Candied Yams: A Sweet and Comforting Classic

There’s nothing quite like the rich, buttery aroma of candied yams wafting through the kitchen, signaling the start of a festive feast. This dish is a staple at holiday dinners, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas, but its comforting sweetness can brighten any meal throughout the year.

Candied yams are not just a side dish; they’re a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. With tender yams coated in a luscious glaze of brown sugar, butter, and warm spices, this recipe is a nostalgic favorite for many. Whether cooking for family or hosting a gathering, candied yams will surely steal the show.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples for a fuss-free dish.
2. Family Favorite: A nostalgic recipe that appeals to all ages.
3. Versatile: Works as a side dish or a dessert.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: This can be prepped in advance for convenience.
5. Rich and Indulgent: Perfect for special occasions or whenever you need comfort food.

Ingredients

• 4 large yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Optional: 1 cup mini marshmallows (for topping)

Ingredients and Substitutions

1. Yams or Sweet Potatoes

• What to Use: Yams are preferred for their firm texture, but sweet potatoes also work.
• Substitution: For a unique twist, try using butternut squash slices.

2. Brown Sugar

• What to Use: Adds depth and a caramel-like flavor.
• Substitution: Maple syrup or honey can be used for natural sweetness.

3. Butter

• What to Use: Unsalted butter provides richness.
• Substitution: Coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.

How to Make Candied Yams (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prep Work

Start by peeling and slicing the yams. Uniform slices ensure even cooking. To save time, preheat your oven.

Step 2: The Perfect Glaze

Whisking the glaze ingredients ensures they blend evenly, creating a smooth coating for the yams. Adjust spices to your taste for a personal touch.

Step 3: Baking for Perfection

Baking the yams covered initially helps them cook through. Uncovering them later allows the glaze to thicken and caramelize.

Expert Tips for Success

1. Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange the yams in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Check for Doneness: Pierce a slice with a fork; it should slide in easily when done.
3. Enhance the Glaze: An orange juice or bourbon splash can elevate the flavor.
4. Prevent Sticking: Grease the baking dish lightly to avoid sticking.

Variations and Customizations

1. Vegan Option

Use coconut oil instead of butter and maple syrup instead of sugar.

2. Nutty Crunch

Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added texture.

3. Spiced Up

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet-and-spicy kick.

4. Mini Casseroles

Portion the yams into ramekins for individual servings.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. If needed, add a splash of water to restore moisture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted turkey or glazed ham for a holiday spread.
• Serve alongside savory dishes like green beans or collard greens for balance.
• Top with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make candied yams ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Q: Are yams and sweet potatoes the same?

A: Not quite. Yams are starchier and less sweet, while sweet potatoes are softer and naturally sweeter. Both work well for this recipe.

Q: Can I freeze candied yams?

A: Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Related Recipes

1. Sweet Potato Casserole
   • A creamy, nutty dish that complements candied yams.
2. Roasted Butternut Squash
   • Another deliciously sweet and savory option.
3. Glazed Carrots
   • A colorful, sweet side dish to round out your meal.

Conclusion

Candied yams are the epitome of comfort food, combining tender texture with a buttery, caramelized glaze. This timeless recipe brings warmth to any table, whether celebrating the holidays or simply indulging in a hearty family dinner.

So, grab some yams, gather your ingredients, and treat your loved ones to this classic dish that never fails to impress. Let the sweet, spiced aroma fill your kitchen and create memories with every bite!

Candied Yams

Sweet & Perfect for the Holidays Deliciously Sweet Candied Yams for Your Next Family Gathering

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Occasions

Cuisine American

Servings 6 people

Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 4 large yams (sweet potatoes) peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1½ cups mini marshmallows (optional)
• ¼ tbsp ground ginger
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Prepare the Yams

  Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).Peel and slice the yams into ½-inch thick rounds for even cooking.
• Step 2: Make the Glaze

  In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and vanilla extract.
• Step 3: Assemble the Dish

  Arrange the yam slices in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the glaze evenly over the yams, ensuring each piece is well coated.
• Step 4: Bake the Yams

  Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.Remove the foil, gently stir the yams to redistribute the glaze, and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the glaze is bubbly.
• Step 5: Optional Marshmallow Topping

  If using marshmallows, sprinkle them over the yams during the last 5 minutes of baking and broil until golden brown.
• Step 6: Serve

  Let the yams cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to thicken.

Notes

• For a less sweet version, reduce the brown sugar to ¾ cup.
• To enhance the flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans on top before baking.

Keyword Candied Yams

Traditional Sourdough Discard