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Brown Sugar Sweet Potatoes

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Tender, glossy, caramelized Brown Sugar Sweet Potatoes — the perfect beginner-friendly side dish for holidays or weeknight dinners.

  • Author: Nia Yarden
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds sweet potatoes (4 medium), peeled and cubed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (or coconut oil)
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or orange juice (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons water (as needed)
  • Toasted pecans (optional)
  • Marshmallows (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash, peel, and cut sweet potatoes into 1 to 1½-inch cubes.
  2. Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat.
  3. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla; stir until glossy.
  4. Add maple syrup or orange juice if using; season with a pinch of salt.
  5. If glaze is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons water to loosen.
  6. Place cubed sweet potatoes in a large bowl and pour glaze over.
  7. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
  8. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  9. Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking dish or sheet pan.
  10. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  11. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  12. Add pecans during the last 10 minutes or marshmallows during the final 2 minutes under the broiler.

Notes

For deeper caramelization, use a sheet pan instead of a deep baking dish. Salt enhances flavor balance and prevents excessive sweetness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.nytrecipe.com/brown-sugar-sweet-potatoes/