Glazed Sweet Potatoes A Southern Comfort Classic
Glazed Sweet Potatoes A Southern Comfort Classic
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Introduction
Fancy some candied sweet potatoes ? Honestly, who doesn't! Do you remember your first time having them? I do! Think sticky, sweet, and utterly comforting.
This recipe gives you that nostalgia with a modern twist.
What's the Buzz About These Spuds?
This dish is a Southern staple, deeply rooted in Southern Cooking . Think cozy family dinners and holiday feasts. It's the Thanksgiving side dish .
This isn't just any side, it's a statement. It is so easy to make! Plus, you don't need to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen.
It takes about an hour to make and feeds six to eight people. Perfect for sharing, or not!
Why You'll Fall Head Over Heels
Sweet Potato Recipes are usually healthy, but this glazed sweet potato recipe balances healthy with a touch of indulgence. We are going to use real butter.
The combo of sweet potatoes, warm spices, and caramel is divine. Caramelized sweet potatoes are also totally acceptable for a sweet treat, making it an easy dessert recipe .
This recipe makes the best Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes , and the results is comfort food at its finest.
Unveiling the Ingredients for Caramel Sweet Potato Bake
Alright, let's gather our troops. You'll need sweet potatoes, obviously. About 1.36 kg to be exact. Grab some butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Oh, and don't forget vanilla extract!
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. We're making glazed sweet potatoes. Think of it like a hug in food form.
These are not your average potatoes. This is a Southern Cooking masterpiece. This Thanksgiving side dish is so good. It might just steal the show.
Ingredients & Equipment
It's all about getting the right stuff, innit? Quality counts, even with a simple Easy Dessert Recipe like this. This brings comfort food to a whole new level.
Candied sweet potatoes are about to become your new favorite thing.
Main Players: Sweet Potatoes
You'll need 3 pounds of sweet potatoes (about 1.36 kg ). Get ones that feel heavy for their size.
That means they're packed with goodness! Peel 'em and slice into 1-inch thick rounds. Even slices mean even cooking. Seriously, this is important!.
Sweet Stuff: The Caramel
- ½ cup ( 113g ) unsalted butter. Go for the good stuff!
- ¾ cup ( 150g ) packed light brown sugar. Makes the caramel chef's kiss .
- ½ cup ( 100g ) granulated sugar. Balances the brown sugar perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon ( 2.5 ml ) ground cinnamon. Because everything's better with cinnamon.
- ¼ teaspoon ( 1.25 ml ) each of ground nutmeg and ginger. These are your secret weapons!
- ¼ teaspoon ( 1.25 ml ) salt. Enhances all the sweet flavors.
- ½ cup ( 120 ml ) water. To make that gorgeous sauce.
- 1 teaspoon ( 5 ml ) vanilla extract. Don't skip this!
Seasoning Notes
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are a must. These spices give it that warm, autumnal vibe. No nutmeg? A pinch of allspice works in a pinch.
For a flavor boost, try a tiny dash of orange zest. Seriously, it's a game changer!. Wanna add some fire? A pinch of cayenne pepper is amazing.
Equipment Needed
You don't need fancy gear. A 9x13 inch baking dish is essential. A large saucepan for the caramel sauce is next.
Get a whisk for smooth mixing and a vegetable peeler. A chef’s knife for slicing is also needed. No fancy mandoline required.
If you haven't got a whisk, a fork will do. Just make sure everything's mixed well. This Glazed Sweet Potato Recipe is all about simplicity.
Mastering the Art of Glazed Sweet Potatoes
Alright, let's talk about the glorious world of glazed sweet potatoes ! This isn't just any old side dish. It's comfort food at its finest.
I'm talking about that warm, fuzzy feeling you get biting into a perfectly caramelized sweet potato . It's perfect for Holiday Recipes and Thanksgiving side dish , but honestly, I'd eat this any day of the week.
You know?
Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic
First things first, let's get our ducks in a row. Peeling and slicing 3 pounds of sweet potatoes into 1-inch rounds is key.
Make sure they're even! Then, cube ½ cup of butter. Measure out your spices, sugars, water and vanilla extract. Having everything ready beforehand saves so much time! I always hated when I didn't do it and realized I was missing some ingredients during cooking.
Step-by-Step: Sweet Potato Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) .
- Melt ½ cup butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add ¾ cup brown sugar, ½ cup granulated sugar, ½ tsp cinnamon, ¼ tsp nutmeg, ¼ tsp ginger, and ¼ tsp salt.
- Pour in ½ cup water and simmer. Stir until smooth.
- Arrange the sweet potato slices in a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Pour the caramel sauce over the Sweet Potato Recipes .
- Bake for 45 minutes . Baste halfway through. The potatoes should be fork-tender.
- Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and let cool.
Pro Tips for Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
Want to take your candied sweet potatoes to the next level? Basting is a game changer! Don't skip that step.
A common mistake? Overbaking. Mushy potatoes are a no-go! Test with a fork for that perfect tenderness. If you want to get fancy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper! This will make your sweet potato dessert the star of any meal.
Recipe Notes
These candied sweet potatoes are a total winner. Want the goss on how to make them even more amazing? Sorted.
This sweet potato casserole is the perfect Thanksgiving side dish and I'm spilling all my secrets.
Serving Suggestions – Plating like a Pro
Okay, let's talk presentation. Honestly, these glazed sweet potatoes look amazing piled high in a bowl. For extra points, sprinkle some chopped pecans on top.
Fancy, right? They are amazing holiday recipes . Think about serving them alongside roasted turkey or ham. A dollop of sour cream? Trust me.
Southern Cooking at its best. And don't forget a nice glass of chilled Chardonnay. Chef's kiss!
Storage Tips – Keeping the Sweetness Alive
So, you've got leftovers? Lucky you! Let those caramelized sweet potatoes cool completely. Then, pop them in an airtight container and into the fridge.
They'll keep for about 3-4 days. For freezing, lay them flat in a freezer bag to prevent sticking. Reheating? Gentle does it! Oven or microwave works a treat.
No one wants soggy sweet potatoes! I had to be careful not to overbake them. It is easy to make this easy dessert recipe .
Variations – Remix Your Sweet Potato Game
Want to mix it up? Course you do! For a lighter version, try using less butter. Mind blown! Or try adding a dash of maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
It will add a warm taste and the smell is beautiful!. For a vegan option, use plant-based butter and make sure your sugar is vegan-friendly.
Boom! As for seasonal swaps, why not try adding cranberries or orange zest for a festive twist?
Nutrition Basics – Goodness in Every Bite
Alright, let's get real. While these candied yams are delish, they are still a treat. Sweet potatoes themselves are packed with vitamin A and fiber.
However, all that brown sugar sweet potatoes goodness adds up. Keep it balanced, yeah? Think of it as a Sweet Potato Dessert .
Remember, moderation is key. This recipe is also comfort food at its best.
So there you have it! Everything you need to make the perfect candied sweet potatoes . Don't be afraid to get creative and make them your own.
And remember, cooking is all about having fun. So grab your apron and get baking! Glazed Vegetables are the best!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make candied sweet potatoes ahead of time? Like, days before my big roast?
Absolutely! Candied sweet potatoes are great for making ahead. Prepare them completely, let them cool, and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Just like a good cup of tea, these can get better with time, as the flavors meld together.
My candied sweet potatoes turned out a bit mushy. What did I do wrong, and how can I avoid it next time?
Ah, the dreaded mushy sweet potato! This usually happens when they're overcooked. Sweet potatoes continue to cook even after you take them out of the oven, so aim for them to be just fork-tender. Next time, start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier. Also, ensure your oven temperature is accurate and that your sweet potatoes are cut into even sizes for consistent cooking.
What are some good variations I can try to spice up my candied sweet potatoes?
Fancy a twist? You can add a splash of bourbon or rum to the caramel sauce for an extra kick. A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch. For a spicier take, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor profile. Think of it like jazz; take the basic tune and improvise!
How should I store leftover candied sweet potatoes, and how long will they last?
Leftover candied sweet potatoes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll stay good for about 3-4 days. Reheat them gently in the oven, microwave, or even a saucepan on the stovetop. Add a tiny splash of water or milk when reheating to prevent them from drying out; no one wants a dried-up sweet potato!
Are candied sweet potatoes healthy? What's the nutritional lowdown?
While incredibly delicious, candied sweet potatoes are a treat, so moderation is key. Sweet potatoes themselves are packed with vitamins and fiber, which is great. The added butter and sugar increase the calorie and sugar content significantly. It's like a delicious indulgence, and like all good things, enjoy in moderation!
Can I make vegan candied sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can definitely make a vegan version. Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative. Also, it's worth checking the source of the sugars to ensure it is not processed using bone char. These swaps will provide the same great flavour of candied sweet potatoes, without the animal products.
