Crockpot Candied Sweet Potatoes

Step-by-step instructions

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Begin by peeling the sweet potatoes and slicing them into even, thick rounds—about ½-inch thick will do the trick. This thickness is essential for achieving that tender, custardy texture.
Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup (or honey), cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Layer in the Crockpot: Lightly grease your slow cooker, then add the sliced sweet potatoes in layers, pouring sauce over each layer. This method helps to infuse each bite with flavor.
Slow Cook: Cover your Crockpot and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or on HIGH for 2½–3 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
Optional Finishing Touch: If you want to add a sweet crunch, toss in mini marshmallows or chopped pecans during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This adds an incredible texture to the dish.
Serve & Savor: Gently stir the sweet potatoes before serving, and enjoy them warm.

Best ways to enjoy it

These Crockpot Candied Sweet Potatoes can steal the show at any meal. They’re a perfect side dish for holiday dinners—think Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas ham—but they also shine as a sweet treat at a casual family gathering. You can serve them alongside roasted meats for a delightful sweet-savory contrast, or let them be the star of a vegetarian feast.

For a festive presentation, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or even a sprinkle of sea salt to balance out the sweetness.

How to store

Leftovers? No problem! Allow the candied sweet potatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a microwave or stovetop with a splash of water to prevent them from drying out. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; just make sure to reheat them gently to maintain their softness.

Helpful cooking tips

To make sure your Crockpot Candied Sweet Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, here are a few tips:

Choose sweeters, firm sweet potatoes for the best texture.
Don’t skip the soaking time in the sauce; it’s crucial for flavor development.
Experiment with spices—consider adding a bit of ginger or cloves for a warm twist.

Creative twists

If you want to switch things up, try these variations on the classic recipe:

Coconut Bliss: Substitute half of the butter with coconut oil and add shredded coconut to the top for a tropical flair.
Savory-sweet combo: Mix in diced apples or pears for extra flavor and texture.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare the sweet potatoes?

The prep time for this recipe is about 15–20 minutes. After that, the slow cooker does the heavy lifting!

Can I use other sweeteners instead of brown sugar?

Absolutely! You can use coconut sugar, or even granulated sugar in a pinch. Just remember that the flavor will change slightly.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?

This recipe can be made dairy-free by using a plant-based butter alternative and can also be adapted for vegans by switching out honey for maple syrup.