Apricot-Glazed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are coated with a luscious apricot glaze, combining the natural sweetness of the potatoes with the fruity, tangy flavor of apricot nectar. This dish is perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or a comforting side that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place sweet potatoes in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon; stir in apricot nectar, water, and grated orange peel.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Cook and stir for 2 minutes more.
- Remove from heat, then stir in butter.
- Pour the glaze over the sweet potatoes.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using maple syrup instead of brown sugar, or add a splash of vanilla extract to the glaze. If you prefer a thicker glaze, increase the cornstarch to 6 teaspoons. To save time, you can use canned sweet potatoes; just rinse and drain them before baking. Ensure to stir the glaze constantly to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
Serving Suggestions
These apricot-glazed sweet potatoes are a perfect side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, especially ham or turkey. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside Aunt Jan'S Baking Powder Biscuits and a fresh green salad. The sweet and tangy flavors are also fantastic with Vegetarian recipes that feature nuts or grains.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover apricot-glazed sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for quick reheating, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot-Glazed Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 965 calories, with 4g protein, 191g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value) and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 598mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh apricots instead of apricot nectar?
While fresh apricots can add a delightful flavor, they may not provide enough liquid for the glaze. If you prefer to use fresh apricots, puree them with a bit of water to reach about 1 cup of liquid, adjusting the sugar accordingly for sweetness.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter. Additionally, ensure that the apricot nectar is free of animal-derived ingredients for a fully vegan recipe.
How can I make the sweet potatoes ahead of time?
You can prepare the sweet potatoes in advance by cooking and peeling them, then storing them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply follow the remaining steps to prepare the glaze and bake them, ensuring they are heated through before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).