The Best Candied Yams
Sweet and comforting candied yams with rich brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and buttery glaze, perfect as a holiday side dish or cozy family treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the yams in water and boil until they are cooked, then cool and peel off the skin.
- Place yams in a buttered baking dish.
- Mix together the white sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, melted butter, and salt.
- Spoon the mixture over the yams.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. If you like a bit of crunch, you can include chopped pecans or walnuts in the sugar mixture. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of brown sugar to 1/2 cup. This recipe is a delightful addition to any holiday table, complementing dishes like Butterfinger Treats.
Serving Suggestions
These candied yams make a wonderful side dish for holiday meals, particularly with roasted turkey or ham. They also pair well with savory dishes like collard greens or cornbread. For a complete meal, serve alongside Lucille Colbert'S Grapefruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. Garnish with additional cinnamon or toasted nuts for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Best Candied Yams contains roughly 134 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1208mg per serving (53% 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 sweet potatoes instead of yams?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for yams in this recipe. They provide a similar sweetness and texture, though the flavor will be slightly different. Make sure to adjust cooking times as needed, as sweet potatoes may cook faster.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make candied yams vegan, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative or coconut oil. You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of white and brown sugar for a more natural sweetener that fits vegan diets.
What can I do if my yams are too watery?
If your yams are too watery, you can reduce the liquid by baking them uncovered for a few minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, you can add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water to the sugar mixture to thicken it and balance the moisture.
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).