A Sweet Potato Recipe That Will Take You Back: Caramelized in Butter & Brown Sugar

Photo byAngie Bright

There’s something special about waking up to the smell of sweet potatoes caramelizing in butter and brown sugar. For many, this is more than just a delicious dish; it’s a memory of cozy mornings and family gatherings. Whether served alongside a hearty breakfast of smoked sausage, eggs, and toast, or as a comforting side dish, caramelized sweet potatoes capture the essence of home cooking at its finest.

A Dish with Heart and Flavor

Caramelized sweet potatoes are a classic that combines the natural sweetness of this vibrant root vegetable with the rich flavors of butter and brown sugar. When cooked properly, the potatoes take on a golden glaze, with a soft, tender interior that practically melts in your mouth. A sprinkle of cinnamon adds a warm, fragrant note, making it the perfect dish for chilly mornings or festive family meals.

It’s hard not to feel nostalgic while making this dish. Many people recall the special times when their mothers or grandmothers would fry up these potatoes as part of a weekend breakfast or holiday spread. The combination of flavors is simple yet incredibly satisfying, transforming everyday ingredients into something magical.

Recipe: Caramelized Sweet Potatoes in Butter & Brown Sugar

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup canola oil
• 1/2 cup butter
• 3 sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar (or more, depending on preference)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions:

1. Begin by heating the canola oil and butter in a large frying pan or skillet. Allow the mixture to heat thoroughly before adding any sweet potatoes.
2. Add the sliced sweet potatoes in batches to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook the slices over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.
3. Once both sides of the sweet potatoes have started to soften, sprinkle a layer of dark brown sugar and a dash of cinnamon on the top side of each slice. Allow them to cook for another minute before flipping and repeating the sugar and cinnamon process.
4. As the sugar heats, it will begin to caramelize, creating a sticky, sweet glaze that clings to the sweet potatoes. Stir the potatoes gently to ensure all sides are coated evenly, but be careful not to let them burn.
5. Continue cooking the sweet potatoes for an additional 2-3 minutes, turning as necessary, until they reach your desired tenderness. Serve hot, and enjoy this sweet, buttery treat with your favorite breakfast items like smoked sausage, eggs, and toast.

The Perfect Pairing

What makes these caramelized sweet potatoes stand out is their versatility. While they shine as a breakfast dish, they also make a great side for savory meals. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes is perfectly balanced by the rich butter and the hint of cinnamon, creating a harmony of flavors that can complement both sweet and savory meals.

Whether you’re making these for breakfast or as part of a larger meal, caramelized sweet potatoes are sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. The combination of butter and brown sugar makes them feel indulgent, while the simplicity of the ingredients keeps the dish approachable and easy to make.

Cooking this dish isn’t just about preparing food—it’s about creating memories, just like the ones so many of us hold dear. Whether for a special family breakfast or a weeknight treat, caramelized sweet potatoes are a wonderful way to share love through food.

For your Caramelized Sweet Potatoes in Butter & Brown Sugar recipe, a few sources can offer tips to enhance this dish.

You can adjust the sweetness or spice level by adding a splash of orange juice or substituting cinnamon with pumpkin spice, which would give a seasonal twist​Powell Family Cooking. Another helpful tip is using plant-based butter to make it vegan​Powell Family Cooking. Additionally, you could sprinkle pecans or walnuts on top for a bit of texture​Better Butter.

If you prefer a baked version, some recipes suggest roasting the sweet potatoes in the oven at 400°F after brushing them with the butter-sugar mixture. This method ensures even caramelization without constantly flipping the slices​Better Butter.