Caramelized sweet potatoes are a timeless comfort dish, often associated with festive gatherings and family meals. Their glossy, amber glaze and tender texture make them a centerpiece of warmth and indulgence. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with a rich caramel coating, creating a balance of soft interiors and slightly crisp, charred edges. This dish is not only visually appealing but also deeply satisfying, offering a nostalgic flavor that feels both homely and celebratory. Cooking them in a tray allows the glaze to envelop each slice, ensuring every bite is infused with sweetness and depth. Whether served alongside roasted meats, enjoyed as part of a holiday spread, or savored on their own, caramelized sweet potatoes embody the essence of comfort food.
INGREDIENTS
- 4 large sweet potatoes (peeled and sliced into thick rounds)
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Foil tray or baking dish
INSTRUCTION
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Wash, peel, and slice the sweet potatoes into thick, even rounds. This ensures uniform cooking and a consistent texture.
- Arrange the slices neatly in a foil tray or baking dish, slightly overlapping them for a layered effect.
- Make the Caramel Glaze
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to bubble.
- Add brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens into a glossy caramel sauce.
- Coat the Potatoes
- Pour the caramel glaze evenly over the sweet potato slices, ensuring each piece is well coated. Use a spoon to spread the glaze if necessary.
- Bake the Dish
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cover the tray loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften while absorbing the glaze.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes, or until the edges of the potatoes are slightly charred and the glaze has thickened into a sticky coating.
- Final Touch
- Once baked, allow the tray to cool slightly before serving. The glaze will continue to set as it cools, giving the potatoes a luscious, caramelized finish.
SERVINGS
This recipe yields approximately 6–8 servings, depending on portion size. It is ideal for family dinners, festive occasions, or as a sweet side dish to complement savory mains.
NOTE
- For a deeper flavor, consider roasting the sweet potatoes uncovered for a few extra minutes at the end to enhance caramelization.
- The balance of butter, sugar, and honey creates a rich glaze, but you can adjust sweetness to taste.
- Allowing the dish to rest before serving ensures the glaze thickens properly and clings to each slice.
- This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of the potatoes while elevating them with warm spices, making it both comforting and celebratory.
- The dish is versatile: it can be served warm as a side, or cooled slightly and enjoyed as a dessert-like treat.