Gramma'S Candied Sweet Potatoes
Sweet and syrupy candied sweet potatoes with a warm hint of nutmeg, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners and holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil whole sweet potatoes until tender.
- Let the sweet potatoes cool before peeling.
- Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into quarters.
- Place the cut potatoes in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Sprinkle sugar, vanilla, and water over the potatoes.
- Dot the potatoes and sugar with butter and sprinkle lightly with nutmeg.
- Bake at 325° to 350°F until the syrup thickens.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh sweet potatoes and ensure they are tender before peeling. If you're short on time, you can use canned sweet potatoes, but fresh ones give the best texture. Adjust the sugar to your taste; for less sweetness, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these candied sweet potatoes alongside savory dishes like roasted chicken or ham for a delightful contrast. They also pair beautifully with Nanny'S Banana Pudding for a comforting meal. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with toasted pecans or marshmallows before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover candied 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 the oven at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gramma'S Candied Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 156 calories, with 1g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% 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 make candied sweet potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Simply follow the instructions up to baking, cover the prepared dish with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What can I substitute for butter?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. Both options will maintain the richness of the dish while accommodating dietary needs.
Can I add other ingredients to the recipe?
Absolutely! You can enhance the dish by adding chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, or even dried cranberries for a touch of tartness. For a more festive flavor, consider incorporating orange zest or a splash of orange juice into the mixture.
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).