Candied Sweet Potatoes(Spicy)
Sweet and spicy candied sweet potatoes with a caramelized glaze, perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family meals, blending cinnamon and sugary richness for a comforting flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the sweet potatoes and reserve the liquid.
- Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise.
- Place the potatoes in a greased 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish.
- Mix the sugar and cinnamon together.
- Stir the margarine into 1 cup of the reserved potato liquid until melted.
- Add the sugar and cinnamon mixture to the liquid and heat until the margarine is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the syrup over the sweet potatoes.
- Bake in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 30 to 45 minutes or until the syrup is thickened and the potatoes are heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added spice, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper into the sugar and cinnamon mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute brown sugar for white sugar to enhance the flavor. Using fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned will yield a fresher taste, but you'll need to cook them beforehand. This recipe pairs well with savory dishes like roasted meats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these candied sweet potatoes as a delicious side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. They complement roasted turkey or ham beautifully. For a complete meal, pair them with a fresh salad like Chef Salad Sauce to balance the sweetness. You can also enjoy them as a sweet treat alongside desserts like No Bake Whiskey Balls.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sweet potatoes in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a 350°F (180°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. If desired, add a splash of reserved liquid to revive the syrup.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Sweet Potatoes(Spicy) contains roughly 649 calories, with 3g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg per serving (27% 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 sweet potatoes instead of canned?
Yes, using fresh sweet potatoes will enhance the flavor of the dish. Simply peel, boil them until tender, and then slice them before following the same recipe instructions. This may require additional cooking time, but the results will be worth it.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! You can easily make this dish vegan by substituting the margarine with a plant-based butter alternative. Additionally, using coconut sugar instead of regular sugar can add a unique flavor while keeping it within vegan recipes.
How can I make the syrup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker syrup, you can simmer the liquid mixture on the stovetop for a few extra minutes before pouring it over the sweet potatoes. This will allow the syrup to reduce and thicken, creating a more concentrated flavor.
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).