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.