The Best Homemade Candied Yams Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This candied yams recipe brings a touch of sweetness to your table, perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family meals. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite. You’ll love the soft, caramelized yams soaked in a rich, buttery syrup. The warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat!
Recipe
Sweet, tender, and perfectly spiced, candied yams are a classic side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This simple recipe transforms fresh yams into a caramelized, buttery treat that’s sure to become a holiday favorite or a cozy weeknight indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium yams (about 2 pounds), peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the yam slices in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the sugars dissolve and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the syrup evenly over the yams, ensuring each slice is coated.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, stir the yams gently, and bake uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the syrup has thickened.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute maple syrup for a portion of the granulated sugar.
- Adjust the spice levels to your preference.
Equipment:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Aluminum foil
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Servings:
6-8 servings
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 20g |
| Protein | 2g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my candied yams with roasted vegetables and cornbread muffins—they balance the sweetness perfectly. The veggies add a nice crunch, while the muffins soak up all that delicious syrup. Trust me, it’s a combo that never disappoints!
Roasted Vegetables
Since candied yams are rich and sweet, pairing them with roasted vegetables can balance the dish with savory flavors, creating a meal that feels complete and satisfying. I love using healthy sides like roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or broccoli—they add a crunchy texture and earthy taste that complements the yams perfectly. Seasonal produce, like butternut squash in fall or zucchini in summer, keeps things fresh and vibrant. I toss the veggies with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them until caramelized. It’s an easy, colorful addition that makes the whole spread feel special without overshadowing the star of the show.
Cornbread Muffins
Though cornbread muffins are delicious on their own, they’re even better when paired with dishes that enhance their warm, buttery flavor. I love serving them with homemade candied yams because their sweet glaze complements the muffins perfectly. It’s like they were made for each other! Plus, cornbread muffins make a fantastic holiday side that adds a cozy touch to any meal. I usually whip up a batch when I have guests over—they’re always a hit. Trust me, once you try this combo, it’ll become a staple on your table, especially during festive gatherings!
