Southern Sweet Potatoes
Bring the warmth of the holidays to your table with this delicious Southern Sweet Potatoes recipe, perfect for Thanksgiving. These tender sweet potatoes are coated in a rich syrup made with agave nectar, honey, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Baked to perfection and topped with optional pecans and marshmallows for that nostalgic holiday flair, this dish will add a touch of sweetness and comfort to your Thanksgiving feast. Whether served alongside turkey or as part of your holiday sides, this recipe is sure to be a family favorite.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
- 5 lbs. sweet potatoes, washed
- Water (enough to cover sweet potatoes)
- 1/2 cup salted butter
- 1 cup agave nectar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of ground nutmeg
- A pinch of ground cloves
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans and 1 cup marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Sweet Potatoes: In a large pot, cover the washed sweet potatoes with water and bring to a boil. Cook for 20-25 minutes, until fork-tender but not overcooked. Drain and run cold water over them to cool. Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into ¾”-1” thick slices.
- Mix Ingredients: In a saucepan, simmer melted butter, brown sugar, agave nectar, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the candied syrup mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Combine: Add the cooked sweet potato slices to the mixture and gently toss to coat them well.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, until heated through and the top is slightly caramelized.
- Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle pecans and marshmallows on top. Broil for 5-10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve this comforting dish that perfectly complements your Thanksgiving spread!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes