Old Fashioned Candied Sweet Potatoes
Old Fashioned Candied Sweet Potatoes offer a comforting blend of tender potatoes glazed with sweet syrup and a hint of cinnamon, perfect for holiday tables or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them lengthwise.
- Place the potatoes in a large saucepan and add sugar, butter, and boiling water.
- Cover the saucepan and boil rapidly for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the lid and cook slowly until the syrup thickens and the potatoes are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh, firm sweet potatoes. If you prefer a healthier option, consider reducing the sugar to 1 cup and adding a touch of honey for sweetness. You can also substitute the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. A dash of nutmeg can also enhance the flavor if you like. This recipe is a great complement to American recipes like roasted turkey.
Serving Suggestions
These candied sweet potatoes make a delightful side dish for holiday dinners or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with roasted meats or can be served alongside vegetarian recipes for a hearty meal. Garnish with chopped pecans or marshmallows for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Candied Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 603 calories, with 9g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 7g 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 use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
While you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch, fresh sweet potatoes yield the best texture and flavor. Canned varieties are typically softer and may not hold up well in the cooking process. If you do use canned, reduce the cooking time significantly to avoid mushiness.
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?
The sweet potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, and the syrup has thickened. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes after removing the lid. Keep an eye on the mixture to prevent burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the candied sweet potatoes a day in advance. Cook them according to the recipe, let them cool, and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed through.
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).