Easy Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

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When it comes to comfort food that feels like a warm hug from the South, nothing compares to Easy Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes. This timeless side dish brings rich, caramelized flavor and soft, buttery textures that are perfect for holidays or cozy Sunday dinners. Every bite tastes like tradition, wrapped in sweetness and love.

These sweet potatoes are simmered slowly with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg until they develop a sticky, golden glaze. They make the house smell like home and fill the table with the kind of dish everyone asks for seconds of. Whether you’re planning a festive spread or just craving a nostalgic taste of the South, this recipe delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

This dish is all about flavor and simplicity. You don’t need any special skills or tools, just good ingredients and a little patience. The sweet, buttery sauce infuses the potatoes as they cook, turning them into something unforgettable. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a comfort dish, and an effortless way to add soul to your meal.

What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Should I Use?

Stick with the classic orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, often labeled as yams in stores. They hold their shape well when cooked and have the perfect balance of sweetness and starch. Avoid white or purple sweet potatoes for this particular dish—they won’t deliver that same deep flavor and soft texture you’re aiming for.

Ingredients for the Easy Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

The ingredients for this dish are pantry staples, but when they come together, they transform into something extraordinary.

• Sweet Potatoes: The star of the dish. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the caramelized glaze.
• Butter: Adds richness and depth, helping the sugar to create that sticky, indulgent coating.
• Brown Sugar: Brings molasses notes and helps form the iconic candied glaze.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances the flavor and boosts the caramelization.
• Cinnamon: Warms the dish with cozy spice.
• Nutmeg: A touch of nutmeg adds a classic Southern depth.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor with a hint of warmth.
• Salt: Just enough to balance the sweetness and bring out all the other flavors.

How To Make the Easy Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into thick rounds. Try to keep the slices even for consistent cooking.

Step 2: Start the Caramel Base

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir gently until everything is well combined and the sugars begin to dissolve into the butter.

Step 3: Add the Sweet Potatoes

Carefully layer the sweet potato slices into the caramel mixture. Try to spoon some of the syrup over the top so they all get coated.

Step 4: Simmer Slowly

Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the potatoes simmer gently for 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally and basting the tops with the sauce. They should be tender but not falling apart.

Step 5: Finish with Vanilla

Once the potatoes are soft and coated in thick syrup, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving so the syrup thickens even more.

How to Serve and Store These Sweet Potatoes

This recipe serves about 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or holiday gathering. Serve warm, straight from the stove, alongside your favorite mains like baked ham, roast chicken, or turkey. They also pair beautifully with collard greens and cornbread.

To store, let the sweet potatoes cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With Easy Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes?

Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze

The sweet and savory combo is unbeatable and perfect for any holiday.

Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken

Balances the soft sweetness with a crispy, juicy bite.

Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey

Add a savory, slightly bitter element to complement the candied potatoes.

Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

Ultra-rich and cheesy, it’s a Southern favorite that goes hand in hand.

Buttermilk Cornbread

Perfect for soaking up the sweet glaze.

Cajun Potato Soup

A warm, spicy contrast that works especially well in cooler weather [link: https://lifewithzoe.com/cajun-potato-soup/]

Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad

A chilled, tangy counterpoint to all the richness [link: https://lifewithzoe.com/moms-signature-macaroni-salad/]

Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Another sweet side that layers perfectly with these potatoes [link: https://lifewithzoe.com/honey-butter-skillet-corn/]

Want More Southern Side Dish Ideas?

If you’re loving these Easy Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes, you might want to explore more down-home flavors. Check out these comfort-packed dishes:

• Cajun Potato Soup for a warm, spicy starter.
• Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad adds nostalgic summer vibes to your plate.
• Honey Butter Skillet Corn to double up on buttery sweetness.
• Cheesy Baked Ziti for an ooey-gooey twist that rounds out any meal.

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

Let me know in the comments how your batch turned out. Did you use a splash of orange juice or a dash of cloves? Did grandma ask for the recipe? I love hearing all your variations.

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Conclusion

Easy Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a nostalgic classic that never goes out of style. They’re simple to make, absolutely delicious, and always a hit at the table. Whether you’re serving them for Thanksgiving or Tuesday dinner, they’re sure to be the sweet highlight of your meal.

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