Cinnamon Yams
Cinnamon Yams are a warm, sweet side dish featuring tender yams topped with cinnamon, brown sugar, and butter. Perfect for holiday meals or cozy family dinners, this comforting dish offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine light brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Slice yams into 1/4-inch thick pieces and lay them in a greased ovenproof dish or pan.
- Pour melted butter over the yams, then sprinkle with the sugar mixture.
- Arrange another layer of yams and repeat the sprinkling with butter and sugar mixture.
- Continue layering until all yams are used.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the yams are hot and the sugar is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. If you have fresh yams, boiling them until tender before slicing will enhance their texture. You can substitute maple syrup for some or all of the brown sugar for a different sweetness profile. Don't skimp on the butter, as it helps create a deliciously rich glaze.
Serving Suggestions
These cinnamon yams make a perfect side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, particularly ham or turkey. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside American recipes like Grandpa Witzel's Potato Pancakes or a fresh green salad to balance the sweetness.
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 in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cinnamon Yams contains roughly 2761 calories, with 0g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 305g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1188mg per serving (52% 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 fresh yams instead of canned?
Yes, fresh yams can be used instead of canned. Just boil or bake them until tender, then slice them for layering. Fresh yams typically have a firmer texture, which can add an appealing bite to the dish.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
You can substitute brown sugar with an equal amount of coconut sugar or a mixture of white sugar and molasses (1 cup white sugar + 1 tablespoon molasses) for a similar flavor profile. This will keep the sweetness and add a slight caramel note.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, replace the melted butter with vegan butter or a neutral oil like coconut oil. Additionally, ensure that the brown sugar is vegan, as some brands may use bone char in the refining process.
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).