Candied yams are a deliciously sweet treat made by baking yams with butter, sugar, and spices. It’s comforting and perfect for any family dinner or holiday feast!
Every bite feels like a cozy hug. I love how the marshmallows get all gooey on top. They make my taste buds do happy dances! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yams or Sweet Potatoes: Either works! Yams are sweeter and denser, while sweet potatoes are creamier. If you can’t find either, parsnips can be an interesting substitute, though they’ll change the flavor.
Unsalted Butter: You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. If you’re avoiding fats, try applesauce for moisture and sweetness.
Brown Sugar: If you’d like a healthier option, use maple syrup or agave nectar. You can mix white sugar with a bit of molasses if brown sugar is not available.
Orange Juice: Apple juice works well too! This adds a fresh note to your dish. For a twist, you could use pineapple juice for a tropical flavor.
Spices: Don’t have nutmeg? Just stick with cinnamon—your yams will still be delicious! A pinch of allspice can also add warmth.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Tender and Flavorful Yams?
The key to getting tender, flavorful candied yams lies in a few important techniques:
- Slice Evenly: Make sure to cut the yams into equal thickness—about 1/2 inch—so they cook uniformly.
- Coat Evenly: When you pour the sugar mixture over the yams, make sure to coat each slice generously. This ensures that every bite is sweet.
- Cover During Baking: Covering with foil traps steam, helping to cook the yams through. Removing the foil at the end allows for caramelization and that beautiful gooey topping.
- Add Marshmallows Last: If you choose to add marshmallows, wait until the yams are almost done baking. This prevents them from burning and keeps them fluffy!
Following these tips will help you achieve yams that are not only soft but also bursting with flavor. Happy cooking!
How to Make Candied Yams?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Yams:
- 4 large yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 cup orange juice (or water)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Mini marshmallows for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to 1 hour to bake. So, you’re looking at a total of about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy this delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when you’re ready to bake those delicious yams!
2. Make the Sauce:
Next, grab a medium saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, stir in the brown sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Keep stirring for about 3-5 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. If you’re using vanilla extract, add it now and give it a stir!
3. Arrange the Yams:
In a large baking dish, arrange the sliced yams evenly. Make sure they lie flat so they cook nicely.
4. Pour on the Sauce:
Now, pour that lovely brown sugar mixture over your yams. Make sure each slice is coated well; this is what gives them that sweet, caramelized flavor!
5. Bake the Yams:
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the heat in and help those yams cook through. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the yams are tender and the sauce has thickened a bit.
6. Optional Marshmallow Topping:
If you want to add that classic marshmallow topping, remove the foil after baking, sprinkle some mini marshmallows on top of the yams, and return to the oven uncovered for another 5-10 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the marshmallows are golden brown and melted!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once you take them out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Serve your candied yams warm as a deliciously sweet side dish that everyone will love!
This recipe yields tender, flavorful candied yams with a rich, buttery syrup infused with warm spices. Perfect for holiday dinners or any cozy meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While yams are traditional, sweet potatoes work wonderfully too. They have a similar sweetness and texture, but using russet or white potatoes will change the flavor profile significantly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions for convenience.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they heat through.
What Can I Use Instead of Orange Juice?
If you don’t have orange juice on hand, apple juice or water makes a great substitute. For a different flavor twist, try using pineapple juice for a tropical touch!