Classic Candied Sweet Potatoes
Sweet and tender candied sweet potatoes glazed with butter, brown sugar, lemon zest, and ginger, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil sweet potatoes until tender; drain.
- Peel and cut potatoes lengthwise into 1/2-inch slices.
- Melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat.
- Add grated lemon rind and ground ginger.
- Put potatoes in a shallow, well buttered baking pan.
- Pour butter-sugar mixture on top of the potatoes.
- Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes, or until glazed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. If you prefer a bit of spice, you can substitute ground cinnamon for the ground ginger. You can also use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique twist. Make sure to choose sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
These candied sweet potatoes make a delightful side dish for holiday meals or any family gathering. They pair beautifully with roasted meats or vegetarian recipes like Terry'S Zucchini Pie. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh salad or Tangy Fruit And Nut Cole Slaw for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Classic Candied Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 537 calories, with 4g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 4g 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 prepare candied sweet potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and the butter-sugar mixture a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply combine them and follow the baking instructions. This makes it convenient for holiday prep or busy weeknights.
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
While sweet potatoes are traditional for this dish, you can experiment with other starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold. However, the flavor and texture will differ. Sweet potatoes are sweeter and creamier, making them the preferred choice for candied preparations.
What can I do with leftover candied sweet potatoes?
Leftover candied sweet potatoes can be used in various ways. Consider mashing them for a sweet potato pie filling or incorporating them into pancakes for breakfast. They can also be added to salads for a sweet touch or blended into smoothies for a nutritious boost.
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).