Theresa Shea'S Candied Sweet Potatoes
Sweet and caramelized, these candied sweet potatoes offer a comforting side with rich brown sugar and buttery flavors, perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the sweet potatoes and boil with skins on for 30 minutes to 1 hour until firm but not overcooked. Cool and peel while still warm.
- Slice the boiled sweet potatoes and place them in an ovenproof dish with melted margarine on the bottom.
- Spoon melted butter on top of each slice and then cover each slice with dark brown sugar.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes to 1 hour until they reach your desired level of browning.
- Serve hot to hungry guests who will enjoy this delicious treat.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, use medium-sized sweet potatoes and ensure they are firm but not overcooked when boiling. You can substitute dark brown sugar with light brown sugar or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. If you prefer, you can use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free version. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the sweetness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these candied sweet potatoes as a delightful side dish for holiday meals or special occasions. They pair beautifully with savory dishes like venison over rice or roast turkey. For a complete meal, consider serving with a fresh salad or alongside Sue's Jello Salad for a colorful presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them in short intervals until warmed through, but this may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Theresa Shea'S Candied Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 541 calories, with 2g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 a day in advance. Boil and slice them, then layer them with butter and sugar in the dish. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. This makes it convenient for holiday meals or gatherings.
What if I don't have dark brown sugar?
If you don’t have dark brown sugar, you can use light brown sugar as a substitute. For a unique twist, try using honey or maple syrup, but adjust the water content slightly since these are liquid sweeteners.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled over the sweet potatoes before baking for added crunch and flavor. This addition complements the sweetness beautifully and makes for a more textured dish.
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).