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Classic Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes with Brown Sugar Glaze

Close-up of thick-cut candied sweet potatoes glistening with a dark, rich glaze in a white bowl.

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Make this classic Southern candied sweet potatoes recipe featuring tender slices coated in a rich, buttery brown sugar glaze with warm spices. This easy side dish is perfect for holiday tables.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer. Cook for 2 minutes without stirring after it begins to boil.
  5. Remove the glaze from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, if using.
  6. Carefully pour the hot glaze evenly over the sweet potato slices in the baking dish.
  7. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, basting the potatoes with the glaze every 15 minutes. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the sauce should be thick and caramelized.
  8. Remove from the oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon extra glaze over the top.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute 1/4 cup of the water with 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup.
  • If you prefer a softer texture, cover the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking, then uncover to allow the glaze to thicken.
  • This dish pairs well with Thanksgiving side dishes and comfort food side dishes.

Nutrition