Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Save this recipe on:

When it comes to soul-warming side dishes, Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are hard to beat. These sweet, tender slices of sweet potato are simmered in a rich, buttery brown sugar syrup until they’re glazed to perfection. The cinnamon and nutmeg infuse every bite with warmth, while a hint of vanilla brings it all together in that classic Southern comfort way.

Perfect for Sunday dinners, Thanksgiving tables, or any gathering that calls for a little southern charm, these candied yams (as they’re often called) will have your guests going back for seconds and thirds. They pair beautifully with savory dishes like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or fried chicken, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

This recipe is simple and packed with nostalgic flavor. It uses pantry staples, requires no baking, and gives you full control over the syrupy glaze. The stovetop method makes it a great option when your oven is already packed with other holiday favorites. Plus, it takes just a handful of ingredients to create that signature Southern taste that instantly transports you home.

Can I Use Canned Yams Instead of Fresh Sweet Potatoes?

You could use canned yams in a pinch, but fresh sweet potatoes are the way to go for the best texture and flavor. Canned yams tend to be much softer and may fall apart during cooking, especially if simmered in syrup. Fresh sweet potatoes hold their shape and soak in the brown sugar and butter mixture in the most delightful way. If you want that melt-in-your-mouth experience with a little bite left in each slice, stick with fresh.

Ingredients for the Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes shine with simple, classic ingredients that come together to create magic on the stovetop. Each component plays a key role in building the signature sweet, spiced glaze that clings to every slice. Here’s what you need:

• Sweet potatoes
• Butter
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

The sweet potatoes are the star of the show, providing that naturally creamy and sweet base. Butter adds richness and depth, while brown sugar brings that deep molasses flavor that caramelizes beautifully. A touch of granulated sugar helps balance out the syrup. Cinnamon and nutmeg offer that warm, spiced profile, and vanilla gives the dish its final aromatic note. A pinch of salt brings all the sweet elements into harmony.

How To Make the Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Peel and Slice the Sweet Potatoes

Peel about 4 large sweet potatoes and slice them into thick, even rounds. Aim for slices that are around ¼ to ½ inch thick for the perfect texture.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Start the Syrup

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt a stick of butter. Once melted, stir in 1 cup of brown sugar and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Let it combine into a rich syrup.

Step 3: Add the Spices and Vanilla

Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. The syrup should smell like fall wrapped in a warm blanket.

Step 4: Add the Sweet Potatoes

Place the sliced sweet potatoes in the skillet, arranging them evenly. Gently spoon the syrup over them to make sure each piece is coated.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Cover the skillet and let everything simmer on low for about 45 minutes. Occasionally baste the potatoes with the syrup as it thickens. The sweet potatoes should be fork-tender and the syrup rich and glossy by the end.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once done, gently lift the candied sweet potatoes onto a serving platter and drizzle with extra syrup from the pan. They’re best served warm and fresh, but they reheat beautifully too.

Serving and Storing Your Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes make a hearty side dish that feeds around 6 to 8 people generously. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday dinner or Sunday family meal, they bring warmth and a touch of sweetness to the table that few can resist.

These potatoes can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen up the syrup. You can also freeze them, though the texture may soften slightly when thawed. If you choose to freeze, let them cool completely and place in a freezer-safe container for up to one month.

What to Serve With Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes?

Fried Chicken

The crispiness of fried chicken paired with the sweet, buttery glaze of candied yams is a true Southern comfort food combination.

Glazed Ham

These potatoes complement the smoky and salty flavor of a baked ham glazed in honey or brown sugar.

Roast Turkey

Perfect on a Thanksgiving plate, the soft texture of sweet potatoes goes hand-in-hand with slices of juicy roast turkey and gravy.

Collard Greens

For a well-rounded Southern meal, collard greens provide that savory, slightly bitter balance to the sweetness of the potatoes.

Macaroni and Cheese

The creamy, cheesy richness of baked mac and cheese makes a perfect partner to candied sweet potatoes.

Cornbread

Soft and buttery cornbread or even a slice of skillet-baked cornbread makes for a classic pairing.

Pork Chops

Whether grilled or pan-fried, pork chops soak up the sweet glaze when served on the same plate.

Baked Beans

A spoonful of baked beans alongside these sweet potatoes creates a comforting and hearty plate that’s full of flavor.

Want More Southern Side Dish Ideas?

If Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are your kind of dish, then you’ll definitely want to try these other hearty and comforting sides:

• Loaded Scalloped Potatoes for a cheesy twist on a classic.
• Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake if you’re craving crispy edges with creamy centers.
• Cornish Beef Pasties to bring a flaky, savory pie to the plate.
• Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf for something fluffy and perfectly golden.
• Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler when you want a sweet dessert finish to your Southern feast.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re planning your next holiday meal or family gathering.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go classic or add your own twist? Maybe a splash of bourbon or a dash of ginger?

I love hearing how others bring these dishes to life in their own kitchens. If you have any questions or tips to share, don’t be shy—let’s inspire each other!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more cozy comfort recipes on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Print

Save this recipe on: