Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a heartwarming dish that fills the kitchen with the sweet aroma of caramelizing brown sugar and warm spices. This classic recipe hails from the South, often finding its way to festive gatherings, holiday tables, and comforting family dinners. Imagine tender slices of sweet potatoes, beautifully glazed in a syrupy mix of butter, brown sugar, and orange juice, all harmonizing to create an irresistible side dish that pairs perfectly with everything from roasted meats to a simple weeknight meal.
Why you’ll love this dish
These Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re also a delight for the soul. With their vibrant color and rich flavor, they are a visually stunning addition to any meal. Plus, this recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it achievable even for novice cooks. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, with a hint of warmth from cinnamon and nutmeg, creates a dish that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a touch of comfort food.
"This recipe is a total game changer! The sweet potatoes are perfectly tender and the sauce is divine. We can’t stop going back for seconds!" – A happy home cook
How this recipe comes together
Making Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes is a simple process that involves just a few key steps. You’ll start by prepping your sweet potatoes and then create a luscious syrup that will give your dish its rich flavor. The magic happens as everything bakes together, allowing the sweet potatoes to absorb all those delicious flavors.
- Slice the sweet potatoes.
- Melt butter and mix it with sugar and spices.
- Bake and baste until caramelized.
Before we jump into the ingredients, let’s gather what you need for this delightful dish!
Key ingredients
To prepare these delicious Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes, gather the following items:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
You can easily substitute honey with maple syrup, and orange juice can be swapped for apple juice if preferred.
