Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

If you’re anything like me, there’s something undeniably cozy about a plate of sweet, buttery, and richly flavored sweet potatoes at any meal. This Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe is one of those dishes that’s so simple yet feels indulgently special — perfect for holiday dinners or a comforting side anytime. When I first tried this, I immediately loved how the syrupy glaze makes the potatoes tender and slightly caramelized, giving you that beautiful balance of sweet and warm spice. Stick around, because I’m going to share everything you need to make this fan-freaking-tastic recipe turn out just right every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe plays a role, balancing sweetness with a touch of warmth and richness. I love how the apple cider adds a slight tang and depth, while the optional bourbon adds a cozy kick that really elevates it.

• Butter: Using real butter is key for that rich, silky glaze and buttery flavor that makes this recipe shine.
• Sweet potatoes: Look for firm, fresh ones without soft spots — peeling and slicing into even ½-inch rounds helps them cook evenly.
• Dark brown sugar: Provides deep molasses notes and beautiful caramelization.
• Apple cider: Adds brightness and moisture, helping create that luscious syrup.
• Bourbon (optional): I discovered this trick when I added bourbon — it adds complexity without being overpowering, but feel free to skip it if you prefer.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings warm spice that perfectly complements the sweetness.
• Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Gives just a little contrast and depth without heat.

Variations

This Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe is a wonderful base to customize. Over the years, I’ve tweaked it based on what I had and who I was cooking for, and I encourage you to do the same to make it your own!

• Nutty Crunch: I love sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on top in the last 10 minutes of baking for a delightful crunch.
• Spiced Up: Sometimes I add a pinch of ground nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for a little more spice complexity.
• Bourbon-Free: For kid-friendly or alcohol-free versions, just skip the bourbon and add a splash more apple cider instead.
• Maple Syrup Swap: I’ve swapped brown sugar for pure maple syrup sometimes — it brings a different, natural sweetness that’s lovely with sweet potatoes.

How to Make Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prep your baking dish and oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F — this gives you a nice hot environment for caramelizing those sweet potatoes without drying them out. Brush your baking dish thoroughly with room temperature butter so the potatoes won’t stick, and so they get that perfect buttery base flavor.

Step 2: Whisk up your sweet glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter slowly—don’t rush or burn it! Once melted, whisk in the dark brown sugar, apple cider, bourbon (if you’re using it), and cinnamon. Bring it up to a gentle boil and then reduce to medium low to simmer for about 2 minutes until it thickens slightly. Here’s a tip: watch the syrup as it simmers — it should coat your spoon, but not be too thick or burnt!

Step 3: Layer and season

Now, arrange your sweet potato rounds in the buttered baking dish in layers, seasoning each layer lightly with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. This seasoning is what makes the flavors pop against the sweetness, so don’t skip it! Once layered, pour your warm syrup evenly over the potatoes. Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap steam and bake for 30 minutes — this helps the potatoes cook through gently.

Step 4: Finish baking uncovered

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and give everything a gentle stir to mix the glaze with the potatoes. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for about 40 more minutes. This step allows the sauce to thicken and thicken into a glossy coating, while the potatoes become tender without falling apart. You’ll want to test a slice with a fork — tender means it should go through easily but still hold shape.

How to Serve Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

I usually top the finished dish with a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans or even a little fresh chopped parsley for color and contrast. Sometimes a dollop of whipped butter right out of the oven takes it over the moon. I love these simple touches because they add texture and a pop of freshness that balances all that sweet richness.

Side Dishes

This recipe shines alongside classic roasted turkey or ham for holiday meals. I also enjoy pairing it with savory dishes like balsamic glazed chicken or even a spicy black bean chili to balance the sweetness. It’s versatile enough to fit with almost any savory entree.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes layer the sweet potatoes in a pretty glass casserole dish so the colorful rounds show through. Another fun presentation trick is serving them in mini ramekins for individual portions — it feels so elegant and works great for dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep any leftovers tightly covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheating gently brings back that luscious glaze without drying out the potatoes.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this recipe successfully by cooling completely, then placing portions in freezer-safe containers. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven to preserve texture and shine.

Reheating

My favorite way to reheat is covering the dish with foil and warming it in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it tends to make the syrup less glossy and potatoes a bit mushy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe comes together — it’s one of those dishes where simple ingredients create a magical combination of flavors and textures. Honestly, my family goes crazy for it every time, and it’s so easy to make that it quickly became a go-to for holidays and cozy dinners alike. If you’ve been hesitant about candied sweet potatoes before, give this version a shot — I promise you’ll be hooked! Plus, once you get the hang of layering the flavors and the glaze, it’s a dish you can tailor and enjoy year-round. Happy cooking, friend!

Print