If you’re seeking a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and Southern charm to your table, look no further than these delightful Southern candied sweet potatoes. This recipe transforms humble sweet potatoes into a decadent, buttery, and spiced side dish that’s perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or just a cozy weeknight treat. The combination of tender sweet potatoes, sweet caramelized sauce, and fragrant spices creates a dish that’s hard to resist and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re serving them alongside a roasted turkey at Thanksgiving or simply enjoying them on a chilly evening, these candied sweet potatoes will evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia with every bite. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe that will undoubtedly become a favorite in your home.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 6 large sweet potatoes: Choose firm, evenly shaped sweet potatoes for the best results. They should be peeled and cut into even pieces to ensure consistent cooking.
• ½ cup butter: This adds richness and helps create the delicious candied coating.
• 2 cups white sugar: Provides the sweetness needed to create the caramelized sauce.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a classic touch of spice.
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon and enhances the overall flavor.
• Salt to taste: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and a hint of vanilla aroma.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Peel and Cut:
   • Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into approximately 1-inch chunks. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the sweet, spiced syrup well.
2. Boil:
   • Place the sweet potato chunks in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the sweet potatoes are just tender, about 10-15 minutes. They should be firm but easy to pierce with a fork.
3. Drain:
   • Drain the sweet potatoes and set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Candied Sauce

1. Melt the Butter:
   • In a large skillet or saucepan, melt ½ cup of butter over medium heat.
2. Add Sugar and Spices:
   • Stir in 2 cups of white sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture starts to bubble.
3. Add Vanilla:
   • Remove the pan from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. This adds a delicious, aromatic flavor to the sauce.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine Sweet Potatoes and Sauce:
   • Place the drained sweet potato chunks in a baking dish. Pour the prepared candied sauce over the sweet potatoes, making sure they are evenly coated.
3. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the sauce is thick and caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure the sweet potatoes are well coated with the syrup.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Cool Slightly:
   • Allow the sweet potatoes to cool slightly before serving. This helps the sauce to thicken a bit more and allows the flavors to meld.
2. Serve:
   • Serve the candied sweet potatoes warm, either as a side dish or a comforting dessert. They pair wonderfully with roast meats, poultry, or even as a standalone treat.

Tips and Variations:

• Add Nuts: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the sweet potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference. You can also use brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with other spices like cloves or allspice for a different flavor profile.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sweet potatoes and sauce in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Simply reheat and bake before serving.