Candied Sweet Potatoes & Apples
Sweet potatoes and apples come together in this warm, comforting dish, with rich caramelized flavors from brown sugar and butter. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it offers a delightful blend of sweetness and spice that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut sweet potatoes in half crosswise.
- Cook in boiling water to cover, for 10 minutes.
- Drain and cool.
- Cut crosswise into 1/2 inch slices.
- In a saucepan, combine packed light brown sugar, butter, apple cider, salt, and vanilla extract.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Add the sliced sweet potatoes and apple rings to the saucepan.
- Cook until the sweet potatoes and apples are tender and coated with the caramel sauce, about 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, try using a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. If you want a healthier alternative, consider substituting half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. Also, be cautious not to overcook the sweet potatoes and apples, as they can become mushy and lose their texture. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes like Broccoli 'N Rice Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve candied sweet potatoes and apples warm as a delightful side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. They pair wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey or ham. For a comforting dessert, try serving them over vanilla ice cream or yogurt. This dish also complements savory items such as cheese and chilies roll for a balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through, or gently reheat in a saucepan on low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Sweet Potatoes & Apples contains roughly 311 calories, with 0g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1220mg per serving (53% 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 other types of potatoes in this recipe?
While sweet potatoes provide a unique flavor, you can experiment with other starchy varieties like Yukon Gold or even a mix for a different taste. However, the texture and sweetness will differ, so adjust the sugar accordingly.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil and using maple syrup or agave nectar instead of brown sugar. This will give you a similar sweet and rich flavor.
How do I know when the sweet potatoes and apples are done cooking?
The sweet potatoes and apples are ready when they are both tender and easily pierced with a fork. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking, as they should retain their shape and not turn mushy.
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).