WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Candied sweet potatoes are a timeless comfort food, especially loved during the holiday season. Their buttery, caramelized glaze wrapped around tender, slow-baked sweet potatoes brings warmth to any table. It’s the kind of dish that quietly steals the spotlight, with just the right balance of sweetness, spice, and rich texture.

Whether you’re preparing a festive Thanksgiving dinner or looking for a cozy Sunday side dish, this recipe never fails. It’s simple to make, but feels like a celebration all on its own. Once you try it, candied sweet potatoes might just become your favorite go-to side.

Why You’ll Love This Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

This recipe is all about indulgent flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The sweet potatoes are slow-roasted until they’re perfectly tender, then coated in a syrupy brown sugar glaze infused with cinnamon, vanilla, and butter. It’s nostalgic, rich, and comforting.

Plus, you can make this ahead of time, which is a huge bonus for busy holiday cooking. Reheated, it tastes just as good as when it comes straight from the oven.

Can I Use Yams or Only Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are preferred for their natural sweetness and smooth texture, but if you only have yams, they’ll work in a pinch. Just know that yams are starchier and less sweet, so the final dish may be slightly less tender and flavorful.

Ingredients for the Candied Sweet Potatoes

When it comes to classic candied sweet potatoes, every ingredient is there to create rich, buttery, and spiced caramel goodness.

• Sweet potatoes
• Brown sugar
• Unsalted butter
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Salt
• Vanilla extract
• Water

Each of these ingredients plays a key role. Sweet potatoes are the star, naturally sweet and earthy. Brown sugar builds the sticky caramel base, while unsalted butter brings silkiness. Cinnamon and nutmeg add that warming spice. A pinch of salt enhances every bite, vanilla extract adds depth, and water helps everything blend into a perfect glaze.

How To Make the Candied Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into thick, even rounds so they cook at the same rate. You want them firm enough to hold their shape but soft enough to soak in flavor.

Step 2: Layer and Combine

Place the sweet potatoes in a baking dish. In a small saucepan, melt butter with brown sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla. Stir until combined and just beginning to bubble.

Step 3: Pour and Bake

Pour the syrup over the sweet potatoes. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil, baste with the glaze, and bake uncovered for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the edges caramelize.

Step 4: Serve Warm

Give them a final spoon of syrup before serving. They should be tender, sticky, and glistening.

How to Store and Serve Candied Sweet Potatoes

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people generously, making it a fantastic side dish for family dinners or festive gatherings. Serve it warm right from the oven, ideally with a little extra glaze drizzled on top.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered, until warmed through. You can also reheat them on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the syrupy coating.

What to Serve With Candied Sweet Potatoes?

Herb-Rubbed Roast Chicken

Savory roasted chicken with garlic and thyme pairs perfectly with the sweetness.

Creamy Smothered Chicken

This rich and creamy dish balances beautifully against the syrupy potatoes.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

A bold and hearty protein to contrast the soft texture.

Classic Caprese Salad

The freshness and acidity help cut through the sweetness for a balanced meal.

Southern Cornbread Poppers

A crunchy, cheesy side that brings texture to the plate.

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Hearty and warming, it’s a great starter before digging into the sweet potatoes.

Crispy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls

For something unexpected and spicy, this fusion snack plays well with the sweet glaze.

Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If these candied sweet potatoes win your heart, try some of these other sides that bring comfort and flavor to your table:

• Cheesy Ranch Potatoes when you crave something creamy and savory.
• Greek Lemon Potatoes for a tangy, herby twist.
• Roasted Zucchini and Squash if you love a golden, oven-baked medley.
• Tennessee Onions for an ultra-cheesy baked veggie side.
• Southern Cornbread Poppers if you’re craving that savory Southern flair.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it any time.

Have you made these candied sweet potatoes already? Let me know in the comments if you added marshmallows or pecans. Or maybe a splash of bourbon?

Explore even more comfort food favorites and cozy fall recipes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Candied sweet potatoes are one of those dishes that bring everyone back to the table. They feel special but are so simple to make, which is part of their charm. Whether you serve them with a full holiday spread or just want something sweet and warm on a weeknight, they always hit the spot.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?