Glazed Candied Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are glazed with a rich mixture of brown sugar, orange juice, and grated orange rind, then baked to perfection. This dish offers a delightful combination of natural sweetness and citrus zest, making it an ideal side for holiday dinners or family gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash sweet potatoes, cover with water, and partially cook until just tender enough to be pierced with a fork.
- Drain well and set aside.
- Combine the oil or butter, brown sugar, orange juice, and grated orange rind in a small saucepan.
- Heat to boiling and cook for 2 minutes.
- Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them in half lengthwise.
- Place sweet potatoes in a shallow 8-inch square pan.
- Pour the syrup over the sweet potatoes.
- Bake in a slow oven at 300°F for 55 minutes or until well glazed.
- After the first 15 minutes, turn the potatoes and baste them with the syrup.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, choose sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes. If you don't have orange juice, substitute with apple juice for a different flavor. To thicken the glaze, you can mix in a bit of cornstarch if desired. Make sure to baste the potatoes frequently during baking to ensure they are evenly coated and caramelized.
Serving Suggestions
These glazed sweet potatoes make a delightful side for holiday meals or as part of a weeknight dinner. They pair beautifully with roasted meats or can be served alongside a fresh salad such as Tropical Apple Slaw for a balanced meal. For a comforting dessert, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover glazed sweet potatoes 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 until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quick reheating option, ensuring they do not dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glazed Candied Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 473 calories, with 1g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 for this recipe?
While sweet potatoes are ideal for this dish due to their natural sweetness, you can experiment with other potatoes like yams. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor will differ, so adjust the sugar and cooking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by replacing any butter with a plant-based alternative and ensuring the brown sugar is vegan. The other ingredients, such as sweet potatoes and orange juice, are already vegan-friendly, making this a simple adaptation.
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done baking?
The sweet potatoes are done when they are fork-tender and well glazed. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork, and the syrup should be thick and bubbly. Keep an eye on them during the last 15 minutes to prevent overcooking.
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).