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Few side dishes scream comfort food like candied sweet potatoes—a beloved staple at American holiday dinners, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas. With their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, caramelized glaze, this dish strikes the perfect balance between sweet and buttery.

Whether you call them candied yams (even though they’re technically sweet potatoes!) or simply a must-have family tradition, this recipe delivers the best sticky, spiced, and irresistibly glazed version.

Your 10 Candied Sweet Potato Recipes…

Below, we’ll walk you through the various options, plus pro tips to make yours stand out!

1. Classic Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe (Stovetop Method)

Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Rich, buttery, caramelized perfection
✔ Easy stovetop method (no oven needed!)
✔ Perfect for holidays (Thanksgiving, Easter, Sunday dinners)
✔ Customizable—add marshmallows, pecans, or bourbon!

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes (about 4 medium), peeled & cut into 1-inch chunks
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (for richness)
• 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark for deep caramel flavor)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (balances sweetness)
• ½ cup water or orange juice (juice adds brightness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (enhances warmth)
• 1 tsp cinnamon (classic spice)
• ½ tsp nutmeg (optional, for depth)
• ¼ tsp salt (balances sweetness)
• 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional topping)

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Sweet Potatoes

• Peel and cut into even 1-inch chunks (uniform size ensures even cooking).
• (Optional) Parboil for 5 minutes to soften slightly, then drain.

Make the Caramel Glaze

• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
• Stir in brown sugar, granulated sugar, water (or orange juice), vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
• Cook 3-4 minutes until sugars dissolve into a smooth syrup.

Simmer Until Tender & Glazed

• Add sweet potatoes, coating evenly in the syrup.
• Reduce heat to low-medium and simmer 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are fork-tender and the glaze thickens.

Optional Marshmallow Finish

• Transfer to a baking dish, top with mini marshmallows, and broil 2-3 minutes until golden and toasted.

Serve & Enjoy!

• Best served warm, garnished with chopped pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Candied Sweet Potatoes

✅ Use fresh sweet potatoes (not canned) for the best texture.
✅ Low and slow cooking prevents burning and deepens flavor.
✅ Add a splash of bourbon or maple syrup for extra richness.
✅ Make ahead! Reheats well—just add marshmallows before serving.

Variations to Try

• Pecan Candied Sweet Potatoes – Stir in toasted pecans for crunch.
• Bourbon-Glazed – Add 2 tbsp bourbon to the syrup.
• Slow Cooker Method – Cook on low 3-4 hours for hands-off prep.

2. Maple-Glazed Candied Sweet Potatoes

A luxurious twist on the classic, this version swaps refined sugar for rich maple syrup, adding deep, earthy sweetness with a hint of smokiness. Perfect for an upscale holiday table or a cozy fall dinner.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled & cubed
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ¾ cup pure maple syrup (Grade A or B)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for extra caramelization)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup toasted pecans (for crunch, optional)

🍳 Instructions

1. Prep & Parboil: Peel and cube sweet potatoes; parboil 5 mins for faster cooking. Drain.
2. Make Glaze: Melt butter in a skillet, add maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla. Simmer 2 mins.
3. Coat & Cook: Toss sweet potatoes in glaze, simmer 25-30 mins until tender and glossy.
4. Finish: Top with toasted pecans before serving.

This classic candied sweet potatoes recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a sweet, buttery, and warmly spiced side dish. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving, Sunday dinner, or a potluck, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Let’s see our next candied sweet potato recipes…

3. Citrus-Bourbon Candied Sweet Potatoes

A sophisticated twist blending zesty orange and warm bourbon for a grown-up take on the classic. The bright citrus cuts through the sweetness, while bourbon adds a rich, caramelized depth—ideal for holiday entertaining.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled & cut into ½” coins
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup bourbon
• Zest + juice of 1 orange
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp flaky sea salt
• Fresh thyme sprigs (garnish)

🍳 Instructions

1. Sear Potatoes: In cast iron, melt butter over medium-high. Sear sweet potato coins 3 mins/side until golden. Remove.
2. Make Glaze: Reduce heat, add sugar, bourbon, orange zest/juice, and spices. Simmer 2 mins to burn off alcohol.
3. Candying: Return potatoes to pan, baste with glaze. Cover and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 mins. Uncover, broil 2 mins.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle with salt and thyme. Serve with extra orange zest.

4. Smoky Chipotle Candied Sweet Potatoes

For those who love sweet-heat balance, this version adds smoky chipotle peppers and a touch of cayenne to the classic glaze. The result? A bold, complex side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or holiday ham.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled & cut into wedges
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1-2 canned chipotle peppers in adobo, minced (adjust for heat)
• 1 tsp adobo sauce (from the can)
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra kick)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp lime juice (to brighten)
• Chopped cilantro (garnish)

🍳 Instructions

1. Roast Potatoes: Toss sweet potato wedges with oil, salt, and smoked paprika. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 mins until slightly tender.
2. Make Glaze: In a saucepan, melt butter, then stir in brown sugar, honey, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cayenne, and cinnamon. Simmer 5 mins until thickened.
3. Coat & Finish: Toss roasted potatoes in the glaze. Return to oven for 10-15 mins until caramelized. Drizzle with lime juice and garnish with cilantro.

5. Toasted Coconut Candied Sweet Potatoes

A tropical-inspired variant where coconut milk replaces butter, and toasted coconut flakes add crunch. The coconut’s natural sweetness lets you reduce added sugar, making it a lighter but equally decadent option.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled & cubed
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• ½ cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp cardamom
• ½ cup toasted coconut flakes
• 2 tbsp melted coconut oil
• Lime zest (garnish)

🍳 Instructions

1. Simmer in Coconut Milk: In a deep skillet, combine sweet potatoes, coconut milk, sugar, and spices. Simmer 25-30 mins until tender.
2. Toast Coconut: In a separate pan, toast coconut flakes with coconut oil until golden.
3. Serve: Spoon potatoes into a bowl, top with toasted coconut, and zest lime over top.

6. Coffee-Spiced Candied Sweet Potatoes

A barista-approved twist where finely ground coffee and dark chocolate shavings elevate the glaze into a rich, bittersweet masterpiece. Perfect for coffee lovers who want their dessert and caffeine in one bite!

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled & cut into thick rounds
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ¾ cup dark brown sugar
• 1 tbsp finely ground espresso (or dark roast coffee)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp sea salt
• 1 oz dark chocolate (70%), finely grated
• ½ cup chopped toasted hazelnuts (for crunch)

🍳 Instructions

1. Coffee-Butter Glaze: Melt butter in a skillet, then whisk in brown sugar, espresso powder, cinnamon, and salt until dissolved (2-3 mins).
2. Candying: Add sweet potato rounds in a single layer. Baste with glaze and simmer covered for 20 mins, then uncovered for 10 mins until caramelized.
3. Finish: Dust with grated dark chocolate and hazelnuts while warm.

7. Bacon-Maple Candied Sweet Potatoes

The ultimate sweet-savory mashup—smoky bacon fat replaces butter, while maple syrup and a hit of black pepper create a glaze that’s irresistibly sticky with a salty kick.

 Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled & cubed
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
• ½ cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
• ½ tsp cracked black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne
• 2 green onions, sliced

🍳 Instructions

1. Render Bacon: Cook diced bacon until crispy. Reserve fat; set bacon aside.
2. Glaze: In bacon fat, whisk maple syrup, vinegar, mustard, and spices. Simmer 3 mins.
3. Roast: Toss potatoes in glaze. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 30 mins, stirring once.
4. Serve: Top with crispy bacon and green onions.

8. Rosemary-Brown Butter Candied Sweet Potatoes

A fragrant, nutty upgrade where browned butter and fresh rosemary transform the classic into an elegant, aromatic side dish. Perfect for dinner parties or elevated holiday meals.

 Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled & cut into 1″ chunks
• ½ cup unsalted butter (for browning)
• ¾ cup light brown sugar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (plus extra for garnish)
• ½ tsp flaky sea salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup toasted pine nuts (optional, for crunch)

 🍳 Instructions

1. Brown Butter: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat until golden and nutty (3-4 mins). Remove from heat; discard solids.
2. Infuse: Add rosemary sprigs to warm butter; steep 10 mins. Remove rosemary.
3. Glaze: Stir in brown sugar, honey, salt, and pepper until dissolved.
4. Candying: Toss sweet potatoes in glaze. Roast at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 mins, basting twice.
5. Garnish: Sprinkle with pine nuts and fresh rosemary.

9. Pineapple-Glazed Candied Sweet Potatoes

A tropical escape on your plate—pineapple juice reduces into a sticky glaze, while toasted coconut adds island vibes. Ideal for summer BBQs or luau-themed parties!

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled & cut into spears
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup pineapple juice (fresh or bottled)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup toasted shredded coconut
• 2 tbsp macadamia nuts, chopped (optional)

🍳 Instructions

1. Reduce Glaze: Simmer pineapple juice, butter, sugar, and ginger until thickened (15 mins).
2. Roast: Toss sweet potato spears in glaze. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30 mins, flipping once.
3. Finish: Sprinkle with coconut and macadamias. Broil 1-2 mins for toastiness.

10 Miso-Caramel Candied Sweet Potatoes

Umami meets sweet in this Japanese-inspired twist—white miso paste deepens the caramel with savory complexity, while sesame seeds add crunch.

 Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled & cut into thick coins
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp white miso paste
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp mirin
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• Sliced scallions (garnish)

🍳 Instructions

1. Miso-Caramel: Melt butter, then whisk in sugar, miso, soy sauce, mirin, and ginger until smooth.
2. Glaze: Coat sweet potato coins in mixture. Roast at 375°F (190°C) for 30 mins, flipping once.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions.

🍠 Helpful Tips for Perfect Candied Sweet Potatoes

1. Choose the Right Potatoes

• Opt for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (often labeled as “yams” in U.S. stores) for the best sweetness and texture.
• Avoid white or purple sweet potatoes, as they’re starchier and less sweet.

1. Cut Evenly for Uniform Cooking

• Cut into 1-inch chunks or spears for even caramelization.
• Parboil for 5 minutes if you want to speed up cooking time.

1. Low & Slow Cooking

• Simmer the glaze on low heat to prevent burning.
• Stir occasionally to ensure even coating.

1. Balance Sweetness with Acid or Salt

• Add a splash of citrus juice (orange, lime, or lemon) to brighten flavors.
• A pinch of flaky sea salt enhances sweetness.

1. Make Ahead & Reheat

• Cook the sweet potatoes 1-2 days in advance and reheat in the oven with extra glaze.
• Add marshmallows or nuts just before serving to maintain texture.

FAQs About Candied Sweet Potato Recipes

Q: Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

A: Fresh is best for texture, but if using canned, drain well and reduce cooking time (they’re already soft).

Q: How do I fix a runny glaze?

A: Simmer longer to thicken, or mix 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp cold water into the glaze.

Q: Can I make this vegan?

A: Yes! Swap butter for coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Q: Why are my candied sweet potatoes mushy?

A: Overcooking or cutting too small can cause mushiness. Stick to 1-inch pieces and check tenderness with a fork.

Q: What’s the difference between candied yams and sweet potatoes?

A: In the U.S., “yams” are usually just orange sweet potatoes. True yams are starchier and less sweet.

Final Thoughts: Candied Sweet Potato Recipes

Candied sweet potatoes are a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that can be dressed up for holidays or simplified for weeknights. Whether you stick with the classic brown sugar glaze, experiment with spicy chipotle, or go luxe with bourbon-citrus, there’s a version for every taste.

Pro Tip: Double the recipe—leftovers (if you have any!) reheat beautifully. Serve warm, and watch them disappear!

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