Candied Sweet Potatoes - knedir Recipes

The combination of nutty sweet potatoes and a glossy, buttery glaze creates a sweet and savory side dish that can elevate any meal. This Candied Sweet Potatoes recipe is simple to make and perfect for holiday tables or any dinner where you want to bring comfort and indulgence to the table. Each tender slice is coated with a rich and sweet glaze that turns golden and caramelized as it bakes, making it an irresistible addition to your next meal.

Whether you’re preparing it for a Thanksgiving feast or just a comforting family dinner, this dish will surely become a favorite. The ease of preparation and the deep, comforting flavors of these sweet potatoes make them a must-try recipe for any occasion.

Full Recipe:

3 pounds sweet potatoes, scrubbed
½ cup salted butter (1 stick)
1 cup powdered sugar
Pinch of kosher salt or flaked sea salt

Directions:

Boil sweet potatoes whole for 30–45 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool.
Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C) and spray a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick spray.
Peel the sweet potatoes and slice into ½-inch thick rounds. Layer slices in the baking dish, slightly overlapping.
Melt butter in a small saucepan. Add powdered sugar and salt, whisking until smooth and fully incorporated.
Pour the buttery glaze evenly over the sliced potatoes.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until glazed and shiny.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 654 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Recipe Overview

These Candied Sweet Potatoes are the epitome of cozy comfort with a holiday twist. Each thick slice is drenched in a luscious glaze of melted butter and powdered sugar, creating a tender, caramelized bite that practically melts in your mouth.

Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving or simply craving a sweet and savory side, this simple 3-ingredient dish is guaranteed to steal the show. The ease of prep, warm flavors, and classic appeal make it a timeless favorite for family gatherings and holiday tables alike.

History and Origin

The history of Candied Sweet Potatoes is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of the American South, where sweet potatoes have been a staple for centuries. Originally native to Central and South America, sweet potatoes were introduced to the United States by early explorers and became widely cultivated in the southern regions due to the warm climate. As a result, many southern dishes, including Candied Sweet Potatoes, have been passed down through generations, making them a beloved part of Southern comfort food.

Candied Sweet Potatoes, as we know them today, are often associated with holiday meals, particularly Thanksgiving. The dish has evolved over time, with different families and regions adding their own twists, but the core concept has remained largely unchanged. The sweet potatoes are often boiled or baked until tender, then coated in a sugary, buttery glaze that turns golden and glossy as it bakes. This dish is sometimes referred to as “candied yams,” though the term “yam” in the United States is often used interchangeably with sweet potatoes, even though they are two different root vegetables.

The recipe’s popularity surged in the mid-20th century, especially as cooking techniques became more accessible and time-saving kitchen gadgets like ovens and slow cookers entered the home kitchen. Today, Candied Sweet Potatoes are a staple not just in Southern cooking but also in American kitchens nationwide, adored for their sweetness and rich flavors.

Variations and Adaptations

While the traditional Candied Sweet Potatoes recipe calls for just sweet potatoes, butter, and powdered sugar, many variations of this dish have emerged over time. In some regions, the glaze is enhanced with additional ingredients such as brown sugar, maple syrup, or vanilla extract to create deeper, more complex flavors. Some cooks also add a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of ginger to the glaze for a spiced kick that balances the sweetness of the potatoes.

Other variations incorporate toppings like chopped pecans, marshmallows, or even a drizzle of bourbon for a more decadent treat. These variations often depend on personal taste or regional preferences. For example, in parts of the South, Candied Sweet Potatoes might be topped with toasted pecans or served alongside other classic dishes like collard greens and cornbread dressing.

The dish is also versatile in terms of preparation methods. While the traditional oven-baked version is the most common, some cooks prefer to prepare Candied Sweet Potatoes in a slow cooker for convenience. This method allows the sweet potatoes to cook slowly in the glaze, resulting in an even more tender texture and a rich, concentrated flavor. You can also find variations in how the potatoes are cut—some recipes call for whole roasted sweet potatoes, while others opt for sliced or diced potatoes for a quicker cooking time.

Nutritional Information

Candied Sweet Potatoes are undeniably delicious, but they are also a rich source of nutrients. Sweet potatoes themselves are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them an excellent choice for a balanced diet. The key nutrients found in sweet potatoes include:

Vitamin A: Sweet potatoes are one of the best sources of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. This essential nutrient supports eye health, boosts the immune system, and promotes healthy skin.
Vitamin C: Sweet potatoes also provide a good dose of vitamin C, which supports immune function and promotes collagen production for healthy skin and tissue repair.
Potassium: A serving of sweet potatoes can help meet your daily potassium needs, which is important for regulating blood pressure and supporting proper muscle and nerve function.
Fiber: Sweet potatoes are high in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, regulates blood sugar levels, and promotes feelings of fullness.

However, it’s important to note that the addition of butter and sugar significantly increases the calorie and fat content of Candied Sweet Potatoes. While this dish is rich in flavor, it is best enjoyed in moderation, especially for those watching their calorie intake or managing their sugar consumption.

A typical serving of Candied Sweet Potatoes contains approximately:

Calories: 654 kcal
Carbohydrates: 80g
Fat: 31g
Protein: 14g
Fiber: 10g
Sugar: 26g

While Candied Sweet Potatoes are a delicious indulgence, it’s worth considering lighter versions of the recipe by reducing the sugar or swapping out the butter for a healthier fat like coconut oil or ghee.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Candied Sweet Potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a wide range of savory meals. Here are a few creative ideas for serving them:

Holiday Dinners: Pair Candied Sweet Potatoes with traditional holiday fare like roasted turkey, honey-baked ham, or a succulent roast chicken. The sweet glaze of the potatoes complements the savory flavors of these meats, making them a perfect accompaniment to holiday feasts.
Barbecue and Grilled Dishes: The sweet, caramelized flavor of Candied Sweet Potatoes also pairs wonderfully with barbecue dishes like grilled ribs, pulled pork, or smoked chicken. The balance of sweetness and smokiness makes this an ideal side for a summer cookout or casual family dinner.
Vegetarian Meals: If you’re serving a vegetarian or vegan meal, Candied Sweet Potatoes can be paired with a hearty grain-based dish like quinoa or a savory vegetable stew. The sweetness of the potatoes adds contrast to the richness of the grains or legumes.

For beverages, try pairing Candied Sweet Potatoes with a glass of white wine, such as a light and fruity Sauvignon Blanc, or a robust red wine like Zinfandel. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a glass of iced tea or a homemade ginger ale can add a refreshing touch to balance the sweetness of the dish.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure that your Candied Sweet Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips:

Boil the Sweet Potatoes First: Boiling the sweet potatoes before baking them helps to ensure that they cook evenly and soften properly. It also reduces the baking time and prevents the potatoes from becoming too dry.
Use Powdered Sugar for a Smooth Glaze: Powdered sugar dissolves easily in the butter, ensuring a smooth and lump-free glaze. Avoid using granulated sugar, as it can result in a grainy texture.
Customize the Glaze: Feel free to experiment with different flavors in the glaze. Add a dash of vanilla extract for a warm, aromatic flavor, or a tablespoon of maple syrup for a richer sweetness. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can add a festive touch, while a sprinkle of chopped pecans or marshmallows makes for a decadent finish.
Watch the Baking Time: Candied Sweet Potatoes can burn easily due to the sugar content, so keep an eye on them while they’re baking. If the potatoes begin to brown too quickly, cover the dish with aluminum foil and continue baking until tender.

Potential Health Benefits

While Candied Sweet Potatoes are a rich and indulgent treat, the main ingredient—sweet potatoes—offers several potential health benefits. Here are a few reasons why incorporating sweet potatoes into your diet can be beneficial:

Rich in Antioxidants: The bright orange color of sweet potatoes indicates their high antioxidant content, particularly beta-carotene, which may help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Supports Digestive Health: The fiber in sweet potatoes aids in digestion, supports a healthy gut microbiome, and promotes regular bowel movements.
Regulates Blood Sugar: Despite being a starchy vegetable, sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index, meaning they don’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This makes them a good choice for those managing blood sugar or insulin resistance.
Boosts Immune Health: With their high content of vitamin C and beta-carotene, sweet potatoes contribute to a stronger immune system, helping the body fend off illness and infection.

Conclusion

Candied Sweet Potatoes are a timeless dish that adds warmth, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia to any table. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday feast, a family dinner, or a simple weeknight meal, these sweet and buttery potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The rich history, simple ingredients, and versatile nature of this dish make it a beloved classic, and with a few easy variations, it can be tailored to suit any taste.

Try making Candied Sweet Potatoes for your next meal, and savor the blend of sweetness, comfort, and tradition in every bite.