Candied yams are a sweet and cozy side dish that can brighten up any meal. Made with tender yams baked in a rich mix of brown sugar and butter, they are simply delightful!
These yams are like little bites of happiness on your plate. I love to add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth. Perfect for family dinners or holidays, they always bring smiles! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yams or Sweet Potatoes: Yams are traditional, but sweet potatoes work beautifully too. If you can’t find yams, choose orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for a similar texture and flavor.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a lovely caramel flavor. If you’re out, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses as a substitute. For a healthier option, try maple syrup or honey!
Butter: While unsalted butter is great for controlling saltiness, you can use margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Both work well in this recipe!
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices give warmth and depth. If you’re not a fan, try using allspice or pumpkin pie spice for a different twist!
How Do I Make Sure My Yams Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the yams to just the right tenderness is key! First, boil them until they’re barely tender—this prevents them from becoming mushy while baking.
- Use a knife to check; it should go in with slight resistance, not easily.
- After boiling, drain well to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the sauce.
- When baking, toss yams with the sugar mix gently to ensure even coating without breaking them.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked, sweet, and flavorful candied yams every time!
Candied Yams
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 40 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll spend roughly 55 minutes making these delicious candied yams from start to finish! Perfect for family gatherings or any cozy dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yams:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are. Next, take a large saucepan and fill it with water. Add the yam chunks and bring the water to a boil. Let the yams cook until they are just tender, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once they’re ready, drain the yams well and set them aside.
2. Make the Sweet Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, unsalted butter, water, cinnamon, nutmeg (if you’re using it), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth. This sweet sauce is what will make your yams extra delicious!
3. Assemble in Baking Dish:
Now, take a baking dish and place the cooked yams inside. Pour the sweet brown sugar mixture evenly over the yams. Make sure to toss them gently so that they are nicely coated with the sauce. This will help them become caramelized while baking!
4. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 30-40 minutes. It’s a good idea to take a spoon and scoop some of the syrup over the yams every 10-15 minutes. You want them to get beautifully tender and covered in a rich, sticky glaze.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your candied yams are done baking, take them out and let them cool for a moment. Serve them warm as a sweet and comforting side dish. They’re perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home!
Enjoy your delicious, caramelized candied yams!
Can I Use Canned Yams for This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use canned yams. Just drain them well and skip the boiling step. Reduce the baking time to about 20 minutes, just enough to heat them through and coat them in the syrup.
Can I Make Candied Yams Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the yams and the sweet sauce the day before, store them separately in the fridge, and then bake them just before serving. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time to heat them through.
What Can I Use Instead of Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of white sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon of molasses for a similar flavor. Alternatively, maple syrup or honey can also be used for a different sweetness profile.
How Do I Store Leftover Candied Yams?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave until heated through. You can also add a splash of water or extra syrup to keep them moist while reheating.
