Sweet Potato Caramel
Sweet potato caramel combines tender roasted sweet potatoes with rich, buttery caramel, creating a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the brown sugar and flour.
- Melt the oleo in a frypan, then add the brown sugar and flour mixture.
- Stir in the condensed milk and salt.
- Cook the caramel until it reaches a soft ball stage.
- Place the sweet potatoes in a flat pan and sprinkle lightly with flour.
- Pour the cooked caramel over the sweet potatoes.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light. If you don't have oleo, unsalted butter is a great substitute. Ensure you stir the caramel continuously to prevent burning, and use a candy thermometer for precise cooking to reach the soft ball stage. If sweet potatoes are not available, butternut squash can be a delicious alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet potato caramel warm as a delightful dessert or a sweet side dish. It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added richness. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Old Fashioned Short Cake to enhance the overall flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the sweet potato caramel in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on low power, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Potato Caramel contains roughly 376 calories, with 8g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value) and protein (15% 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 sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use different varieties of sweet potatoes, such as purple or Japanese sweet potatoes. Each type will bring its unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment. Just ensure they are tender when cooked, as this will enhance the overall dish.
How do I know when the caramel is ready?
The caramel is ready when it reaches the soft ball stage, which is about 235°F to 240°F on a candy thermometer. You can also test it by dropping a small amount into cold water; if it forms a soft ball that holds its shape, it’s done.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caramel and sweet potatoes ahead of time. Simply refrigerate the caramel after cooking, and then combine it with the sweet potatoes before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
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).