The Best Candied Sweet Potato Casserole for Your Holiday Table

When it comes to classic comfort food, candied sweet potato casserole tops the list. Naturally sweet and deliciously tender, sweet potatoes are elevated with a light glaze of maple syrup and warm spices, creating a dish that’s cozy yet mindful. Perfect for holiday gatherings or simply when you crave a bit of nostalgic sweetness, this lighter version delivers the beloved flavors without being overly heavy. It’s proof that a classic can be both indulgent and balanced.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Naturally Sweet: Sweet potatoes shine without too much added sugar.
Festive and Comforting: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners.
Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this a breeze.
Lighter Approach: Full of flavor while being mindful of calories and portions.

Ingredients

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 tbsp light butter or margarine
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp brown sugar substitute (or light brown sugar)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Cooking spray
• Optional toppings: chopped pecans, mini marshmallows (adjust as desired)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Boil the Sweet Potatoes

In a large pot, cover sweet potato chunks with water. Bring to a boil and cook until just tender, about 10–12 minutes. Drain well.

Prepare the Glaze

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the maple syrup, brown sugar substitute, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until combined.

Assemble the Casserole

Place the drained sweet potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the potatoes and gently toss to coat.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil, add any desired toppings like pecans or a sprinkle of mini marshmallows, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to thicken slightly.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 12g

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook: Boil the sweet potatoes until just tender—they’ll finish softening in the oven.
• Use Real Maple Syrup: The natural flavor is key for a rich, caramel-like glaze.
• Go Nutty: A sprinkle of chopped pecans adds crunch and richness.
• Crisp Finish: For a more caramelized top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes (watch closely!).

Why This Recipe Works

This candied sweet potato casserole focuses on bringing out the natural sweetness of the potatoes with a light but flavorful glaze. Using real maple syrup, warming spices, and a mindful amount of topping, it hits all the right comforting notes without overwhelming the dish with excess sugar or fat.

If you’re looking for a sweet potato casserole that’s every bit as festive and comforting as the original—without feeling overly heavy—this recipe is the perfect choice. It’s simple, naturally delicious, and sure to become a new favorite at your table.