Mom'S Candied Yams
Sweet and tender candied yams with caramelized sugar and cinnamon, perfect as a comforting side dish for holiday dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the sweet potatoes and place them in a casserole dish.
- In a bowl, mix sugar, cornstarch, salt, cinnamon, water, vanilla, and melted margarine until well combined.
- Pour the mixture over the sliced sweet potatoes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until the yams are tender and the topping is caramelized.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange juice to the mixture. If you don't have cornstarch, all-purpose flour can be used as a thickening agent. To save time, you can use canned sweet potatoes, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly as they are already cooked.
Serving Suggestions
These candied yams make an excellent side for holiday meals, pairing beautifully with Cornish Hen or a savory roast. Serve them alongside delicious cabbage slaw for a refreshing contrast. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped pecans or marshmallows before serving for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring to ensure even heating. A drizzle of water can help restore moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Candied Yams contains roughly 424 calories, with 3g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1321mg per serving (57% 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 different types of sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use different varieties of sweet potatoes, such as purple or Japanese sweet potatoes, which will alter the flavor slightly but still yield delicious results. Just ensure they are similar in texture and cooking time to maintain the recipe's integrity.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the melted margarine with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Ensure that the sugar used is also vegan, as some sugars are processed with bone char. This will keep the dish plant-based and just as delightful.
How can I make the topping extra crispy?
To achieve a crispier topping, broil the dish for the last few minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Adding a layer of mini marshmallows on top before broiling can also create a delightful toasted layer.
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).