Candied Sweet Potatoes With Apricots
Candied Sweet Potatoes With Apricots combines tender sweet potatoes with sweet apricots and a hint of orange rind, finished with a crunchy walnut topping. This comforting dish offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for family dinners or special occasions that crave a sweet-savory touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cut the cooked sweet potatoes into thick slices.
- Arrange one layer of sweet potato slices in a greased 10x6x2 inch baking dish.
- Cover with a layer of drained apricots sprinkled with some brown sugar.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used.
- Combine melted butter, reserved apricot liquid, and grated orange rind to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the layered sweet potatoes and apricots.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, basting once or twice with the liquid from the bottom of the dish.
- During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the brown sugar mixture. If fresh apricots are in season, you can use them instead of canned for a fresher taste. Additionally, if you're looking to reduce sugar, you can substitute half of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist. Make sure to slice the sweet potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve candied sweet potatoes with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with Green Chili Corn Bread, making for a delicious and comforting combination. This dish can also be a delightful side for holiday gatherings or family dinners, offering a sweet contrast to savory mains.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the candied sweet potatoes in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Sweet Potatoes With Apricots contains roughly 1129 calories, with 14g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (60% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fruits in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like peaches or pears. Just ensure they are cooked and drained properly to maintain the dish's desired consistency. Mixing in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can also add a nice texture and sweetness.
What should I do if I don't have brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can create a substitute by combining white sugar with a bit of molasses. Use 1 cup of white sugar and add about 1 tablespoon of molasses to achieve a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, use coconut sugar for a more natural sweetener.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers and assemble the dish a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply uncover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's chilled.
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).