Name: Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes: True Sweetness
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ½-inch thick rounds; ½ cup unsalted butter; ½ cup packed brown sugar; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ⅛ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

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Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes have a way of transporting me straight back to my grandmother’s kitchen, the air thick with the sweet, comforting aroma of cinnamon and caramel. Every holiday, she’d make this dish, and the glistening, tender sweet potato rounds were always the first to disappear from the table. These aren’t just sweet potatoes; they’re a taste of home, a hug in a bowl. Making them candied sweet potatoes southern style is surprisingly simple, and I’ve found that these old fashioned southern candied sweet potatoes bring a special kind of magic to any meal. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Incredible sweet and savory taste that melts in your mouth.
Super quick prep time – it’s an easy southern candied sweet potato recipe you can whip up fast.
A healthier side dish option packed with vitamins and fiber.
Budget-friendly ingredients that make a big impact.
A guaranteed family favorite that even picky eaters adore.
Perfectly tender sweet potatoes coated in a rich, buttery glaze.
This easy southern candied sweet potato recipe is a holiday table essential.
A comforting taste of Southern tradition in every bite.

Ingredients for Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Crafting these delightful brown sugar candied sweet potatoes southern style is a breeze with simple pantry staples. You’ll need about 4 medium sweet potatoes, which should be peeled and then sliced into uniform ½-inch thick rounds for even cooking. The magic really happens with the glaze, which starts with ½ cup of unsalted butter, melted to create a luscious base. We’ll mix in ½ cup of packed brown sugar and ¼ cup of granulated sugar to achieve that perfect syrupy sweetness.

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
½ cup unsalted butter – this creates the rich, glossy base for our glaze
½ cup packed brown sugar – essential for that classic caramelized sweetness
¼ cup granulated sugar – adds an extra layer of sweetness and helps the glaze thicken
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – brings warmth and that cozy, spiced flavor
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – a hint of this spice complements the cinnamon beautifully
⅛ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) – adds a lovely fragrant touch if you have it on hand

How to Make Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: First things first, let’s get your oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, peel your sweet potatoes and slice them into nice, even ½-inch thick rounds. Uniformity is key here so they cook evenly and become perfectly tender.
Step 2: Grab a large skillet, preferably one with a lid. Melt the ½ cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it’s all liquid and shimmering, add in the ½ cup packed brown sugar and the ¼ cup granulated sugar. Stir it all together until the sugars dissolve and it starts to bubble into a lovely syrup.
Step 3: Now, let’s add those warm spices to the syrup. Stir in the 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and that tiny pinch of ⅛ teaspoon salt. The smell is already amazing, isn’t it? This mixture is what makes how to make southern candied yams so delicious.
Step 4: Gently place your sweet potato slices into the skillet, arranging them in a single layer as much as possible. Toss them carefully with a spoon or spatula to make sure each slice is beautifully coated in that rich, buttery brown sugar glaze.
Step 5: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let everything simmer for about 30 minutes. During this time, you’ll want to stir and baste the sweet potatoes occasionally. This helps them cook through and absorb all that wonderful flavor – a crucial part of how to make southern candied yams.
Step 6: After 30 minutes, remove the lid. Continue to cook uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes. This is where the magic really happens as the syrup thickens and coats the sweet potatoes, turning them into that glorious, glazed dish you’re dreaming of.
Step 7: Once the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the glaze is wonderfully thick, turn off the heat. If you’re using it, stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract now for an extra fragrant touch.
Step 8: Let your beautiful southern candied sweet potatoes sit in the skillet for about 5 minutes before serving. This short rest allows the glaze to settle and thicken even more, ensuring each bite is perfectly glazed and absolutely delicious.

Pro Tips for the Best Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Achieving that perfect glaze and tender texture for your candied sweet potatoes southern style is all about a few key techniques. Don’t be afraid to experiment a little to find what works best for your kitchen!

Use orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like Garnet or Jewel; they have a creamier texture and richer flavor that’s perfect for this dish.
Keep the heat low and steady while simmering. Too high, and you risk burning the sugars before the sweet potatoes are tender.
Don’t skip the resting step! Letting the glazed sweet potatoes sit off the heat for a few minutes helps the syrup thicken and adhere beautifully.

What’s the secret to perfect Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes?

The real secret to perfect traditional southern candied sweet potatoes is patience and gentle heat. The combination of butter, brown sugar, and spices creates a luscious syrup that, when simmered slowly, transforms the sweet potatoes into tender, glazed perfection. Don’t rush this process!

Can I make Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can prep these ahead! Peel and slice your sweet potatoes up to a day in advance and store them submerged in water in the refrigerator. Drain and pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe. For more make-ahead tips, check out our guide on bread and butter pickles.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes?

A common pitfall is burning the sugar glaze; ensure your heat stays on medium-low and stir frequently. Another mistake is cutting the sweet potatoes too thin, which can lead to mushiness. Aim for consistent ½-inch slices. For more tips on achieving perfect textures, you might find our protein waffles recipe helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

These glorious candied sweet potatoes southern style are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic addition to any meal. They’re particularly wonderful as a holiday centerpiece, but don’t limit them to just Thanksgiving or Christmas! I love serving them alongside roasted turkey, ham, or even hidden valley ranch chicken for a true taste of Southern comfort food. They also pair beautifully with savory dishes like pork chops or a simple pot roast. Consider them your go-to southern candied sweet potato side dish when you want something a little sweet and deeply satisfying.

Nutrition Facts for Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

This delightful dish offers a sweet treat with a modest nutritional profile. Enjoying a serving of these homemade southern candied yams provides a good balance of carbohydrates and fiber. Remember that nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient choices and preparation methods. For a different kind of healthy side, explore our oven roasted garlic cabbage.

Serving Size: ½ cup
Calories: 240
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 26g
Sodium: 90mg
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Once your delicious homemade southern candied yams have cooled down completely, proper storage is key to preserving their wonderful flavor and texture. I like to let them sit at room temperature for about an hour before carefully transferring them into an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you won’t get to them within that time, freezing is a great option! Wrap them well in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they’ll keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is simple. For the best results, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or pop them in a moderate oven (around 325°F or 160°C) until heated through. This method helps maintain that lovely glazed consistency without drying them out. If you’re looking for other comforting dishes, consider our cheesy hamburger potato soup.

Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Got questions about this classic Southern dish? I’ve got answers to help you make the best candied sweet potatoes southern style!

What are Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes?

What are southern candied sweet potatoes? They are a beloved side dish where tender sweet potato slices are slowly simmered in a rich, buttery, brown sugar glaze, often with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. They’re a staple in Southern cuisine, known for their comforting sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Why are Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes popular?

Why are southern candied sweet potatoes popular? They’re popular because they offer a wonderful balance of sweet and savory, making them a perfect accompaniment to hearty main courses. They evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort, often associated with family gatherings and holidays, bringing a taste of tradition to the table.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?

While fresh is always best for texture, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Drain them well and gently fold them into the glaze. Just be careful not to stir too much, as they can break apart easily. This way, you can still enjoy a quick version of homemade southern candied yams.

What can I serve with Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes?

These sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile! They pair wonderfully with roasted meats like ham, turkey, or pork. They also complement fried chicken, pot roast, or even a simple baked fish. Think of them as a delicious southern candied sweet potato side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to balance savory flavors.

Variations of Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes You Can Try

While the classic stovetop method is divine, there are so many fun ways to switch up this beloved dish! For a delightful crunch and extra flavor, try adding a handful of chopped pecans towards the end of cooking to create candied sweet potatoes with pecans southern. If you’re looking for a make-ahead option, transforming this into a candied sweet potato casserole southern style is fantastic. Simply transfer the glazed sweet potatoes to a baking dish, top with more butter and brown sugar, and bake until bubbly. For a lighter version, you can reduce the sugar slightly or even use maple syrup for a different flavor profile. You could also try a slow cooker method if you prefer.