Name: Candied Yams Recipe: Sweet and Comforting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 large yams (2 lbs, peeled, cut into 1-inch chunks); 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup orange juice (optional); Optional: Cinnamon (parsley, pecans); Suggested Pairings: Roasted turkey (iced tea)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Candied Yams are a classic, heartwarming side dish, perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or cozy meals. This rich, sweet dish features tender yams coated in a buttery, caramelized glaze, infused with warm spices for a comforting, festive flavor. Presented in a white ceramic baking dish, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh parsley, these Candied Yams offer a warm, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, and ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing, soulful side dish that balances sweetness and spice for a memorable meal.

Ingredients

For the Candied Yams:

3 large yams (about 2 lbs), peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
1/2 cup unsalted butter
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup orange juice (optional, for brightness)

For Serving:

Optional: Sprinkle of cinnamon, fresh parsley, or chopped pecans
Suggested Accompaniments: Roasted turkey, green beans
Suggested Pairings: Iced tea, apple cider
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic baking dish
Suggested Equipment: Large pot, medium saucepan, 9×13-inch baking dish, whisk, peeler, knife

Step-by-Step Process

Cook Yams: Place yam chunks in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes until just tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
Make Glaze: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, vanilla extract, salt, and orange juice (if using). Whisk until smooth and bubbly, about 3–4 minutes. Taste the glaze and adjust the sweetness (add 1 tbsp brown sugar) or spice (add 1/8 tsp cinnamon) for a balanced flavor.
Combine Yams and Glaze: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place drained yams in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour glaze over yams, tossing gently to coat evenly.
Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway, until yams are tender and glaze is thickened and caramelized.
Serve: Transfer to a white ceramic baking dish (if not already used) and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, parsley, or pecans. Serve with roasted turkey, green beans, iced tea, or apple cider.

Tips for Better Candied Yams

Choose firm, orange-fleshed yams for the best texture; avoid overcooking during boiling to maintain shape.
Taste the glaze before combining with yams to balance sweetness and spice, as brown sugar and spices vary.
Stir gently when coating yams to prevent breaking; use a spatula for even distribution.
Bake until glaze is caramelized but not burnt; check at 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Use a white ceramic baking dish for a warm presentation that highlights the glossy glaze.
Make ahead: Boil yams and prepare glaze 1 day in advance; combine and bake day-of.
Add pecans or marshmallows in the last 5 minutes of baking for extra texture or sweetness.
Enhance aesthetic: Present in a white ceramic dish with a cinnamon sprinkle or parsley for a cozy, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Vegan Candied Yams: Replace butter with vegan margarine and maple syrup with agave nectar; ensure all ingredients are vegan.
Gluten-Free Candied Yams: Naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients (e.g., vanilla extract) are gluten-free certified.
Low-Sugar Candied Yams: Reduce brown sugar to 1/2 cup and maple syrup to 2 tbsp; use a sugar substitute like stevia (adjust to taste).
Spicy Candied Yams: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or 1/2 tsp chili powder to the glaze for a sweet-spicy twist.
Citrus Candied Yams: Increase orange juice to 1/2 cup and add 1 tsp orange zest for a brighter flavor.
Marshmallow Candied Yams: Top with 1 cup mini marshmallows in the last 5 minutes of baking for a classic variation.
Nutty Candied Yams: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts with the glaze for added crunch.
Bourbon Candied Yams: Add 2 tbsp bourbon to the glaze for a rich, adult-friendly flavor.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes.
Freeze for up to 2 months in airtight containers; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Serve warm for the best flavor and texture; avoid keeping at room temperature for over 2 hours due to the butter content.
Use leftovers as a topping for oatmeal, blended into a smoothie, or mashed into pancakes.
Pair with roasted meats or green vegetables to complement the sweet, rich flavor.
Presented in a white ceramic baking dish with vibrant garnishes for a cozy, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 6 servings (1/2 cup each):

Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 220mg
Total Carbohydrates: 44g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 28g
Protein: 2g
Vitamin A: 200% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 20% Daily Value
Calcium: 6% Daily Value
Iron: 6% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. High in sugar and fat; try low-sugar or vegan versions. Pair with vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Candied Yams recipe offers a sweet, comforting side dish, perfect for any occasion, transforming humble yams into a festive classic. Its straightforward preparation and warm presentation make it a favorite. The tender yams, glossy glaze, and vibrant garnishes delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its soulful, customizable appeal.