There’s something heartwarming about the smell of sweet potatoes baking in the oven, especially when they’re lovingly transformed into candied yams. I first experimented with this dish during a family gathering where we aimed to impress everyone with a traditional recipe that also offered a little twist. The rich caramelized sweetness complemented the natural flavor of the potatoes so beautifully that it turned into an instant favorite!
Perfect for holiday feasts or cozy dinners, candied yams sweet potatoes deliver that nostalgic comfort food essence while being surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that not only looks stunning but also tantalizes the taste buds. Whether you’re tired of the same old side dishes or just looking for something that brings everyone to the table with smiles, this recipe is sure to charm. Let’s dive in and bring some joy to your kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Candied Yams Sweet Potatoes
- This recipe is wonderfully easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions.
- The rich, caramelized flavor elevates the sweet potatoes to a whole new level of deliciousness that everyone will adore.
- Its versatility allows you to serve it as a side dish for holiday gatherings or as a comforting addition to any meal.
- Not only does it taste amazing, but the beautiful presentation of the yams makes it a stunning centerpiece on your table.
Candied Yams Sweet Potatoes Ingredients
For the Yams
• 3 large sweet potatoes – choose firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
• 1 cup brown sugar – adds rich sweetness and a beautiful caramelized color.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter – enhances creaminess and depth of flavor in the dish.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – a warm spice that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg – adds warmth and an aromatic touch to the candied mixture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – elevates the flavor profile and adds a lovely aroma.
• 1/4 cup water – helps create a sweet syrup as the yams bake.
For Garnish (optional)
• Chopped pecans – provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
• Marshmallows – add sweetness and a fun, gooey texture if you want a classic touch.
These candied yams sweet potatoes are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, destined to be a crowd favorite on your dinner table!
How to Make Candied Yams Sweet Potatoes
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Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes, about 1 inch thick. This ensures they cook uniformly and absorb all the delicious flavors during baking.
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Melt the unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. As it melts, it will create a rich base for your sweet mixture.
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Combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and water with the melted butter in the pan. Stir everything together until you have a bubbly, uniform mixture.
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Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the saucepan. Gently toss them in the sweet syrup until they’re evenly coated, ensuring each piece is infused with that delightful flavor.
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Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading them out for even cooking. This will help them caramelize beautifully in the oven.
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Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure all the yams get that lovely candied finish. Look for them to be tender and glazed!
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Garnish if desired by sprinkling chopped pecans or mini marshmallows over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking. This adds a delightful texture and sweetness to your dish.
Optional: Serve warm for the best flavor experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Candied Yams Sweet Potatoes Variations
Feel free to adapt this recipe to your taste, making it uniquely yours!
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Maple Syrup: Substitute brown sugar with an equal amount of maple syrup for a rich, earthy flavor twist.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the butter mixture for a surprising hint of heat.
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Nutty Texture: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a nutty flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in a tablespoon of fresh thyme or rosemary during baking for a savory contrast to the sweet yams.
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Coconut Delight: Replace half the butter with coconut oil, and sprinkle shredded coconut on top for a tropical flair.
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Fruit Fusion: Toss in sliced apples or pears along with the sweet potatoes to add a juicy, fruity dimension to the dish.
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Orange Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of fresh orange zest to brighten the flavors and add a citrusy aroma.
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Vanilla Bean: For a gourmet touch, use the seeds from a fresh vanilla bean instead of extract to amplify the flavor profile.
With these variations, you can create candied yams sweet potatoes that tantalize the taste buds and suit any occasion!
What to Serve with Candied Yams Sweet Potatoes?
The magic of candied yams sweet potatoes can elevate any meal, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere at your family table.
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Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated chicken pairs beautifully with the sweetness of yams, creating a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors.
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Green Bean Almondine: The crisp snap of green beans, tossed with toasted almonds, adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sweetness of the candied yams.
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Savory Stuffing: A savory stuffing filled with herbs and spices complements the richness of the yams, bringing in a lovely depth to your holiday feast or comforting dinner.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of glazed carrots creates harmony with your candied yams, and their bright color adds visual appeal to your plate.
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Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: The richness and cheesiness of mac and cheese work wonders alongside the sweet and buttery yams, creating that ultimate comfort food combination.
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Apple Cider: A chilled glass of apple cider brings a refreshing tang that cuts through the sweetness of the yams beautifully, enhancing your meal experience.
These pairing ideas will surely add layers of flavor and satisfaction to your dining experience, making each bite a celebration of home-cooked goodness!
How to Store and Freeze Candied Yams Sweet Potatoes
Fridge: Store uneaten candied yams sweet potatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick reheating.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Cover with foil to retain moisture.
Serving Tip: Add a drizzle of melted butter or fresh maple syrup while reheating to enhance the flavors and bring back that fresh-baked taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Candied Yams Sweet Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can peel and chop the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them submerged in water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, you can prepare the sweet syrup mixture (butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and water) and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the sweet potatoes with the syrup, transfer them to a greased baking dish, and bake as directed for 30–35 minutes. This way, you’ll have a delicious dish with minimal effort, ready to impress your guests!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For making the best candied yams sweet potatoes, ensure your sweet potatoes are evenly cubed to guarantee uniform cooking and optimal flavor absorption.
- Avoid using cold butter from the fridge; instead, make sure it is softened to create a smooth mixture when combined with the sugars and spices.
- When baking, remember to stir the yams halfway through to promote even caramelization and prevent any pieces from cooking too fast.
- Lastly, keep an eye on the oven temperature, as every oven can vary and you want to avoid overcooking and drying out the sweet potatoes.
Candied Yams Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best sweet potatoes for candied yams?
Absolutely! When selecting sweet potatoes, choose large, firm ones with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid any that have dark spots or softness, as these are signs of spoilage. Fresh sweet potatoes will ensure your dish has the optimal texture and natural sweetness!
How should I store leftover candied yams sweet potatoes?
To keep your delicious candied yams fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Can I freeze candied yams sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them! Portion the candied yams into freezer-safe containers and they will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, adding a little melted butter or maple syrup for added flavor.
What should I do if my candied yams are too runny?
Very! If your mixture turns out watery, you can thicken it by baking the yams a bit longer to allow more moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water, then stir it into the yams. Continue baking until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Are candied yams sweet potatoes safe for dogs?
While sweet potatoes are generally safe for dogs in moderation, ensure you don’t add any sugar, butter, or spices. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods into your dog’s diet to avoid any potential allergies or tummy troubles.
How can I customize the flavors of my candied yams?
Of course! You can enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat, or incorporating orange zest for a fruity twist. Another delightful variation is to include dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra texture and natural sweetness. The more the merrier when experimenting with flavors!
Candied Yams Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes, about 1 inch thick.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and water with the melted butter in the pan.
- Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the saucepan and gently toss them in the sweet syrup.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes.
- Garnish if desired by sprinkling chopped pecans or mini marshmallows over the top.
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