Irresistible Candied Sweet Potato Holiday Glaze You’ll Love

There’s nothing quite like the cheerful chaos of the holidays, with the aroma of spices and freshly baked treats wafting through the air. I first discovered the delightful charm of candied sweet potatoes with maple glaze during a festive family dinner, where the vibrant colors and sweet scents made everyone gather around the table with anticipation. These potatoes don’t just look beautiful; they offer a symphony of flavors that beautifully complements any holiday spread.

Imagine perfectly roasted sweet potatoes, their edges caramelized to a golden crisp and then drenched in a rich, glossy maple glaze. This dish captures the heart of seasonal celebrations, providing a comforting blend of sweet and savory that transcends ordinary sides. Even better? It’s an effortless addition to your table, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser—perfect for those looking to turn over a new leaf from fast food to homemade comfort. Join me in creating this indulgent side dish that promises to become a cherished tradition in your own kitchen!

Why Make Irresistible Candied Sweet Potato Holiday Glaze?

Simplicity makes this dish a breeze to prepare, ideal for busy holiday cooks.
Sweet and Savory Flavors collide beautifully with the rich maple glaze, bringing warmth to any meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal ensures guests will rave about this treat at your gatherings.
Versatile Variations let you experiment—try adding pecans or a hint of cinnamon for an extra twist!
Serve alongside roasted dishes or a fresh green salad for balance, and make it even easier by preparing ahead! You can even pair it with Honey Roasted Sweet for an unforgettable feast!

Irresistible Candied Sweet Potato Holiday Glaze Ingredients

• Create this delightful dish effortlessly with the right ingredients!

For the Sweet Potatoes

• Sweet Potatoes – A must-have for natural sweetness; peel and slice into ¾ inch rounds for the best texture.
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for roasting; helps achieve a delicious golden-brown exterior that enhances the overall flavor.

For the Maple Glaze

• Maple Syrup – This key ingredient provides sweetness and a rich flavor; honey can be used as an alternative if desired.
• Water – Necessary for achieving the perfect glaze consistency; ensure not to skimp on this!
• Unsalted Butter – Adds a creamy richness to the glaze, elevating the taste of your irresistible candied sweet potato holiday glaze.
• Cornstarch – Works as a thickener to give the glaze its glossy texture; don’t leave this out for that perfect finish.

For Seasoning

• Salt – Enhances the sweet and savory flavors of the dish, balancing the overall taste.
• Pepper – Adds a touch of warmth to the dish, contributing to its complexity.

These ingredients come together to create a stunning side dish that is bound to be a hit at your next holiday gathering!

How to Make Irresistible Candied Sweet Potato Holiday Glaze

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C), a perfect temperature for roasting. This will help achieve that crispy exterior and tender interior.

2. Toss the Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine your sliced sweet potatoes with vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Toss them gently until they’re evenly coated, ensuring delightful flavor in every bite.

3. Roast the Potatoes: Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast them for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until their edges are golden brown and caramelized.

4. Prepare the Maple Glaze: In a saucepan, combine maple syrup, water, butter, and cornstarch. Whisk them over medium heat until the mixture thickens and becomes shiny, being careful not to let it boil over.

5. Layer and Glaze: Once the sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection, layer them in a baking dish with the browned sides facing up. Pour the shiny maple glaze over them, ensuring they’re well-coated.

6. Final Bake: Place the glazed sweet potatoes back in the oven to bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and sticky, creating that irresistible coat we all love.

7. Cool Before Serving: Let the candied sweet potatoes sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring every mouthful is rich and delightful.

Optional: Sprinkle with chopped pecans for added crunch and flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Irresistible Candied Sweet Potato Holiday Glaze Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful sweet potatoes and make them your family’s new favorite!

• Citrus Twist: Replace half of the maple syrup with fresh orange juice for a refreshing burst of flavor.

• Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped pecans before the final bake for an irresistible crunchy texture.

• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, aromatic kick that dance on the palate.

• Maple Alternative: Switch maple syrup for agave nectar or honey if you prefer a different sweetener while maintaining that irresistible sweetness.

• Ginger Kick: Incorporate minced fresh ginger into the glaze to add a zesty warmth that mingles beautifully with the sweet potatoes.

• Sweet Potato Medley: Mix in cubed butternut squash for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful color contrast—perfect for the holidays.

• Roasted Garlic: Toss in some roasted garlic cloves with the sweet potatoes for a savory twist that will surprise your guests.

• Spicy Touch: Sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper over the sweet potatoes before baking for a delightful heat that balances the sweetness perfectly.

How to Store and Freeze Irresistible Candied Sweet Potato Holiday Glaze

Room Temperature: Allow the candied sweet potatoes to cool completely before covering them. They can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before needing refrigeration.

Fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven for the best texture.

Freezer: To freeze, let the glazed sweet potatoes cool, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a sealed freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the glaze is bubbly—perfect for reviving that irresistible candied sweet potato holiday glaze!

What to Serve with Irresistible Candied Sweet Potato Holiday Glaze?

Create a well-rounded and memorable meal with delightful accompaniments that enhance every bite.

• Roast Chicken: The savory flavors of roast chicken contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the glaze, bringing balance to your plate.

• Fresh Green Salad: Crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette provide a refreshing counterpoint, making each mouthful of sweet potatoes feel lighter.

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth and buttery texture of mashed potatoes complements the sticky sweetness of the candied sweet potatoes perfectly.

• Grilled Sausages: The smoky and spiced flavors of sausages pair well, adding an exciting, savory element that enhances the overall dish.

• Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their sweetness mirrors the triumph of candied sweet potatoes, creating a wonderful harmony of flavors on your table.

• Sparkling Apple Cider: This bubbly drink offers a refreshing and festive touch, heightening the cheerful vibe of any holiday gathering.

This variety of pairings ensures that your holiday table shines with flavor, making it a feast to remember!

Make Ahead Options

These Irresistible Candied Sweet Potatoes with Maple Glaze are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy holiday days. You can roast the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, letting them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their glorious texture, ensure they are not overcrowded on the baking sheet during roasting. When you’re ready to serve, simply rewarm the roasted sweet potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, then drizzle with the prepared maple glaze and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly. This way, you’ll enjoy all the delightful flavors with minimal effort!

Tips for the Best Irresistible Candied Sweet Potato Holiday Glaze

• Perfect Roasting: Ensure sweet potatoes are in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than that lovely caramelization.

• Consistent Glaze: Whisk the glaze continuously while heating. This prevents it from boiling over and ensures a smooth, glossy finish for your holiday glaze.

• Thickness Check: If the glaze is too thin after cooking, let it simmer a bit longer. Aim for a thick, silky texture that clings beautifully to each potato.

• Serving Temperature: Allow the candied sweet potatoes to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavor and glaze, making each bite a delight.

• Celebration Pairing: This irresistible candied sweet potato holiday glaze pairs well with savory meats and fresh salads, creating a balanced meal that delights every palate.

Irresistible Candied Sweet Potatoes with Maple Glaze Recipe FAQs

What type of sweet potatoes are best for this recipe?
I recommend using firm, fresh sweet potatoes. Look for those that are smooth-surfaced, without dark spots or bruises. Varieties like Beauregard or Jewel work wonderfully due to their natural sweetness.

How should I store leftovers of the candied sweet potatoes?
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, drizzling a bit of water to maintain moisture if necessary.

Can I freeze the candied sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the candied sweet potatoes to cool completely. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Transfer them to a sealed freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. For reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

What if my glaze is too thin?
If your glaze ends up too thin, don’t worry! Simply return it to medium heat and allow it to simmer while whisking until it thickens to your desired consistency. Usually, this takes just a few minutes. You want a glossy finish that clings beautifully to the potatoes.

Are these candied sweet potatoes safe for my gluten-free diet?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check the ingredients, particularly the maple syrup and cornstarch, to ensure they haven’t been processed with gluten-containing foods, ensuring your holiday feast remains worry-free.