Candied sweet potatoes have always held a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings and the warm aroma filling the kitchen. There’s just something magical about that combination of flavors, where tender sweet potatoes meet rich butter and a hint of cinnamon, all topped with fluffy marshmallows. It’s a dish that truly embodies comfort and joy, perfect for holidays or any day you want a taste of home.
What makes these candied sweet potatoes exceptional is their delightful sweetness and the beautiful golden crust of melted marshmallows. Whether you’re creating a holiday feast or simply want to enjoy a cozy side dish with dinner, this recipe is a winner for both kids and adults alike.
Why you’ll love candied sweet potatoes
- Quick to prepare and bake
- Irresistibly sweet and flavorful
- A crowd-pleaser for gatherings
- Minimal cleanup with fewer dishes
- Perfect for meal prep or freezing
What ingredients do I need for candied sweet potatoes?
- Sweet potatoes
- Butter or margarine
- Brown sugar
- Cinnamon
- Marshmallows
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Sweet potatoes: They’re the star of the dish. Try using butternut squash for a twist.
- Butter or margarine: Either works; butter gives a rich flavor, while margarine is a vegan option.
- Brown sugar: You can substitute with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows melt more evenly but feel free to use full-size ones too.
How do I make candied sweet potatoes step-by-step?
To make candied sweet potatoes, simply peel and slice the sweet potatoes, then mix them with a delicious blend of melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour this mixture into a baking dish, top it with marshmallows, and bake until tender and golden.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and slice sweet potatoes into rounds.
- In a large bowl, mix sweet potatoes with melted butter or margarine, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Place the mixture in a baking dish and top with marshmallows.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the marshmallows are golden brown.
Pro Tip: Let the dish cool for a few minutes after baking for easier serving and to let the marshmallows set slightly. Visual doneness cues: Look for tender sweet potatoes that you can easily pierce with a fork and marshmallows that are light golden brown.
How should I serve it?
Candied sweet potatoes can be served as a delightful side at any meal, especially alongside savory dishes like roast turkey or ham. A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch, and they’re perfect for family-style serving right from the baking dish.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Absolutely! You can prepare the candied sweet potatoes a day in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop them back in the oven to warm them up. If you freeze leftovers, they can last for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until heated through.
How do I fix common issues?
If your candied sweet potatoes come out dry, try adding a splash of orange juice or extra butter to the mix. For bland flavors, adjust the seasoning with more cinnamon or brown sugar. If they turn out soggy, ensure you’re not overcooking and let them bake long enough for the marshmallows to crisp up.
What variations can I try?
You can get creative with your candied sweet potatoes! Add a touch of vanilla extract for a deeper flavor, stir in some chopped apples or pears for added sweetness, or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. For a nutty touch, try mixing in some pecans or almonds for additional texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sweet potatoes?
Yes, any variety of sweet potato works well, but you may notice slight differences in sweetness and texture.
What’s the best way to peel sweet potatoes?
Using a vegetable peeler is the easiest method, but you can also cook the sweet potatoes briefly to make peeling easier.
Can I make this recipe without marshmallows?
Definitely! For a healthier twist, omit the marshmallows and top with chopped nuts instead for added crunch.
Candied Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and slice sweet potatoes into rounds.
- In a large bowl, mix sweet potatoes with melted butter or margarine, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Place the mixture in a baking dish and top with marshmallows.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the marshmallows are golden brown.