Orange Glazed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes glazed with a vibrant orange sauce offer a perfect balance of natural sweetness and citrusy brightness. The tender potatoes coated in a tangy, sweet glaze make an inviting side dish suitable for family dinners or festive occasions, appealing to those who enjoy flavorful, wholesome comfort foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the sweet potatoes and split them lengthwise.
- Place the sweet potatoes in water and cook on medium heat for 12 minutes, then drain.
- Bring sugar, cornstarch, water, butter, orange juice, orange rind, lemon juice, salt, and cinnamon to a boil to make the orange glaze sauce.
- Cover the cooked sweet potatoes with the orange glaze sauce.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes or until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute half of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness. Ensure the sweet potatoes are uniform in size for even cooking, and you can use leftover glaze on pancakes or waffles for a delicious twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these orange glazed sweet potatoes as a delightful side dish for holiday meals or alongside grilled meats. They pair beautifully with Country Cornbread for a comforting spread. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sweet potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Glazed Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 158 calories, with 2g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g 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 other types of potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
While sweet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their natural sweetness, you can experiment with regular potatoes. However, the glaze may need adjustment to complement their flavor. Russet or Yukon gold potatoes can work, but they will yield a different texture and taste.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily make this dish vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Additionally, ensure the sugar you use is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
Can I make the orange glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the orange glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it gently before pouring it over the sweet potatoes to ensure it’s warm and runny when serving.
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).