Butterscotch Yams
Butterscotch Yams offer a rich, sweet flavor combination of tender cooked yams topped with a luscious butterscotch glaze. The warm cinnamon and caramel-like notes make it a comforting side dish perfect for holiday dinners or family gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange the cooked, peeled, and halved yams in a single layer in a 12 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- In a saucepan, stir together the light brown sugar, dark corn syrup, light cream, margarine, salt, and cinnamon.
- Stirring constantly, bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat and boil for 3 minutes.
- Pour the hot butterscotch sauce over the yams in the baking dish.
- Bake in a 450°F oven for 20 minutes, basting once halfway through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute the dark corn syrup with maple syrup or honey. To save time, you can use pre-cooked yams or sweet potatoes found in the frozen section. Be sure to watch the baking time closely to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
These butterscotch yams make a delightful side dish for holiday meals, pairing beautifully with roasted meats or vegetarian recipes like stuffed bell peppers. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad to balance the sweetness. A sprinkle of chopped nuts on top can add a nice crunch and flavor contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the yams in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butterscotch Yams contains roughly 148 calories, with 0g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1184mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of sweet potatoes or squash in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute yams with other sweet potatoes or even butternut squash. Each alternative will provide a slightly different flavor and texture, but they will still work well with the butterscotch sauce.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this dish vegan, use coconut cream in place of light cream and substitute margarine with a plant-based butter. Ensure that the dark corn syrup you use is also vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain animal products.
What can I serve with Butterscotch Yams?
These yams pair wonderfully with savory dishes like roasted turkey or ham. They also complement American recipes featuring hearty grains or legumes, making them versatile enough to serve at any gathering or holiday feast.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).