Easy Candied Yams Recipe

There’s nothing quite like digging into a plate of perfectly glazed Candied Yams, especially when the holiday season rolls around. With this Easy Candied Yams Recipe, you’ll learn how to transform a simple root vegetable into a rich, sweet delicacy that everyone will love. These yams are a timeless dish, combining tradition with tantalizing flavors that dance on your taste buds.

Growing up, I vividly remember the aroma of yams baking in my grandmother’s kitchen. She guarded her candied yams recipe as if it were a family heirloom, passing it down as treasure. Every year, I looked forward to her tweaking her secret blend of spices and watching how she poured her heart into every slice of yam she candied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy and requires only a handful of ingredients, making it perfect for busy chefs and beginners alike. The combination of butter, brown sugar, and spices gives these yams a deep, caramelized flavor that’s both sweet and savory. The rich glaze ensures that you’re getting a burst of flavor with every bite, while the soft texture makes them melt in your mouth.

Ingredients Notes

While this dish is simple, the key lies in the quality of ingredients. Choose firm, unblemished yams for the best texture and flavor. If yams aren’t available, sweet potatoes work wonderfully as a substitute. Brown sugar adds a nice depth, but if you prefer a less sweet option, you can use a mix of honey and maple syrup. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the warming, comforting flavors.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is preheating, peel the yams and cut them into evenly sized slices, about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 2

Arrange the yam slices in a single layer in a baking dish. Ensure they are evenly spread to cook uniformly.

Step 3

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and stir in brown sugar, mixing until smooth. Add a dash of cinnamon and a pinch of salt, and then pour the mixture over the yams.

Step 4

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the yams to soften and absorb the rich flavors of the glaze.

Step 5

Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the yams are tender and glazed. Stir occasionally to coat the yams evenly with the glaze.

Storage Options

Store any leftover yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. These yams also freeze well; place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them in the oven at 300°F until heated through.

Variations & Substitutions

To cater to different diets, try using coconut oil instead of butter or experiment with a mix of nutmeg and cloves for a spicier kick. For a healthier twist, reduce the sugar and add orange juice for a zesty sweetness. You could also add a sprinkle of toasted pecans for a delightful crunch.

Serving Suggestions

These candied yams are a versatile side dish, perfect for holiday dinners or as an accompaniment to roast meats. Serve them warm as part of a festive buffet, or alongside a fresh salad for a balance of flavors on a weeknight dinner table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Answer: Absolutely. Prepare the yams up to the point of baking, cover them, and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Question 2: What’s the difference between sweet potatoes and yams?
Answer: Although often used interchangeably, yams are starchier and drier, while sweet potatoes are sweeter and creamier. Both can be used in this recipe with slight variations in texture.

Question 3: Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
Answer: While white sugar can be used, brown sugar provides a richer, more caramel-like taste that’s integral to the glaze. For a closer substitute, try adding a spoonful of molasses to white sugar.

Easy Candied Yams Recipe

Delicious and easy candied yams perfect for any festive occasion.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour

Servings: 8

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 2.5 lbs yams peeled and cut into chunks
• ▢ 0.5 cup brown sugar
• ▢ 0.25 cup butter melted
• ▢ 1 tsp cinnamon
• ▢ 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ▢ 1 pinch salt

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the yams in a baking dish.
• In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt.
• Pour the mixture over the yams and toss to coat evenly.
• Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15 minutes until the yams are tender and caramelized.

Notes

Adjust sugar and spices to taste for extra flavor.