Candied Yams are more than just a dish; they are a holiday tradition that warms the heart and delights the palate. This easy Candied Yams Recipe features sweet potatoes that are perfectly tender and glazed to perfection, creating a delicious side dish that will steal the show at your Thanksgiving table. With rich, caramelized flavors and a delightful sweetness, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and family alike.
Why You’ll Love This Candied Yams
There are countless reasons to love this dish. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy holiday gatherings. Second, the combination of flavors—sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, and spices—creates an irresistible taste that complements savory dishes beautifully. Third, this recipe is vegetarian, allowing everyone at your table to enjoy it. Fourth, the vibrant color adds a festive touch to your meal, making it visually appealing. Additionally, homemade candied yams with marshmallows can elevate this dish even further, adding a layer of texture and sweetness. Lastly, this dish is a traditional Southern candied yams dish that pays homage to classic holiday flavors.
Ingredients for Candied Yams
Gather these items:
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Candied Yams Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the sliced sweet potatoes, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss to coat the yams evenly.
- Step 3: Spread the coated yams in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
- Step 4: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the yams are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
- Step 5: Serve the candied yams warm, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Candied Yams
Keep these in mind:
- Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and free from blemishes for the best texture.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of nutmeg.
- Always flip the yams halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
Best Ways to Serve Candied Yams
These yams can be served in various delightful ways. Pair them with a sweet potato casserole for a hearty meal, or enjoy them as a standalone side dish. They are also fantastic alongside roasted meats or grilled vegetables, making them a versatile addition to any holiday table.
How to Store and Reheat Candied Yams
To store, simply place any leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish and warm in the oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes at 350°F. This makes them a perfect option for meal prep during the busy holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions About Candied Yams
What’s the secret to perfect Candied Yams?
The secret to perfect candied yams lies in the balance of sweetness and spice. Ensure you coat the sweet potatoes thoroughly with the mixture of butter, brown sugar, and spices for a rich flavor. Baking them at the right temperature allows for caramelization, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Can I make Candied Yams ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare candied yams ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, then store the coated yams in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake them as directed, adjusting the time slightly if they are cold.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Candied Yams?
To avoid mistakes, ensure you cut the sweet potatoes into even-sized rounds for uniform cooking. Also, don’t skip the flipping step while baking, as this helps achieve that perfect caramelization without burning.
Variations of Candied Yams You Can Try
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations: add a handful of pecans or walnuts for crunch, incorporate orange juice for a citrus twist, or even use a sugared yams recipe that substitutes maple syrup for brown sugar for a different flavor profile. You can also try adding marshmallows on top for a classic touch!
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Candied Yams: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Holiday Classic
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, caramelized flavors of this easy Candied Yams Recipe. Perfectly sweet and tender, with a delightful glaze that will have your taste buds dancing. A classic holiday side dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced sweet potatoes, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss to coat the yams evenly.
- Spread the coated yams in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the yams are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
- Serve the candied yams warm, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Candied Yams
