Candied Yams are a delightful side dish that can turn any meal into a comforting feast. This classic recipe brings the rich sweetness of sweet potatoes together with a luscious caramelized glaze, making it a favorite for gatherings and holidays. Whether you’re serving it alongside a roast or at a Thanksgiving feast, the warm, sugary yams are sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Candied Yams

There are countless reasons to love these candied yams. First, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for busy weeknights or holiday dinners. Their sweet, buttery flavor melds beautifully with a hint of spices, creating a dish that’s both comforting and inviting. The use of brown sugar and butter ensures a rich, sugary glaze that coats each slice, elevating them to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Not to mention, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences; for instance, you could make vegan candied yams by substituting the butter with coconut oil. Furthermore, they pair wonderfully with savory dishes, proving to be a versatile addition to any meal. Try these for an easy side dish that will impress your guests!

Savory Candied Yams to Delight Every Meal - Candied Yams - main visual representation

Ingredients for Candied Yams

Gather these items:

3 pounds sweet potatoes
0.5 cup unsalted butter
0.75 cup packed light brown sugar
0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
0.5 teaspoon grated nutmeg

How to Make Candied Yams Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly butter a 9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish.
Step 2: Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into ½-inch-thick rounds. Arrange the slices evenly in the greased baking dish.
Step 3: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it’s hot and bubbly. Remove it from the heat.
Step 4: Combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg into the melted butter. Mix until fully combined and pour over the sweet potatoes.
Step 5: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Step 6: Remove the foil and stir the yams gently for even baking. Continue baking uncovered for an additional 20 to 30 minutes.
Step 7: Serve warm and enjoy the true comfort of homemade food!

Pro Tips for the Best Candied Yams

Keep these in mind:

You can substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Experiment with pumpkin spice for a different flavor.
For a crunchy texture, top with pecans before baking.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar.

Best Ways to Serve Candied Yams

These sweet and sticky candied yams are perfect served alongside roasted meats, such as turkey or ham, and they also complement dishes like sweet potato casserole. For a festive touch, consider garnishing them with mini marshmallows or a sprinkle of toasted pecans, adding a delightful contrast to the sweet flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Candied Yams

To store leftover candied yams, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a baking dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which is about 15-20 minutes. This dish is also perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the sweet goodness throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Candied Yams

What’s the secret to perfect Candied Yams?

The secret lies in the balance of sweetness and spice. Using fresh spices like nutmeg can elevate the flavor, and ensuring that the sweet potatoes are sliced evenly helps in achieving consistent cooking and caramelization.

Can I make Candied Yams ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the candied yams a day in advance. Just assemble them and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake them until heated through for a delightful side dish.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Candied Yams?

To avoid mushy yams, ensure you slice them evenly and don’t overbake them. Stirring them halfway through baking helps achieve a caramelized exterior while keeping them tender inside.

Variations of Candied Yams You Can Try

There are many delicious variations of candied yams to explore. For a unique twist, consider trying honey-glazed sweet potatoes or maple syrup yams for a different flavor profile. Another option is to create a creamy candied yams variation by adding a layer of marshmallows on top during the last few minutes of baking, resulting in a delightful contrast of textures.