture.
  • Marshmallow Topping: Add mini marshmallows on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a classic candied sweet potato twist.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger for a subtle heat.
  • Maple Flavor: Replace half of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a deeper flavor.
  • Citrus Twist: Add more orange zest or a splash of lemon juice for a brighter flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
  • Freezing: Freeze the cooked sweet potatoes in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, yams work just as well in this recipe. They have a slightly firmer texture but pair beautifully with the sweet and spiced sauce.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it overnight. Bake just before serving.

3. What’s the difference between light and dark brown sugar?

Dark brown sugar has more molasses, giving it a deeper, richer flavor. Using both adds complexity to the sauce.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter.

5. Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce the amount of sugar slightly, but the sauce may not caramelize as well. Adjust to your taste.

6. What other spices can I use?

Try adding nutmeg, cloves, or allspice for extra warmth and depth of flavor.

7. Do I have to peel the sweet potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skin on for added fiber.

8. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Fresh sweet potatoes are best for this recipe, as canned ones may become too soft during baking.

9. How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?

The sweet potatoes are ready when they’re fork-tender and the sauce is thickened and bubbly.

10. Can I use a different baking dish size?

Yes, but ensure the sweet potatoes are evenly layered to cook properly. Adjust baking time if necessary.

Conclusion

Sweet and spiced candied sweet potatoes are a must-have side dish for any special occasion or comforting dinner. With their tender texture, caramelized sauce, and warm spices, they’re a guaranteed hit at the table. Whether for a holiday feast or a weeknight meal, this versatile dish will become a go-to favorite. Try it today and savor the perfect balance of sweetness and spice!

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Sweet & Spiced Candied Sweet Potatoes

Sweet & Spiced Candied Sweet Potatoes


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  • Author: asma
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These sweet and spiced candied sweet potatoes are the ultimate holiday side dish. With warm spices, fresh orange juice, and buttery caramelized goodness, they’re perfect for festive gatherings or cozy dinners at home.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Produce:

  • 3 lbs sweet potatoes (peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds)

Baking & Spices:

  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Drinks:

  • 2 tbsp fresh orange juice

Dairy:

  • 4 oz butter (salted, cut into cubes)

Optional:

  • 2 tsp orange zest (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange the sliced sweet potatoes in a 9×13-inch baking dish, slightly overlapping the slices.

2. Make the Spiced Sauce:

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Stir in the light and dark brown sugars, cinnamon, salt, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Cook, stirring, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth (about 2-3 minutes).

3. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:

  1. Pour the spiced sauce evenly over the sweet potatoes, ensuring all slices are well coated. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.

4. Bake:

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  2. Remove the foil and baste the sweet potatoes with the sauce in the dish. Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes to let the sauce thicken and caramelize slightly.

5. Garnish and Serve:

  1. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with optional orange zest for added flavor and brightness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Texture Tip: For a thicker sauce, simmer the sauce an extra 1-2 minutes on the stove before pouring over the sweet potatoes.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Bake just before serving.
  • Add Toppings: For added crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
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