Mama'S Candied Sweet Potatoes
Sweet and buttery candied sweet potatoes topped with toasted marshmallows, perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners, offering a comforting blend of sweetness and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil sweet potatoes until very tender.
- Drain the sweet potatoes.
- Add butter and sugar to the potatoes.
- Cook over medium heat for 20 to 30 minutes until a syrup forms and boils slowly around the potatoes.
- Remove the potatoes from the syrup with a large spoon and arrange in a casserole or 9 x 13 x 2-inch pan.
- Pour the syrup over the potatoes and top with marshmallows.
- Bake at 300°F until marshmallows are golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you're short on time, microwave the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them. You can also substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine for a dairy-free option. To enhance the dish, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the syrup.
Serving Suggestions
These candied sweet potatoes make a delightful side dish for holiday meals, especially during Thanksgiving. They pair beautifully with savory dishes like glazed ham or roast chicken. For a complete meal, serve alongside Green Bean Italiano for a colorful, balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama'S Candied Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 503 calories, with 3g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% of the Daily Value). 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and syrup a day in advance. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator. On the day you plan to serve them, combine and bake as instructed to enjoy them warm and gooey.
What can I use instead of marshmallows?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to marshmallows, try topping with chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture. You could also use a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness and depth.
How can I adjust the sweetness of this dish?
To adjust the sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sugar to your taste. Alternatively, consider using unsweetened apple sauce or pureed dates as a natural sweetener, which will add flavor without overwhelming sweetness.
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).