Get ready to indulge in a world of sugary sweetness with these 18 decadent candied sweet potato recipes! From classic maple glazed to bourbon-infused and spiced rum, each recipe on this list is designed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking for a unique side dish to impress your holiday guests or a comforting treat to enjoy on a chilly fall day, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of candied sweet potatoes and highlighting some of the most delicious and creative recipes out there. From traditional spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to more unexpected ingredients like cardamom and rosemary, these sweet potato recipes are sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Maple Glazed Candied Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes get a luxurious upgrade with this simple recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavor of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potato cubes and maple syrup. Toss until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Add brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and salt to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the sweet potato mixture in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Sugar Pecan Candied Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavors of brown sugar, pecans, and spices to create a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
4. Remove sweet potatoes from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Slice sweet potatoes in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over sweet potatoes and sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over them.
7. Top each sweet potato with chopped pecans.
8. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sugar is caramelized.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour total
Bourbon Infused Candied Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and savory twist on traditional candied yams. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich, velvety smoothness of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large saucepan, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, corn syrup, and bourbon. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
5. Arrange sweet potato slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with the bourbon-infused glaze.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
7. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts over the top of the sweet potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Honey Cinnamon Candied Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes get a sweet and sticky makeover with this easy recipe, perfect for a side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Add the sweet potato cubes to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the honey mixture.
5. Pour in the water and toss again to ensure all pieces are moistened.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread out the sweet potatoes in a single layer.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are caramelized and tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orange Zest Candied Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe! Orange zest adds a burst of citrusy goodness to the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, orange juice, and grated zest. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove sweet potatoes from oven and slice them in half lengthwise. Scoop out some of the flesh to create a well for the candied mixture.
5. Spoon the orange-zest mixture into the wells, followed by a pat of butter.
6. Return sweet potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Vanilla Bean Candied Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warmth of vanilla bean. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a show-stopping side at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla powder)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Add melted butter, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean paste/powder. Mix until the sweet potatoes are well coated.
4. Pour in water and mix until the sweet potatoes are fully submerged.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Spiced Rum Candied Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your holiday gathering with this unique and delicious side dish, featuring the warm spices of rum and the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup spiced rum (such as Captain Morgan)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, and spiced rum. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until mixture thickens slightly.
4. Arrange sweet potato slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the spiced rum glaze evenly over the sweet potatoes.
6. Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Coconut Milk Candied Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your sweet potato game with this creamy and sweet twist! These candied sweet potatoes are infused with the rich flavors of coconut milk, brown sugar, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a small saucepan, combine coconut milk, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Remove sweet potatoes from the oven and let cool slightly. Slice into 1-inch thick rounds.
5. Brush both sides of each sweet potato slice with the warm coconut milk mixture.
6. Return sweet potatoes to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until caramelized.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 55-60 minutes.
Gingerbread Candied Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your holiday table with this unique and flavorful side dish that combines the warmth of gingerbread spices with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, brown sugar, chopped ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Toss until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Place the sweet potato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with heavy cream and dot with butter.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pineapple Glazed Candied Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tanginess of pineapple. This glaze adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together brown sugar, granulated sugar, pineapple juice, honey, olive oil, vanilla extract, and salt in a small bowl.
4. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and brush with the pineapple glaze.
5. Return the sweet potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until caramelized.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Cardamom Candied Sweet Potatoes
A sweet and aromatic twist on traditional candied yams, these Cardamom Candied Sweet Potatoes are perfect for the holiday season. The warm, spicy flavor of cardamom pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a small saucepan, combine sugars, cardamom, and salt. Add water and bring to a boil over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly.
5. Remove sweet potatoes from oven and let cool slightly. Slice into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
6. Place sweet potato slices in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour warm cardamom syrup over the top.
7. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Rosemary Brown Butter Candied Sweet Potatoes
Rosemary Brown Butter Candied Sweet Potatoes: Elevate your side dish game with this aromatic and indulgent recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of rosemary and brown butter.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with salt.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped rosemary and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add sugar to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add sweet potato cubes to the pan and toss to coat evenly with the brown butter mixture.
6. Transfer sweet potatoes to a baking dish and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Toasted Marshmallow Candied Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your holiday gatherings with these indulgent sweet potatoes, smothered in a toasted marshmallow and candied goodness. This recipe is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup marshmallows
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
4. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
5. Remove sweet potatoes from oven and slice into thick rounds.
6. Brush the sweet potato slices with the candied mixture and top with toasted marshmallows (toasted in a toaster or under broiler).
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Caramelized Candied Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts
Transform ordinary sweet potatoes into a decadent side dish by caramelizing them to perfection and adding crunchy walnuts. This recipe is perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with sugar and melted butter until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the sweet potato mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
5. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the sweet potatoes and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until walnuts are toasted.
6. Remove from the oven and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple Cider Candied Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your holiday sides with these Apple Cider Candied Sweet Potatoes. The perfect blend of sweet and savory, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Bake the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
4. While the sweet potatoes are baking, combine apple cider, brown sugar, honey, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a saucepan.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the mixture is syrupy.
6. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
7. Slice the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise and spoon some of the apple cider glaze over each half.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes
Chai Spiced Candied Sweet Potatoes
Transform sweet potatoes into a fragrant and flavorful side dish by infusing them with the warmth of chai spices. This recipe is perfect for the fall season, as the aromas of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger fill your home with cozy comfort.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, honey, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove sweet potatoes from the oven and let cool slightly. Slice into 1-inch thick rounds.
5. Brush both sides of the sweet potato slices with the chai-spiced syrup.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Molasses Glazed Candied Sweet Potatoes
Sweet Potato Delight: Molasses Glazed Candied Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and savory side dish, featuring tender candied sweet potatoes smothered in a rich molasses glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes and granulated sugar. Toss until coated.
3. Spread the sweet potato mixture on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 45 minutes or until tender, flipping halfway through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the molasses glaze by whisking together brown sugar, molasses, water, and butter in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove sweet potatoes from oven and brush with the warm molasses glaze. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Pumpkin Pie Spiced Candied Sweet Potatoes
Add a twist to traditional sweet potatoes with the warm spices of pumpkin pie. These sweet and sticky tubers are perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to add some autumnal flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a small saucepan.
4. Add pumpkin puree, butter, and water to the saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Remove sweet potatoes from oven and let cool slightly. Slice them into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick rounds.
6. Brush sweet potato slices with the pumpkin pie spiced glaze and serve.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 18 decadent candied sweet potato recipes! From classic maple glazed to bourbon-infused and chai-spiced, there’s a flavor combination to satisfy any craving. Treat yourself to brown sugar pecan or orange zest, or go bold with gingerbread or toasted marshmallow. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, dessert, or snack, these sweet potatoes are irresistibly delicious. Get ready to indulge in the ultimate sweet potato experience and discover new ways to make this humble root vegetable truly unforgettable!
