Here’s a Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes recipe, just like Grandma used to make—tender sweet potatoes simmered in a buttery, spiced brown sugar syrup until caramelized and rich. It’s a Southern holiday staple but delicious any time of year.
🍠 Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
✅ Ingredients:
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4–5 medium sweet potatoes (about 2.5–3 lbs), peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
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1 cup brown sugar (light or dark, packed)
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1½ tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp ground nutmeg
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¼ tsp ground ginger (optional, adds warmth)
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Pinch of salt
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, cut into chunks
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2–3 Tbsp water (or orange juice for extra flavor)
📝 Instructions:
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Prep the Sweet Potatoes:
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Peel the sweet potatoes and slice into ½-inch thick rounds. Try to keep the slices uniform for even cooking.
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Layer in the Pan:
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In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan (12-inch or larger), arrange the sweet potatoes in an even layer. It’s okay if they overlap slightly.
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Add Sugars & Spices:
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Sprinkle the brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), and a pinch of salt evenly over the sweet potatoes.
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Add Butter and Liquid:
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Dot the top with butter chunks. Drizzle vanilla and water (or orange juice) over the top.
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Cook Low & Slow:
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Cover with a tight-fitting lid. Turn heat to medium-low and cook for 40–50 minutes, gently stirring every 10–15 minutes to coat the potatoes in the syrup.
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As the sugar melts and mixes with the butter, it will form a thick, glossy glaze.
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Uncover & Thicken:
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Once the sweet potatoes are tender (check with a fork), uncover the pot and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes to allow the syrup to thicken and caramelize a bit more. Stir gently to avoid breaking up the potatoes.
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Serve Warm:
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Spoon the candied syrup over the potatoes when serving. Serve as a side dish—perfect for Thanksgiving, Sunday dinners, or whenever you want some soul food comfort.
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🍴 Tips:
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Don’t over-stir—sweet potatoes get tender and can break apart. Use a spoon or spatula to gently turn them.
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For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream or a few marshmallows during the last 5 minutes.
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You can make this dish ahead of time—just reheat gently on the stove or in the oven with a bit of extra