To make it easier to take this traditional southern staple to a potluck, I updated it for the slow cooker. It’s hard to go wrong with candied sweet potatoes when it comes to pleasing a crowd!
—DEIRDRE COX KANSAS CITY, MO
PREP: 20 MIN. • COOK: 5 HOURS • MAKES: 12 SERVINGS
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup sugar
8 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch slices
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water
Minced fresh parsley, optional
1. In a small bowl, combine sugars. In a greased 5-qt. slow cooker, layer a third of the sweet potatoes; sprinkle with a third of the sugar mixture. Repeat layers twice. In a small bowl, combine the butter, vanilla and salt; drizzle over the potatoes. Cover and cook on low until the sweet potatoes are tender, 5-6 hours.
2. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the potatoes to a serving dish; keep warm. Pour the cooking juices into a small saucepan; bring to a boil. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and water until smooth; stir into the pan. Return to a boil, stirring constantly; cook and stir until thickened, 1-2 minutes. Spoon over the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle with minced parsley if desired.