Sweet potato candy prepared as a Day of the Dead offering honors departed loved ones. This family tradition sweet is a naturally sweet, traditional confection of the ofrenda.
Wash and peel sweet potatoes, then cut them into thick rounds about 1 inch each for even cooking.
Place sweet potatoes and water in a medium saucepan; bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a steady simmer.
After 15 minutes, add brown sugar, cinnamon stick, and orange zest; stir gently to make sure sugar is dissolved.
Simmer uncovered over low heat for 45–50 minutes, occasionally basting sweet potatoes with syrup, until the liquid thickens and sweet potatoes are tender but hold their shape.
Remove the cinnamon stick, let the dulce cool in the syrup; serve either warm or chilled, spooning syrup over each portion for extra flavor.