There’s something truly heartwarming about the rich aroma of Southern Candied Yams wafting through the kitchen, especially as family gathers around the table. This nostalgic dish, infused with the sweet warmth of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, transforms any meal into a celebration—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a grand holiday feast. I’ll never forget those moments when my grandmother would whip up a batch just in time for Thanksgiving, the golden, caramelized yams beckoning us to dig in.
This simple yet delightful recipe wraps perfectly tender yams in a luscious glaze, embodying the very essence of comfort food. With just a handful of ingredients and a straightforward method, you’ll find that these Candied Yams not only appeal to your taste buds but also bring comfort and joy to your gatherings. So, let’s dive into this classic Southern staple that’s bound to impress your guests and fill your home with warmth!
Why Are Candied Yams a Holiday Must-Have?
Comfort Food Al Tradition: Few dishes evoke warmth quite like hearty Candied Yams, making them a staple for family gatherings and holidays.
Irresistible Sweetness: The harmonious blend of brown sugar and spices creates an unforgettable flavor that dances on your palate.
Easy Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe simplifies your cooking process while maximizing flavor.
Nostalgic Experience: Each bite transports you back to cherished memories shared with loved ones around the table.
Crowd-Pleasing Delicacy: Whether you’re serving fried chicken or holiday ham, these yams are sure to delight everyone at the table.
Make sure to check out my tips for serving suggestions to elevate your meal!
Candied Yams Ingredients
• Discover the key ingredients for an irresistible family favorite!
For the Yams
- Yams/Sweet Potatoes – Provides the natural sweetness and creamy texture; substitute sweet potatoes if yams are unavailable.
- Water – Used to help steam and soften the yams during baking.
For the Glaze
- Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and a rich flavor; no direct substitute but can slightly reduce white sugar.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in creating a caramelized glaze; can use as a substitute for white sugar.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the dish’s flavor; use pure vanilla for the best results.
For the Spices
- Cinnamon – Adds warm, spicy notes that beautifully complement the sweetness; ground cinnamon works best.
- Ground Cloves – Introduces a bold flavor; omit if not preferred, as they can be overpowering.
- Nutmeg – Offers a warm, nutty flavor; freshly grated is preferred, but ground nutmeg will work too.
For the Richness
- Butter – Provides richness and helps meld flavors; margarine or dairy-free butter is a suitable substitute for a vegan option.
With these Candied Yams ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a dish that holds the power to elevate your holiday meals!
How to Make Candied Yams
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A warm oven ensures even baking and perfect caramelization for your yams.
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Slice the yams into even rounds, about ½ inch thick. A sharp knife will help you achieve uniform slices, ensuring they cook evenly and absorb the delicious glaze.
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Arrange the sliced yams in a large baking dish and add a splash of water at the bottom. This will help steam the yams during baking, preventing them from drying out.
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Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Allow it to bubble gently, releasing a lovely aroma that sets the stage for your sweet syrup.
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Stir in the brown sugar and granulated sugar until fully dissolved. This syrup will coat the yams, creating a caramel-like glaze as they bake.
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Mix in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, ground cloves, and nutmeg, stirring until well combined. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making you eager to dig into the dish!
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Pour the syrup mixture over the arranged yams, ensuring all slices are coated. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep in the moisture and flavor while baking.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, then remove the foil, stir the yams, and return to bake uncovered for an additional 40 minutes. Look for them to be tender and golden brown, with a luscious glaze.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of toasted pecans for added texture and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Candied Yams Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this recipe, enhancing the flavors and textures to your liking!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising twist that elevates the sweetness with a warm heat.
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Nutty Delight: Top your yams with chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for added crunch and a lovely nutty flavor.
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Coconut Twist: Substitute half the butter with coconut oil for a lighter touch and a hint of tropical flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Maple Syrup: Replace part of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup to add an earthy sweetness and unique flavor profile.
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate diced apples or pears into the yams for a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with the spices.
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Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the glaze for a refreshing, zesty brightness that cuts through the sweetness.
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Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter and swap regular sugar with coconut sugar to make this recipe vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary during baking for an unexpected herbal note that balances the sweetness.
Embrace these variations to make your Candied Yams even more delightful and personalized for your gatherings!
Make Ahead Options
These Candied Yams are perfect for meal prep and can save you plenty of time on busy holiday mornings! You can slice the yams and prepare the syrup up to 24 hours in advance; simply store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will keep the yams from browning and ensure the glaze stays fresh. When you’re ready to serve, just arrange the yams in a baking dish, pour the syrup over them, and bake as directed. In about 70 minutes, you’ll have delicious, caramelized Candied Yams that are just as delightful as if you made them fresh!
Expert Tips for Candied Yams
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Slice Evenly: Ensure that your yams are cut into uniform rounds to promote consistent cooking and prevent uneven texture.
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Monitor Sugar: Watch the sugar closely while melting to avoid burning, which can lead to a bitter taste in your candied yams.
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Cover During Baking: Keep the dish covered with foil for the first half of baking to allow the yams to steam and soften before caramelizing.
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Check for Tenderness: Use a fork to check if the yams are tender after baking; they should be soft but not mushy for the best flavor and texture.
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Spice Balance: Adjust spices according to your taste. If you’re unsure, start with less cloves and nutmeg; you can always add more to your candied yams as they cook.
What to Serve with Candied Yams?
These sweet, glazed delights are the perfect complement to any meal, bringing balance and joy to your dining table.
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Fried Chicken: The crispy, savory bites of fried chicken pair beautifully with the sweet yams, creating a delightful contrast of flavors. A Southern classic, this combination never disappoints.
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Honey-Glazed Ham: The sweetness of the ham enhances the rich flavors of the yams, making them taste even more decadent when enjoyed together. This pairing is perfect for holiday celebrations.
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Green Bean Casserole: The creamy and crunchy notes of green bean casserole create a textural balance with the soft, sugary yams. This side adds freshness to the meal and complements their sweetness.
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Cornbread: The slightly crumbly and savory cornbread is a traditional match for candied yams. This duo delivers a comforting Southern experience, perfect for family gatherings.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts cuts through the sweetness of the yams, providing a delightful contrast that brightens the plate.
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Sweet Iced Tea: A cool glass of sweet iced tea offers a refreshing balance to the sweet flavors in the yams, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, a slice of pumpkin pie echoes the warm spices found in the yams, making for a sweet and satisfying finish to your meal.
Embracing these delicious pairings will not only elevate your meal but also create memorable moments around the table.
Storage Tips for Candied Yams
Fridge: Store leftover candied yams in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their sweet flavor and soft texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the yams in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the yams gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out, ensuring the delicious glaze stays intact.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the yams and syrup the day before, then simply bake them fresh before serving for that warm comfort food experience.
Candied Yams Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right yams for candied yams?
Absolutely! When selecting yams, look for ones that are firm, unblemished, and free of dark spots or soft areas. A few minor scratches are okay, but avoid yams that have dark spots all over, as they may be overripe. Choosing sweet potatoes is also a delicious alternative if yams aren’t available.
How should I store leftover candied yams?
Very! Store any leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and maintains their sweet flavor. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat gently until warm, allowing the delicious syrup to come back to life.
Can I freeze candied yams, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can! To freeze candied yams, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the yams overnight in the refrigerator, and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to keep them moist.
What should I do if my candied yams are too mushy after baking?
If you find your candied yams have become too mushy, don’t worry! You can try baking them uncovered for a bit longer to help firm them up. A quick guide is to check at 10-minute intervals until they reach your desired tenderness. Using a knife to cut the yams after baking can also help you gauge their texture before serving.
Are candied yams suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you’re concerned about allergies, it’s important to note that the primary ingredients—yams, sugars, and spices—don’t typically pose significant allergy risks. However, if someone has a dairy allergy, simply substitute butter with margarine or dairy-free butter. Always check the labels of the sugar and other ingredients if allergies are a concern.
What can I do if I don’t have all the spices on hand?
No problem at all! If you’re missing certain spices, you can still make a delicious version of candied yams. For example, you can make it with just cinnamon and vanilla extract if you don’t have cloves or nutmeg. Adjust the taste to your liking and embrace creativity in your cooking!
Irresistible Candied Yams: A Sweet Family Tradition
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the yams into even rounds, about ½ inch thick.
- Arrange the sliced yams in a large baking dish and add a splash of water at the bottom.
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in the brown sugar and granulated sugar until fully dissolved.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, ground cloves, and nutmeg, stirring until well combined.
- Pour the syrup mixture over the arranged yams, ensuring all slices are coated. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, then remove the foil, stir the yams, and bake uncovered for an additional 40 minutes.