Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. This recipe is forgiving. Making it ahead often makes serving easier and lets the flavors settle naturally. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I use yams or other potatoes?

You can use other sweet, firm-root vegetables. Yams are often interchangeable in texture, though cooking times may vary slightly.

How do I prevent the syrup from burning?

Bake at a steady, moderate temperature and cover with foil for the initial bake. Uncover for the final stage to allow the syrup to thicken without direct overexposure to heat.

Will this work with less sugar?

Yes. You can reduce brown sugar and increase maple syrup or natural sweeteners to taste. The texture may be a touch lighter, but the dish will remain comforting.

Can I make this for a large crowd?

Absolutely. Multiply ingredients and use a larger, shallow baking dish. Bake for a slightly longer time if the dish is deeper, checking for tender centers.

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes 29

Name: Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 pinch salt

Description

A comforting dessert featuring sliced sweet potatoes baked in a glossy syrup of butter, brown sugar, and spices.

Ingredients

Scale

4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1 pinch salt

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into even rounds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
Place the sliced potatoes in a shallow baking dish in slightly overlapping layers.
In a small bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Pour the syrup evenly over the potatoes, let it seep between the slices.
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil, baste with the syrup from the pan, and return uncovered for 15 to 25 minutes.
Look for tender centers and caramelized edges, then allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Use substitutions like coconut sugar for brown sugar or dairy-free butter if needed.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 33g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg