Southern Candied Yams Recipe With Sweet and Spiced Glaze

Why You’ll Love This Candied Yams

Candied yams have a special place in many kitchens, especially during holiday meals, and this recipe brings that classic comfort right to your table. Picture warm, tender sweet potatoes bathed in a rich, spiced glaze that makes every bite feel like a cozy hug. It’s one of those dishes that’s not only delicious but also simple enough for beginners to master, making it a go-to for everyday dinners or festive gatherings.

One reason you’ll adore this candied yams recipe is its ease of preparation, letting you whip up a tasty side without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a short prep time of 15 minutes and a total cook time of about an hour, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something homemade but hassle-free. This approach keeps things straightforward, focusing on fresh ingredients like sweet potatoes that turn into a delightful treat with minimal effort.

• Ease of preparation: This candied yams dish comes together quickly and simply, starting with basic steps that anyone can follow, making it ideal for home cooks new to the kitchen. You’ll appreciate how the quick cooking time about 1 hour and 15 minutes total fits into a hectic schedule, allowing you to enjoy the sweet, spiced flavors without complicated techniques.
• Health benefits: Packed with nutrients, these candied yams offer a boost of vitamin A and fiber, supporting eye health and digestion while satisfying your sweet tooth. Each serving provides around 429 calories, with low sodium at 103 mg and plenty of potassium for overall wellness, making it a smarter choice for those watching their diet without losing the comforting taste.
• Versatility: These candied yams adapt easily to various needs, whether you’re adjusting for dietary preferences or mixing them into different meals. You can tweak the recipe for vegan options or scale it up for a crowd, ensuring it works for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a standalone snack, which highlights its flexibility in everyday cooking.
• Distinctive flavor: What sets these candied yams apart is the perfect blend of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg with brown sugar, creating a warm, irresistible glaze that elevates the natural sweetness of the potatoes. This combination delivers a unique taste that’s comforting yet exciting, turning a simple side into a memorable highlight of any meal.

By incorporating candied yams into your routine, you’re not just making food you’re creating moments that bring people together. Whether it’s the health perks or the easy prep, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Essential Ingredients for Candied Yams

In this section, we’ll dive into the key ingredients that make this candied yams recipe shine, using simple items you likely have on hand or can easily find. Each one plays a crucial role in building that sweet and spiced glaze, ensuring a dish that’s full of flavor and texture. Let’s look at the essentials, explained with their purposes to help you understand why they work so well.

• Sweet potatoes: 1.5 lbs (about 3 medium-sized) – These form the hearty base of the dish, providing natural sweetness and a soft texture that absorbs the glaze beautifully, making them the star for any candied yams preparation.
• Salted butter: 5 tablespoons (or unsalted butter with a pinch of salt) – This adds a creamy richness that helps create the glossy sauce, enhancing the overall mouthfeel and carrying the flavors of the spices and sugars.
• Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon – It brings a warm, aromatic spice that complements the sweetness, giving the candied yams their signature cozy flavor profile.
• Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon – This adds a subtle, nutty depth that balances the sweetness without overpowering, ensuring a well-rounded taste in every bite.
• Brown sugar: 1/2 cup – Provides a deep, molasses-like sweetness that caramelizes during baking, creating that irresistible sticky glaze for candied yams.
• Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup – Offers a straightforward sweetness that blends with the other ingredients, helping to achieve the perfect consistency in the sauce.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon – Infuses a hint of warmth and complexity, tying all the flavors together for a more inviting and homemade feel in your candied yams.

For special dietary options, consider these tweaks to make your candied yams more inclusive. For vegan choices, swap the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil to keep the dish dairy-free while maintaining its creamy texture. If you’re aiming for gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as is, just double-check your vanilla extract. For low-calorie adjustments, reduce the sugars slightly or use a sugar substitute, which can lighten the dish without losing its appealing sweetness.

How to Prepare the Perfect Candied Yams: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting ready to make these candied yams is as easy as gathering your ingredients and following along this recipe walks you through each part to ensure success. We’ll start with the basics and build up, so even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll feel confident. Remember, the key to great candied yams is in the timing and even coating, which helps lock in that sweet, spiced goodness.

First Step: Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, as this sets the stage for even baking. Peel and rinse the 1.5 lbs of sweet potatoes, then slice them into 1/2- to 1-inch thick circles, halving them if needed to fit your baking dish this prep work ensures they cook uniformly and soak up the flavors well. For dietary adaptations, if you’re using a vegan butter substitute, swap it in here to keep things plant-based without changing the process.

Second Step: Grease a small baking dish with a bit of butter to prevent sticking, creating a non-stick surface that makes serving easier later. This is where you can add a personal touch, like incorporating orange juice for extra zest if you prefer a brighter flavor. If you’re adjusting for low-sugar needs, measure your sugars carefully at this point to maintain balance.

Third Step: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the 5 tablespoons of salted butter until it’s fully liquid this forms the base of your glaze. Once melted, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. For variations, taste and adjust the spices here if you want more warmth, and consider unsalted butter with a pinch of salt for those watching sodium intake.

Fourth Step: Cook the mixture for about 3 minutes, stirring until it becomes smooth and glossy, which helps it coat the potatoes evenly. Pour this warm glaze over the sliced sweet potatoes in your prepared baking dish, making sure every piece is covered for that perfect candied effect. If adapting for gluten-free preferences, this step remains the same, as all ingredients are naturally compliant.

Fifth Step: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 400 degrees for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to become tender and absorb the flavors. After this, remove the foil, gently stir the sweet potatoes to redistribute the glaze, and increase the oven to 425 degrees for another 15 minutes of uncovered baking. This final uncovered time lets the tops caramelize nicely, and it’s a good spot to add marshmallows if you’re aiming for a sweeter finish, while keeping in mind any dietary tweaks like low-fat options.

Final Step: Once baked, let the dish cool slightly before serving it warm as a side this resting period helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to handle. Pair it with your main meal for a comforting addition, and feel free to experiment with portions for different group sizes. With this method, your candied yams will turn out just right every time, offering a versatile dish that’s hard to resist. For more ideas on sweet potato dishes, check out this sweet potato variation on our site.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Candied Yams

Customizing your candied yams can make them fit any lifestyle, and below are some easy swaps to try. We’ll cover options for the main ingredients and other components, helping you adjust based on what you have or need.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

When it comes to the main elements of candied yams, like the sweet potatoes, you have plenty of swaps to consider for different diets. For instance, if going vegetarian or vegan, replace sweet potatoes with butternut squash for a similar texture and natural sweetness that holds up well in baking. This change might slightly alter the cooking time by a few minutes and add a milder flavor, so taste as you go and adjust seasonings to keep that comforting warmth.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Swapping vegetables or seasonings in candied yams lets you play with flavors based on what’s in season or your preferences. Try using apples instead of some sweet potatoes for a fresh twist that adds acidity and cuts the sweetness, or opt for a low-sugar sauce by reducing the granulated sugar and using apple sauce instead. These changes can make the dish lighter or allergen-friendly, like swapping butter for olive oil to reduce fat, while ensuring the overall balance of flavors remains inviting and true to candied yams style.

Mastering Candied Yams: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your candied yams to the next level involves a few pro techniques that can enhance the results. For better caramelization, try layering the potatoes in the dish instead of just pouring the glaze, which helps distribute flavors more evenly. You might also experiment with roasting at a higher initial temperature to get that golden crust. Explore spiced variations like this one for more ideas on flavor profiles.

For flavor variations, add citrus zest or a splash of bourbon to the glaze for a modern twist that brings extra depth without overwhelming the dish. Presentation-wise, garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nuts to make it look as good as it tastes, turning a simple side into a centerpiece. If you’re prepping ahead, slice and store the potatoes in water as noted, then assemble just before baking to save time on busy days.

How to Store Candied Yams: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your candied yams tasting fresh, and it’s simple to do. For short-term needs, refrigerate them in an airtight container, which helps maintain their texture for up to 4 days. When freezing for longer storage, let them cool first, then pack in freezer-safe bags to preserve that sweet glaze without freezer burn.

Reheating is key to enjoying leftovers, so use the oven at 350 degrees for even warming that keeps the caramelized goodness intact avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess. For meal prep, portion into individual containers and label them for quick grabs during the week, making candied yams a convenient option for any schedule.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Candied Yams

Candied Yams

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• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

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Description

🍠 Southern Candied Yams offer a sweet and spiced glaze that perfectly complements tender roasted sweet potatoes.
🔥 This comforting side dish is rich in flavor and ideal for holiday meals or everyday dinners, bringing warmth and sweetness to your table.

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Ingredients

– 1.5 lbs sweet potatoes (about 3 medium-sized) These form the hearty base of the dish, providing natural sweetness and a soft texture that absorbs the glaze beautifully, making them the star for any candied yams preparation.

– 5 tablespoons salted butter (or unsalted butter with a pinch of salt) This adds a creamy richness that helps create the glossy sauce, enhancing the overall mouthfeel and carrying the flavors of the spices and sugars.

– 1 teaspoon cinnamon It brings a warm, aromatic spice that complements the sweetness, giving the candied yams their signature cozy flavor profile.

– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg This adds a subtle, nutty depth that balances the sweetness without overpowering, ensuring a well-rounded taste in every bite.

– 1/2 cup brown sugar Provides a deep, molasses-like sweetness that caramelizes during baking, creating that irresistible sticky glaze for candied yams.

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar Offers a straightforward sweetness that blends with the other ingredients, helping to achieve the perfect consistency in the sauce.

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Infuses a hint of warmth and complexity, tying all the flavors together for a more inviting and homemade feel in your candied yams.

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Instructions

1-First Step: Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, as this sets the stage for even baking. Peel and rinse the 1.5 lbs of sweet potatoes, then slice them into 1/2- to 1-inch thick circles, halving them if needed to fit your baking dish this prep work ensures they cook uniformly and soak up the flavors well. For dietary adaptations, if you’re using a vegan butter substitute, swap it in here to keep things plant-based without changing the process.

2-Second Step: Grease a small baking dish with a bit of butter to prevent sticking, creating a non-stick surface that makes serving easier later. This is where you can add a personal touch, like incorporating orange juice for extra zest if you prefer a brighter flavor. If you’re adjusting for low-sugar needs, measure your sugars carefully at this point to maintain balance.

3-Third Step: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the 5 tablespoons of salted butter until it’s fully liquid this forms the base of your glaze. Once melted, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. For variations, taste and adjust the spices here if you want more warmth, and consider unsalted butter with a pinch of salt for those watching sodium intake.

4-Fourth Step: Cook the mixture for about 3 minutes, stirring until it becomes smooth and glossy, which helps it coat the potatoes evenly. Pour this warm glaze over the sliced sweet potatoes in your prepared baking dish, making sure every piece is covered for that perfect candied effect. If adapting for gluten-free preferences, this step remains the same, as all ingredients are naturally compliant.

5-Fifth Step: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 400 degrees for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to become tender and absorb the flavors. After this, remove the foil, gently stir the sweet potatoes to redistribute the glaze, and increase the oven to 425 degrees for another 15 minutes of uncovered baking. This final uncovered time lets the tops caramelize nicely, and it’s a good spot to add marshmallows if you’re aiming for a sweeter finish, while keeping in mind any dietary tweaks like low-fat options.

6-Final Step: Once baked, let the dish cool slightly before serving it warm as a side this resting period helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to handle. Pair it with your main meal for a comforting addition, and feel free to experiment with portions for different group sizes. With this method, your candied yams will turn out just right every time, offering a versatile dish that’s hard to resist. For more ideas on sweet potato dishes, check out this sweet potato variation on our site.

Notes

🍊 Adding a splash of orange juice to the sauce can enhance its flavors.
🧈 If using unsalted butter, add a pinch of salt for balanced taste.
⏳ If sauce remains too liquid after baking, cook uncovered longer or spoon out excess liquid.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Baking time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 429
• Sugar: 46g
• Sodium: 103mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 74g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 38mg

Keywords: southern candied yams,sweet potato side dish,spiced glazed yams,holiday side recipe