Contents

Unforgettable Stovetop Candied Sweet Potatoes (The Ultimate No-Bake Southern Recipe)

Craving that classic, rich, and utterly delicious candied sweet potato flavor without the need to turn on your oven? You’ve landed in the perfect spot! This incredibly easy, no-bake stovetop version delivers all the comforting, soul-satisfying taste of traditional Southern candied yams, but with a foolproof shortcut that works every single time. Inspired by generations of family recipes, these sweet, buttery potatoes capture the essence of homemade goodness. Just like my great-grandmother, who crafted them with simply butter, sugar, and an abundance of love right on her stovetop, these tender, caramelized sweet potatoes are designed to bring a taste of cherished memories straight to your table. Prepare for a side dish that’s lusciously tender, beautifully caramelized, and bursting with the familiar flavors you grew up loving, all achieved with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

stovetop Southern soul food candied sweet potatoes yams in a Dutch oven with a wooden spoon

stovetop candied sweet potatoes recipe tips

Essential Ingredients for Stovetop Candied Sweet Potatoes

Crafting the perfect batch of stovetop candied sweet potatoes starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that coveted rich flavor and perfectly caramelized glaze.

Sweet Potatoes: The star of our dish! When choosing sweet potatoes, opt for firm, unblemished potatoes with smooth, unwrinkled skin. Avoid any with soft spots, cuts, or sprouts. Smaller to medium-sized sweet potatoes often have a naturally sweeter taste and creamier texture, which is ideal for this recipe. Larger potatoes can sometimes be starchier or stringier, so try to pick those that are uniformly sized for even cooking. For this recipe, about 2 pounds (roughly 2 large sweet potatoes) will yield a generous serving.
Unsalted Butter: This is absolutely non-negotiable for achieving that deep, glossy, caramel-like glaze. Butter provides a rich foundation of flavor and fat, which is essential for the caramelization process and for carrying the warmth of the spices throughout the dish. Using unsalted butter gives you full control over the salt content, allowing you to season to your preference.
Brown Sugar and White Granulated Sugar: The dynamic duo of sweetness! Brown sugar contributes a deeper, molasses-rich flavor and helps create that signature sticky, dark caramel coating, while white sugar ensures a brighter, cleaner sweetness and aids in crystalizing the glaze. The combination ensures a balanced and complex sweet profile that is characteristic of Southern candied sweet potatoes.
Warm Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves): These aromatic spices are the heart and soul of this comfort food. Ground cinnamon offers a warm, woody note; nutmeg provides a subtly sweet, earthy depth; and cloves add a potent, peppery warmth. Together, they create a harmonious blend that perfectly complements the sweetness of the potatoes and the richness of the butter and sugars, transforming the dish into an irresistible treat.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla extract elevates the overall flavor profile, adding a fragrant, sweet undertone that enhances the other ingredients. It rounds out the sweetness and adds a comforting aroma that makes the dish feel truly homemade.
Salt: Just a pinch of salt is crucial to balance the sweetness and intensify the flavors of the spices and sweet potatoes. It prevents the dish from tasting overly cloying and brings out the best in every bite.
Water: A small amount of water is used to help dissolve the sugars initially and create the base of the syrup. It also prevents the glaze from becoming too thick or burning during the simmering process, ensuring the sweet potatoes cook through evenly in their delicious coating.

cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, white sugar, brown sugar, butter, and vanilla in separate white bowls

sweet potatoes sliced into rounds in a glass bowl

Mastering Stovetop Candied Sweet Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making delicious stovetop candied sweet potatoes is simpler than you might think, especially with these detailed steps and pro tips. The key is to let the flavors meld and the potatoes slowly tenderize in their rich, buttery glaze. Here’s how to achieve that perfect, old-school Southern flavor:

Prepare Your Sweet Potatoes: Begin by thoroughly washing and peeling your sweet potatoes. Once peeled, slice them into thick rounds or uniform chunks, aiming for about ½ to 1 inch thick. Consistency in size is crucial here, as it ensures all your sweet potato pieces cook evenly and become perfectly tender at the same time. If some pieces are too thin, they might turn mushy, while thicker ones could remain firm.
Melt the Butter for the Glaze Base: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a Dutch oven (which is ideal for even heat distribution), melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely and start to gently bubble. This buttery foundation is where all the magic begins, forming the luscious base for your signature candied glaze.
Infuse with Sugars and Spices: Once the butter is melted, stir in the brown sugar, white granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, along with a pinch of salt. Mix continuously for about one to two minutes, allowing the sugars to start dissolving into the butter. The mixture should become glossy and fragrant. Be careful not to let it boil vigorously or burn; a gentle simmer is what you’re looking for to develop the rich caramel notes.
Coat the Sweet Potatoes: Carefully add your sliced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir them gently, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated in the warm, aromatic buttery sugar mixture. This initial coating is important for even flavor distribution and caramelization.
Simmer Low and Slow for Perfection: Reduce the heat to a low setting, then cover your skillet or Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid. Allow the sweet potatoes to simmer slowly, undisturbed, for approximately 35-45 minutes. During this time, the potatoes will tenderize, and the glaze will thicken and cling beautifully. Make sure to stir occasionally—every 10-15 minutes—to prevent sticking and ensure all potatoes are consistently bathed in the sweet glaze. If you notice the glaze becoming too thick or drying out before the potatoes are tender, add a small splash of water (about ¼ cup) to loosen it up. The goal is fork-tender potatoes without them falling apart.
Serve Warm and Enjoy: Once the sweet potatoes are tender, glossy, and caramelized, they are ready to serve. Spoon them onto a platter, making sure to include plenty of that irresistible buttery, spiced glaze. These candied sweet potatoes are best enjoyed warm, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and spice that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

collage of 4 photos with melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a Dutch oven

Stovetop Candied Sweet Potatoes (No-Bake Recipe)

By Brandi Crawford

If you’re looking for that rich, old-school candied sweet potato flavor without turning on the oven, this recipe is your answer. This no-bake version perfectly captures all the beloved Southern charm and deep flavors with a straightforward stovetop method. Inspired by my great-grandmother’s intuitive cooking – just butter, sugar, and love – these sweet, buttery potatoes are guaranteed to be tender, beautifully caramelized, and taste exactly like the comforting side dish I cherished growing up.

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Total Time:
1 hr 5 mins

Course:
Side Dish

Cuisine:
Soul Food, Southern

Servings:
5 servings

Calories:
209 kcal

Recommended Equipment

Cast Iron Dutch Oven (or a large, heavy-bottomed skillet)

Ingredients

2 pounds sweet potatoes (This typically equates to 2 large sweet potatoes. Washed, peeled, and sliced into ½-1 inch pieces.)
½ cup unsalted butter
½ cup brown sugar or sweetener
¾ cup white sugar or sweetener
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ cup water

Detailed Instructions

Heat a Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely.
Once the butter has melted, add the white sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Stir the mixture continuously to ensure the sugars dissolve fully into the butter. Be careful not to overcook the glaze at this stage, as it can burn easily if the heat is too high.
After the sugars have melted and the glaze begins to look glossy, stir in the vanilla extract. The glaze will thicken slightly upon adding the vanilla.
Pour in the water and continue to stir until the glaze begins to caramelize, developing a rich, slightly thicker consistency. This is a critical point to taste the glaze; feel free to add more sugar/sweetener or spices to adjust it to your preferred taste.
Carefully add the peeled and sliced sweet potatoes to the pot. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the sweet potato pieces are evenly and completely coated in the luscious glaze.
Reduce the heat significantly to low, then place a tight-fitting lid on the pot. This creates a steamy environment that helps tenderize the potatoes without drying out the glaze.
Simmer the sweet potatoes for 35-45 minutes, or until they are soft and tender when pierced with a fork or knife. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness and size of your sweet potato slices; thicker pieces will naturally require more time. The potatoes should offer little resistance and be easily pierced all the way through. Stir occasionally during this simmering process to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking and coating.
Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and stir the candied sweet potatoes one last time. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. The glaze will continue to thicken and become even more syrupy as it stands.

Helpful Recipe Notes

Sweetness Adjustment: If you are making candied sweet potatoes for the first time or are sensitive to sweetness levels, I recommend starting with half the amount of sugar specified. You can then taste the glaze after step 4 and incrementally add more sugar until it perfectly suits your palate. It’s easier to add sweetness than to take it away!
Spice Customization: This recipe provides a classic spice blend, but feel free to adjust it to your liking. You can omit any of the spices if they aren’t to your taste, or even add others like ginger or allspice for a different flavor profile.
Monitoring Cook Time: Keep a close eye on your sweet potatoes as they simmer. The cooking speed can vary significantly based on the type, size, and thickness of your potatoes, as well as the heat retention of your pot. Avoid overcooking, as this can cause the sweet potatoes to become mushy and fall apart, losing their desirable texture. Test for doneness regularly with a fork.
Thickening a Thin Sauce: If, after the sweet potatoes are fully cooked, you find the sauce is too thin or runny, you can easily thicken it. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ tablespoon of cornstarch with ½ tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the simmering sweet potato mixture. Continue to cook and stir for another minute or two until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Repeat with another ½ tablespoon of cornstarch slurry if needed.
Preventing Sticking: Using a heavy-bottomed pot and stirring occasionally are key to preventing the sweet potatoes and glaze from sticking and burning. If you notice any sticking, gently scrape the bottom of the pot.

Nutrition Information

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is typically calculated using online nutrition calculators. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for your specific recipe, it is recommended to calculate it using the actual ingredients and brands you use, with your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful for your dietary needs.

Serving: 1 serving

Calories: 209 kcal

Carbohydrates: 9g

Protein: 1g

Fat: 19g

Frequently Asked Questions & Pro Tips for Stovetop Candied Sweet Potatoes

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes for this recipe?

While I highly recommend peeling the sweet potatoes for the classic smooth, candied texture that absorbs the glaze beautifully, it’s not strictly mandatory. If you prefer a bit of extra fiber and a more rustic look, you can leave some of the skin on. Just be sure to scrub them very well before slicing.

How can I prevent the syrup from burning during cooking?

The key to a perfect, unburnt syrup is low and slow heat. Always keep your stovetop heat set to low to medium-low, ensuring the syrup bubbles gently rather than boiling vigorously. Stir the sweet potatoes occasionally to redistribute the glaze and prevent sugar from sticking to the bottom. If you notice the syrup getting too thick or appearing to dry out, a small splash of water or even a little vegetable broth can help loosen it up and prevent scorching. A heavy-bottomed pot also helps significantly in distributing heat evenly.

Can I make these candied sweet potatoes ahead of time, and how should I store them?

Absolutely! Stovetop candied sweet potatoes are an excellent make-ahead dish, perfect for holiday meals or busy weeknights. After cooking, allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer the cooled sweet potatoes and their glaze into an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They will store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making them even more delicious.

What’s the difference between sweet potatoes and yams? Are they interchangeable?

This is a common point of confusion! While “sweet potatoes” and “yams” are frequently used interchangeably, they are actually two distinct root vegetables. True yams (often imported and found in specialty markets) have a rougher, darker skin and a starchier, less sweet flesh than sweet potatoes. What most American grocery stores label as “yams” are actually a specific variety of sweet potato, typically with a reddish-brown skin and moist, orange flesh. For this recipe, what you find labeled as “sweet potatoes” (especially the orange-fleshed kind) in your local grocery store is exactly what you need.

How long do sweet potatoes typically take to cook on the stove?

The cooking time for stovetop candied sweet potatoes can vary, but generally, they will need to simmer for 35-45 minutes until tender. The exact duration largely depends on the thickness of your sweet potato slices and how soft you prefer them. Thicker cuts will naturally require more time to cook through and soften, so always use the fork-tender test to determine readiness rather than relying solely on the clock.

How can I tell when my candied sweet potatoes are perfectly done?

You’ll know your candied sweet potatoes have reached perfection when they are easily pierced with a fork, offering very little resistance, and are thoroughly coated in that gorgeous, glossy, caramelized glaze. The sauce should be thick, sticky, and lovingly cling to each piece, with some of the edges of the potatoes possibly showing just a hint of crispiness from the caramelization. And truly, your kitchen will be filled with such an amazing aroma, you won’t have to guess! If still in doubt, simply taste a piece – it should be soft, sweet, and bursting with buttery, spiced flavor.

How can I adjust the sweetness level of this dish?

Customizing the sweetness is simple. If you prefer a less sweet dish, begin by reducing the combined amount of brown and white sugar by one or two tablespoons. Taste the glaze after it has caramelized (before adding potatoes) and adjust by adding small amounts of sugar until it meets your desired level of sweetness. Conversely, if you enjoy a very sweet dish, feel free to add an extra tablespoon or two of sugar or your preferred sweetener during the glaze-making step until it perfectly suits your palate.

What type of pot is best for making stovetop candied sweet potatoes?

The best pot for this recipe is one that ensures even heat distribution and helps prevent burning, which is crucial for achieving that perfect caramelization. Here are some excellent options:

Dutch Oven: A cast-iron or enameled cast-iron Dutch oven is highly recommended. Its heavy construction retains heat exceptionally well and distributes it evenly, making it ideal for the slow simmering required to tenderize the sweet potatoes and develop a rich glaze without scorching.
Heavy-Bottomed Skillet or Stockpot: A large stainless steel skillet or stockpot with a thick, heavy bottom is another great choice. These pots heat evenly and offer good temperature control, which is important for managing the caramelization process.

The primary goal is to use cookware that can handle sustained low heat without developing hot spots, which could lead to uneven cooking or a burnt glaze.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover candied sweet potatoes?

To reheat leftover candied sweet potatoes and preserve their delicious texture and glaze, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the sweet potatoes to a baking dish, adding a tiny splash of water or butter if the glaze appears too thick. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until they are heated through and the glaze is bubbly again. You can also gently reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?

While fresh sweet potatoes are always recommended for the best texture and flavor in this recipe, you can use canned sweet potatoes as a shortcut if preferred. If opting for canned, be sure to drain them well and reduce the initial cooking time significantly, as they are already pre-cooked and tender. You’ll mainly be focusing on coating them in the glaze and warming them through. For a recipe specifically tailored for canned sweet potatoes, you might want to explore other recipes like my Canned Sweet Potatoes recipe.

Creative Variations & Substitutions for Candied Sweet Potatoes

While the classic stovetop candied sweet potato recipe is perfect as is, it also serves as a fantastic base for creative variations. Feel free to experiment with these additions to tailor the dish to your personal taste or to suit different occasions:

Nuts for Crunch and Flavor: Elevate the texture and add a nutty depth by incorporating chopped pecans, walnuts, or even sliced almonds. Toasting them lightly before adding can enhance their flavor significantly. For a unique twist, consider pumpkin seeds. Add them towards the end of cooking or sprinkle them on top just before serving.
Citrus Zest for Brightness: A touch of citrus can cut through the sweetness and add a wonderful freshness. Grate in the zest or squeeze in a tablespoon of fresh juice from an orange, lemon, or lime during the final stages of cooking for a vibrant aroma and flavor burst. Orange zest and candied sweet potatoes are a particularly harmonious pairing.
Herbs for an Unexpected Twist: For a savory-sweet profile, consider infusing the glaze with fresh or dried herbs. A sprig of fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage can add an intriguing earthy note that beautifully complements the sweetness of the potatoes. Remove fresh herbs before serving.
Diced Apples: For added fruitiness and a different texture, stir in some diced Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples along with the sweet potatoes. They will soften and meld with the glaze, offering a delightful tart contrast to the sweetness.
Dried Cranberries: Add a handful of dried cranberries during the last 10-15 minutes of simmering. They will plump up in the glaze, providing a lovely chewy texture and a tangy-sweet flavor that’s especially wonderful during the fall and winter months.
Marshmallows (Optional Topping): If you miss the marshmallow topping of oven-baked sweet potatoes, you can adapt it here. After the sweet potatoes are cooked, transfer them to an oven-safe dish, top with mini marshmallows, and broil for a few minutes until golden and toasted. This requires a quick oven step but offers that classic finish.
Spice Variations: Beyond the traditional cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, consider a pinch of ginger, allspice, or even a touch of cardamom for a more exotic flavor profile.

More Sweet Potato Recipes to Savor

If you’ve enjoyed these delicious stovetop candied sweet potatoes, you’ll be thrilled to explore more ways to incorporate this versatile and nutritious vegetable into your meals. Sweet potatoes offer a delightful balance of sweet and earthy flavors, making them perfect for a wide range of dishes, from comforting casseroles to light and crispy fries. Discover your next favorite sweet potato creation with these highly-rated recipes:

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet Potato Oatmeal
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes (Oven Baked Version)
Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Brown Sugar
Easy Air Fryer Loaded Baked Sweet Potatoes

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Candied Sweet Potatoes

Stovetop candied sweet potatoes are a wonderfully versatile side dish that complements a wide array of main courses, especially traditional Southern and soul food meals. Their sweet and savory profile makes them a comforting addition to almost any spread. Here are some fantastic dishes that pair beautifully with these delicious candied yams, creating a balanced and memorable meal:

Cajun Seafood Gumbo with Shrimp and Crab: The rich, spicy flavors of a seafood gumbo are wonderfully balanced by the sweet, tender potatoes.
Southern Cooked Cabbage: The slight bitterness and savory notes of perfectly cooked Southern cabbage provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the potatoes.
Baked Turkey Wings: Tender, flavorful baked turkey wings with their crispy skin make for a hearty and satisfying main course alongside these sweet potatoes.
Southern Soul Food Oxtail: The deep, savory, and rich flavors of slow-cooked oxtail are absolutely divine when paired with the sweet and buttery potatoes, making for a truly indulgent meal.
Southern Soul Food Baked Mac and Cheese: The creamy, cheesy goodness of a classic baked macaroni and cheese is a quintessential comfort food pairing that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.
Roast Chicken or Pork Loin: For a Sunday dinner feel, serve these sweet potatoes alongside a perfectly roasted chicken or a tender pork loin for a complete and delicious meal.
Glazed Ham: During holidays, candied sweet potatoes are a natural companion to a savory glazed ham, with both dishes sharing a delightful sweet and salty dynamic.