The aroma wafting through the kitchen as you prepare candied yams is nothing short of magical. Sweet notes of brown sugar and creamy butter blend harmoniously, swirling together to form an inviting perfume that beckons everyone to gather around the table. As the yams slowly bake, their vibrant orange hue deepens—promising warmth and comfort with every bite. One glance at the bubbling caramel and the golden, toasted pecans adds to the visual allure, making these sweet potatoes not just a dish, but a captivating centerpiece of your holiday feast or family gathering.

Every forkful carries a delightful combination of textures. The yams melt in your mouth, their rich sweetness perfectly balanced by a hint of salt, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch that elevates each bite. You can almost taste the memories being made as everyone digs in, laughter and joyful chatter filling the air. The experience of enjoying candied yams transcends a mere side dish; it is the heart of gathering, wrapping you in the comforting embrace of home.

Why You’ll Love This Candied Yams

Candied yams stand out in the realm of side dishes, especially when celebrating special occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas. They effortlessly combine the nostalgic flavors that remind us of family traditions while also delighting the senses. Their irresistible sweetness paired with a hint of warmth from spices like cinnamon or nutmeg transforms any meal into a celebration.

Should you choose to whip up these delightful yams, you’ll find more than just flavor—his recipe offers a delightful sensory experience. The buttery glaze dances on your palate, weaving its way through the soft, velvety texture of the yams, leaving you in a state of bliss with each mouthful. Plus, these yams are versatile! They sit beautifully beside savory dishes like roasted turkey or baked ham, or simply becomes the star of a cozy dinner that warms the soul.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the joy of cooking, gather some essential tools to simplify your process:

Cutting Board and Knife: Easily peel and slice the yams into even rounds for uniform cooking.
Large Pot: Use this to melt the butter and mix in the brown sugar, allowing you to create a rich sauce.
Baking Dish: A sturdy dish not only holds the yams but beautifully showcases them as they caramelize in the oven.
Foil: Cover the dish during the first part of baking to lock in moisture and flavor, resulting in perfectly tender yams.

Practical Tips: Ensure your yams are fresh and firm, as they will yield the best flavor and texture. Also, have your ingredients pre-measured to streamline your cooking process.

Ingredients for Candied Yams

2 large yams: These vibrant root vegetables serve as the star ingredient, offering natural sweetness. If yams are not available, sweet potatoes make a fantastic substitute.
1/2 cup brown sugar: This adds an irresistible caramel flavor that complements the yams beautifully. Feel free to use coconut sugar for a slightly nuttier taste!
4 tablespoons butter: This ingredient provides richness and depth to the glaze. For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut oil.
1/2 cup pecans: Toast the nuts to enhance their flavor and add a delightful crunch. Walnuts also work well if you prefer something different.
Salt to taste: Just a pinch enhances and balances the overall sweetness.
Optional: cinnamon or nutmeg for seasoning: These warm spices bring comforting aromas to your dish, creating layers of flavor.

How to Make Candied Yams

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the perfect environment for caramelizing the yams.
Peel and Slice the Yams: Carefully peel and slice the yams into rounds about 1/2 inch thick. Aim for uniform slices to guarantee even cooking.
Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar until well combined, creating a luscious sauce.
Layer the Yams: Arrange the yam slices in a baking dish, pouring the butter and sugar mixture evenly over them to coat every piece luxuriously.
Add Seasoning: Sprinkle with salt, and if you’re feeling adventurous, add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile.
Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This step allows the yams to steam to soften beautifully.
Add Pecans and Bake Again: Remove the foil and sprinkle the toasted pecans on top. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the yams are fork-tender and beautifully caramelized.
Serve Warm: Dish up your candied yams while they’re warm and bubbling for the best experience!

Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips

Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the yams and the glaze the day before. Cover and refrigerate them, then simply bake them before serving.
Cooking Alternatives: Feel free to use an air fryer if you prefer a quicker method; the yams will turn out beautifully! Bake them at a lower temperature for a little longer, checking for tenderness.
Customization Ideas: Want to mix it up? Add a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist, or mix in some dried fruit like raisins for added texture and sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Yams: Watch the timing closely to avoid mushy results. Perfectly candied yams should be tender but still have a firm texture.
Skipping the Salt: It might seem counterintuitive, but a bit of salt enhances the sweetness of the yams. Don’t skip this step!
Lumping Sugar: Ensure your brown sugar is well-blended into the butter before adding to the yams to avoid clumping and uneven sweetness.

What to Serve With Candied Yams

Pair these delightful candied yams with a variety of dishes to create a well-rounded meal:

Roast Turkey: The savory notes of turkey complement the sweet caramelization of the yams, creating a balanced meal.
Glazed Ham: The sugars in the ham harmonize beautifully with the sweet yams for a duet of flavors.
Cornbread: The slight crumbles of cornbread alongside the buttery yams offer a delicious textural contrast.
Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish adds a savory crunch that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the candied yams.
Braised Collard Greens: Their earthiness balances the sweetness, offering a vibrant, nutritious addition to your plate.
Stuffing: The savory herbs in stuffing meld well with the sweet notes of your yams, creating a heavenly bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Estimated Nutrition Information

While this recipe is decadent, enjoying it in moderation can be part of a balanced diet. Each serving (based on the recipe above) provides approximately:

Calories: 250
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and ingredient variations.

FAQs

Can I use canned yams for candied yams?
Certainly! Canned yams can save time, but be sure to drain them thoroughly, as they contain extra moisture. Follow the same preparation steps but reduce the baking time since they’re already cooked.

What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?
Yams are starchier and drier than sweet potatoes, which typically have a sweeter, creamier texture. In many recipes, sweet potatoes are commonly used as a substitute for yams due to their flavor similarity.

Can I make candied yams vegan?
Yes, simply substitute the butter for coconut oil or vegan margarine. Use brown sugar and enjoy the same delightful flavors without the dairy.

How do I add more flavors to my candied yams?
Incorporate spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique twist or drizzle with maple syrup for a deeper flavor. Consider adding fresh citrus zest for a bright kick.

Can I prepare candied yams in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge for a day. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Every holiday meal deserves the addition of candied yams, with their sweet, rich flavors and comforting texture. This beloved dish has the power to create warmth, nostalgia, and joy around the table. As you prepare this recipe and share it with loved ones, each bite carries the essence of home and togetherness. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this culinary adventure that promises satisfaction with each sweet, gooey bite. You won’t just be feeding the body; you’ll be nurturing the soul. Enjoy!

Candied Yams

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Author: sarah
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful holiday side dish featuring sweet yams glazed in brown sugar and butter, topped with crunchy pecans.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large yams
1/2 cup brown sugar
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup pecans
Salt to taste
Optional: cinnamon or nutmeg for seasoning

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Peel and slice the yams into rounds about 1/2 inch thick.
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat and stir in the brown sugar until well combined.
Layer the yam slices in a baking dish and pour the butter and sugar mixture evenly over them.
Sprinkle with salt and add optional spices if desired.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil, add the toasted pecans on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Serve warm.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut oil for butter. You can prepare yams and glaze a day in advance.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 100mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg