Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

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Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are the kind of soul-warming side dish that instantly brings comfort to the table. With slices of sweet potatoes simmered slowly in a buttery brown sugar glaze, this Southern classic is tender, caramelized, and deeply flavorful. It’s a staple during holiday gatherings, but honestly, it’s just as delightful on a regular weeknight.

This dish is a beautiful blend of old-fashioned simplicity and indulgence. Each slice soaks up the syrupy goodness, turning golden and glossy, making every bite melt in your mouth. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted meats or adding it to a holiday spread, Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are sure to be the highlight.

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Why You’ll Love This Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

If you’re a fan of cozy, nostalgic comfort food, this one hits all the right notes. It has that slow-cooked richness without needing hours of labor, and it transforms humble sweet potatoes into something truly special. You’ll love how they caramelize perfectly in a stovetop skillet, turning fork-tender while keeping their shape. The combination of warm cinnamon, butter, and brown sugar is pure magic.

It’s budget-friendly, makes your kitchen smell amazing, and works for both fancy dinners and casual meals. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day!

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start, make sure you have the right tools to help bring out the best results:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: Crucial for even cooking and caramelizing the sugars without burning. It distributes heat evenly and holds steady low heat.
• Vegetable Peeler: For effortlessly peeling the sweet potatoes smooth and clean.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for uniform slicing. Thicker slices won’t cook through, while thinner ones might fall apart.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key for the sugar and spice balance.
• Silicone or Wooden Spatula: Helps gently stir the potatoes as they soften without breaking them.

Having these tools ready ensures your candied sweet potatoes come out perfectly tender and coated in that luscious glaze.

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Ingredients for the Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

• Sweet Potatoes: The heart of this dish. Choose firm, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for best flavor and texture.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and creates the base for the glaze.
• Brown Sugar: The main sweetener that caramelizes into a deep, syrupy coating.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances the brown sugar for a smoother sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon: Brings a cozy warmth that defines Southern flavor.
• Nutmeg (optional): Adds a touch of nutty spice that deepens the flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall aroma and gives a bakery-like finish.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness.

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How To Make the Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Slice the Sweet Potatoes

Peel your sweet potatoes and slice them into uniform rounds about 1/2 inch thick. Uniformity ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Start the Glaze

In a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt. Let it bubble gently for a minute to combine.

Step 3: Add the Sweet Potatoes

Arrange the sweet potato slices evenly in the skillet, making sure they are all coated with the glaze. Use a spatula to spoon some of the syrup over the top layer.

Step 4: Simmer and Flip

Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let them simmer for about 30-40 minutes, flipping occasionally to evenly glaze both sides. The sweet potatoes should be fork-tender and deeply caramelized.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, spooning extra glaze over the top. They’re irresistible fresh out of the pan.

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How to Serve and Store Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

These candied sweet potatoes pair beautifully with holiday roasts, baked ham, or even simple grilled chicken. Their sweet richness also complements savory sides like green beans or stuffing.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to restore their glaze and texture. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months, though fresh is always best.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, they reheat beautifully! Just prepare them a day in advance and warm them gently before serving.

Can I bake them instead of using a skillet?

Absolutely. Arrange the ingredients in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about an hour.

Can I add marshmallows?

While it’s not traditional for stovetop candied yams, a sprinkle of marshmallows added at the end and broiled can create a fun variation.

What’s the best type of sweet potato to use?

Go for orange-fleshed varieties like Jewel or Garnet—they’re naturally sweeter and hold up well to simmering.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can cut back slightly, but the syrupy glaze depends on enough sugar to caramelize. Try using less granulated sugar if you need to lighten it.

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Want More Southern Side Dish Ideas?

If these Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes made your taste buds sing, here are a few other comforting side dishes to try next:

• Roasted Parmesan Green Beans for a crisp, savory balance.
• Simple Cheesy Potatoes when you want rich and gooey.
• Oven Fried Potatoes & Onions for crispy skillet goodness.
• Sweet Buttery Honey Sweet Potato Cornbread to double up on the sweet potato love.
• Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe if you’re craving pure classic comfort.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with extra cinnamon? Add a marshmallow twist? I love seeing your delicious spins on the classics.

Questions or feedback? Share your tips and tricks—let’s make comfort food better together!

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