David Warren'S Candied Yams
Sweet and spiced candied yams with a buttery glaze, perfect as a comforting side dish for holidays or family dinners, blending warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the yams in water to cover until tender. Drain and cool slightly.
- Peel the yams and cut them into quarters.
- Place the yams in a long, shallow baking dish.
- Sprinkle with nutmeg and cinnamon. Cut the butter into thin slivers and distribute over the surface.
- Pour water over the yams, then sprinkle sugar and salt over all.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 30 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose firm, medium-sized yams for even cooking. If you prefer a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of maple syrup to the butter and sugar mixture. You can also substitute brown sugar for white sugar for a richer taste. If you’re short on time, microwaving the yams until tender can speed up the process.
Serving Suggestions
These candied yams make a delightful side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, such as turkey or ham, and can be complemented with a fresh green salad. For a sweet treat, serve alongside desserts like Mother'S Fruit Cake Cookies or Layered Lemon Crumb Bars for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candied yams 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 preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of David Warren'S Candied Yams contains roughly 459 calories, with 3g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 sweet potatoes instead of yams?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for yams in this recipe. They will provide a similar sweetness and texture. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly, as sweet potatoes may cook faster than yams.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make vegan candied yams, substitute the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil. You can also replace the sugar with coconut sugar or a plant-based sweetener. The flavors will remain deliciously rich while accommodating a vegan diet.
Can I prepare the yams in advance?
Yes, you can peel and cut the yams a day in advance. Store them submerged in water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Before baking, drain and follow the recipe as instructed. This will save you time on the day you plan to serve them.
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).