Get ready to elevate your dinner table with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious! Our Slow Cooker Candied Sweet Potatoes are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Imagine tender, caramelized sweet potatoes bathed in a rich glaze of brown sugar and warm spices, all effortlessly prepared in your slow cooker. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Dive into our simple step-by-step guide and discover how to create this mouthwatering side dish that will leave your guests raving!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then slice them into approximately 1/4-inch thick rounds to ensure even cooking and consistent caramelization.
- Grease the interior of your slow cooker with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Layer the sweet potato slices evenly in the slow cooker, creating overlapping layers to maximize coverage and flavor distribution.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth, well-integrated glaze.
- Pour the butter and sugar mixture evenly over the layered sweet potato slices, ensuring each slice gets coated with the sweet mixture.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 4 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the sweet potatoes to become tender and absorb the caramelized sugar mixture.
- About 30 minutes before cooking is complete, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top if desired, allowing them to toast slightly and add a crunchy texture.
- Check the sweet potatoes for tenderness by piercing with a fork. They should be soft but not mushy.
- Once done, turn off the slow cooker and let the candied sweet potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve warm as a delicious side dish, garnishing with additional pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for large, firm sweet potatoes for the best texture and flavor. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes.
- Slice Evenly: For consistent cooking, make sure your sweet potato slices are about 1/4-inch thick. This will help them cook evenly and caramelize beautifully.
- Layer Wisely: When layering the sweet potatoes in the slow cooker, try to overlap them slightly. This ensures that every slice gets a taste of the delicious glaze.
- Mix Thoroughly: When combining the butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, whisk until smooth. This ensures every bite is perfectly sweet and spiced.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking on low for 4 hours is ideal, but every slow cooker is different. Check for tenderness with a fork about 30 minutes before the cooking time ends.
- Add Texture with Pecans: If you love a bit of crunch, add chopped pecans about 30 minutes before serving. They will toast nicely and complement the soft sweet potatoes perfectly.
- Let it Rest: Allow the candied sweet potatoes to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This resting time helps the sauce thicken, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
- Garnish for Presentation: Serve warm and consider garnishing with extra pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an appealing finish that’s sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 40mg
