Orange Candied Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are elevated with a bright orange syrup, topped with toasted marshmallows for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Perfect as a festive side or comforting treat, this dish combines the natural sweetness of potatoes with citrusy notes and gooey marshmallow topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch slices and arrange them in a buttered baking dish.
- Make a syrup by combining sugar, orange juice, salt, grated orange rind, and water.
- Pour the syrup over the potatoes, cover the dish, and bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes or until tender, basting occasionally.
- Uncover the dish in the last 10 minutes of baking and allow the potatoes to brown.
- Layer miniature marshmallows over the top and bake until the marshmallows are toasted just before removing from the oven.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper orange flavor, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur or using freshly squeezed orange juice instead of bottled. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup. To enhance texture, you can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. Ensure even cooking by slicing the sweet potatoes uniformly.
Serving Suggestions
These orange candied sweet potatoes are a delightful side dish for holiday meals or family dinners. They pair beautifully with roasted meats or vegetarian recipes, adding a vibrant color and flavor to your plate. Consider serving alongside dishes like Hen And Dressing or Rice And Vegetable Bake for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover orange candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil, warming in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. For a quick option, microwave in 1-minute intervals until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Candied Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 846 calories, with 10g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and potassium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1386mg per serving (60% 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 use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
While sweet potatoes are traditional for this dish, you can experiment with other varieties like butternut squash for a different flavor profile. However, cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure they are tender.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep the sweet potatoes and syrup a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply layer them in the dish and follow the instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make orange candied sweet potatoes vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter. Ensure that the marshmallows are vegan-friendly, or consider topping with toasted nuts for added crunch.
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).