Candied Yams With Cider
Sweet and tender candied yams infused with rich cider and brown sugar, baked to perfection. A comforting side ideal for holiday dinners or cozy family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook yams in boiling water for about 20 minutes until barely tender. Peel and cut in half lengthwise.
- Arrange the yams in a buttered baking dish.
- In a saucepan, combine cider, brown sugar, and butter, then bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour the cider mixture over the yams in the baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes, basting yams several times with the syrup during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cider mixture. If you don't have yams, sweet potatoes can be a suitable substitute. To prevent the yams from becoming too mushy, ensure they're only cooked until barely tender before baking. This recipe is a wonderful addition to any American recipes collection.
Serving Suggestions
Serve candied yams as a delightful side dish during holiday meals or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, such as turkey or ham, and can be complemented with a refreshing green salad. For a sweet finish, consider serving alongside desserts like Mom's Quick Chocolate Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Yams With Cider contains roughly 474 calories, with 0g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 20g fat.
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 make candied yams in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the yams and the cider mixture a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake when you're ready to serve. This can save time during busy holidays.
What can I use instead of cider?
If you don't have cider, apple juice can be a suitable alternative, providing a similar sweetness and flavor. For a non-sweet option, consider using vegetable broth with a splash of vinegar for acidity.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To reduce sugar, you can cut back on the brown sugar or substitute it with a sugar alternative like stevia or maple syrup. Additionally, using a smaller amount of butter or a healthier fat, such as coconut oil, can lighten the recipe.
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).