Sweet potatoes have always been a favorite for the holiday season. They’re a classic dish that can stand on their own, or they can be used as a side dish. One of the best ways to cook sweet potatoes to perfection is in an air fryer. Not only is it quicker than using an oven, but it’s also a healthier option. In this article, we’ll show you how to make candied sweet potatoes in an air fryer.
How to make candied sweet potatoes in an air fryer
Making candied sweet potatoes in an air fryer is much easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can whip up a flavorful batch in no time.
The first thing you need to do is pick out your sweet potatoes. Make sure they’re firm and not too large. Peel and slice them into rounds, approximately ½ inch thick. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F.
Next, melt butter in a small bowl in the microwave or on the stove. Once the butter is melted, add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Mix the ingredients well until the mixture is smooth.
Place the sliced sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket and spray them with cooking spray or brush them lightly with oil. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Take them out of the air fryer and drizzle them with the butter mixture. Return the sweet potatoes to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they’re caramelized and golden brown.
Once the sweet potatoes are done, you can serve them as a side dish or as a dessert. They’re perfect for Thanksgiving or any other special occasion. You can also experiment with different spices and flavors to create your own unique version of candied sweet potatoes. Some people like to add a little bit of orange juice or zest to the butter mixture, while others prefer to use maple syrup instead of brown sugar. Whatever you choose, be sure to enjoy the delicious results of your air fryer cooking!
Air fryer candied sweet potatoes recipe
If you want a more detailed recipe, here’s a step-by-step guide for making candied sweet potatoes in an air fryer:
Ingredients:
- 2-3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cooking spray or oil, for coating
Instructions:
- Peel and slice sweet potatoes into rounds, approximately ½ inch thick.
- Melt butter in a small bowl in the microwave or on the stove.
- Add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract to the melted butter. Mix well until smooth.
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F.
- Fill the air fryer basket with the sliced sweet potatoes. Coat with cooking spray or a light brushing of oil.
- Cook sweet potatoes for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
- Remove sweet potatoes from the air fryer and drizzle with the butter mixture. Ensure every slice is coated.
- Return the sweet potatoes to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until caramelized and golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Did you know that sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals? They are also low in calories, making them a healthy addition to any meal.
If you want to add a little extra flavor to this recipe, try sprinkling some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the sweet potatoes before cooking. The nuts will add a delicious crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.
The benefits of cooking sweet potatoes in an air fryer
There are many benefits to cooking sweet potatoes in an air fryer. Firstly, it saves time. With an air fryer, sweet potatoes cook in less time than they would in an oven. Secondly, it’s a healthier option. The air fryer uses less oil than other cooking methods, and it removes excess fat, making for a cleaner and healthier dish. Lastly, air fryers are versatile, and they allow you to cook a variety of dishes, making them an excellent investment for any home cook.
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, cooking sweet potatoes in an air fryer also enhances their natural sweetness and produces a crispy exterior. This is because the hot air circulating in the air fryer caramelizes the natural sugars in the sweet potatoes, resulting in a delicious and satisfying dish. Furthermore, air fryers are easy to clean and maintain, making them a convenient and practical kitchen appliance for busy individuals.
Tips for preparing perfect candied sweet potatoes in an air fryer
Here are some tips to help you prepare the perfect candied sweet potatoes in an air fryer:
- Use the right potatoes. Firm sweet potatoes that are not too large work best for this recipe.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This will ensure even cooking and caramelization.
- Make sure the sweet potatoes are coated in oil or cooking spray before placing them in the air fryer.
- Drizzle the sweet potatoes with cinnamon and sugar after they’ve cooked for added flavor.
- Reheat the sweet potatoes in the air fryer for a crispy exterior.
Another tip to keep in mind is to cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized pieces. This will ensure that they cook evenly and are all done at the same time.
Additionally, you can experiment with different spices and seasonings to add more flavor to your candied sweet potatoes. Some popular options include nutmeg, ginger, and allspice.
Candied sweet potatoes: A healthier alternative to traditional recipes
Candied sweet potatoes are a holiday staple, but traditional recipes can be high in sugar and calories. Thankfully, using an air fryer makes it possible to prepare a healthier version of this classic dish. With fewer calories and less sugar, air fryer candied sweet potatoes are a delicious and healthier alternative that you can enjoy without any guilt.
Not only are air fryer candied sweet potatoes healthier, but they are also easier to make. Traditional recipes require boiling the sweet potatoes before baking them in the oven with the candied topping. However, with an air fryer, you can skip the boiling step and simply toss the sweet potatoes with the candied mixture before air frying them to perfection.
Another benefit of using an air fryer for candied sweet potatoes is that they come out with a crispy texture that is hard to achieve with traditional recipes. The hot air circulating around the sweet potatoes in the air fryer creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender.
How to adjust cooking times and temperatures for different air fryers
Every air fryer is different, so it’s essential to know how to adjust cooking times and temperatures. If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook the sweet potatoes in smaller batches. If you have a larger air fryer, you may be able to cook them all at once. Additionally, higher wattage air fryers will cook quicker. It’s best to keep an eye on the sweet potatoes and adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
Another factor to consider when adjusting cooking times and temperatures for different air fryers is the type of food you are cooking. For example, if you are cooking frozen chicken wings, you may need to increase the cooking time and temperature compared to fresh chicken wings. It’s important to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended cooking times and temperatures for different types of food.
It’s also important to note that the altitude of your location can affect cooking times and temperatures. At higher altitudes, the air is thinner, which can cause food to cook faster and at a lower temperature. If you live at a high altitude, you may need to increase the cooking time and temperature to ensure your food is cooked properly.
Delicious variations on the classic candied sweet potato recipe
One of the great things about candied sweet potatoes is that there are many variations to the classic recipe. Here are a few variations:
- Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a little bit of heat.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for some crunch.
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a different flavor profile.
- Add a tablespoon of honey for a sweeter taste.
- Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a more natural sweetness.
Another variation to try is to add a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the recipe for a warm, cozy flavor. You can also experiment with different types of sweet potatoes, such as purple or white sweet potatoes, for a unique twist on the classic dish. Don't be afraid to get creative and try out different flavor combinations to find your perfect candied sweet potato recipe!
Perfect sides to serve with your air fryer candied sweet potatoes
Candied sweet potatoes go perfectly with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Mashed potatoes
- Green beans
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Cornbread
- Baked ham
- Turkey
How to store and reheat leftover candied sweet potatoes from your air fryer
If you have leftovers, store the candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, preheat the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Frequently asked questions about cooking candied sweet potatoes in an air fryer
Here are some frequently asked questions about cooking candied sweet potatoes in an air fryer:
Can I use other types of sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use other types of sweet potatoes. However, be aware that cooking times may vary depending on the type of potato.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still make candied sweet potatoes in an oven. Simply follow the same steps and bake in the oven at 375°F for 30-35 minutes or until tender.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Store the candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer before serving.
Are air fryers difficult to clean?
No, air fryers are easy to clean. Simply remove the air fryer basket and wash it with soap and water. The air fryer should not be submerged in water.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can make this dish vegan by using a vegan butter substitute instead of regular butter.
In conclusion, candied sweet potatoes cooked in an air fryer are a delicious and healthier alternative to the traditional recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and tips, you can create a flavorful, caramelized dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
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