Candied Yams Recipe: A Sweet and Comforting Holiday Classic


Candied Yams Recipe: A Sweet and Comforting Holiday Classic

Candied Yams Recipe: A Sweet and Comforting Holiday Classic


When it comes to soul food and holiday traditions, nothing feels quite as comforting as a warm candied yams recipe. Sweet, buttery, and coated in a spiced brown sugar glaze, candied yams are a staple at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Sunday dinners across the South.

This guide will show you exactly how to make the best candied yams recipe, from peeling the potatoes to simmering them in a rich syrup. You’ll also find tips to avoid common mistakes, variations to suit your taste, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Why This Candied Yams Recipe Works

  • Rich flavor: A glaze made with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

  • Tender texture: Yams are soft but not mushy.

  • Simple ingredients: Pantry staples you likely already have.

  • Perfect side dish: Complements turkey, ham, or roast chicken beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Candied Yams Recipe: A Sweet and Comforting Holiday Classic


To prepare this Southern-style candied yams recipe, gather the following:

  • 4–5 medium yams or sweet potatoes (peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds)

  • ½ cup unsalted butter

  • 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

  • ½ tsp nutmeg

  • ½ tsp ground ginger (optional)

  • ¼ tsp salt

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • ½ cup water or orange juice (for extra flavor)

Step-by-Step Candied Yams Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Yams

Peel and slice the yams into even rounds or wedges, about ½ inch thick. Even slices ensure they cook uniformly.

Step 2: Make the Syrup

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and water (or orange juice). Cook for 3–4 minutes until the mixture becomes a smooth syrup.

Step 3: Coat the Yams

Place sliced yams in a large baking dish. Pour the hot syrup over the yams, tossing lightly to coat. Add vanilla extract for extra aroma.

Step 4: Bake Until Tender

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil, stir gently, and bake another 20–30 minutes until yams are tender and caramelized. Baste occasionally with the syrup for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm, straight from the oven. These yams pair perfectly with roasted meats, greens, and cornbread.

Tips for the Best Candied Yams Recipe

  • Choose the right potatoes: Red or orange-fleshed sweet potatoes work best for sweetness and color.

  • Cut evenly: This ensures all pieces cook at the same time.

  • Don’t overbake: Yams should be tender but not falling apart.

  • Baste often: The more syrup coats the yams, the richer the flavor.

  • Add marshmallows (optional): For a classic holiday twist, top with mini marshmallows in the last 10 minutes of baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using too much liquid (results in watery syrup).

  • Skipping the foil (yams may dry out before cooking fully).

  • Adding marshmallows too early (they burn before yams finish baking).

  • Overstirring the yams (causes them to break apart).

Variations of Candied Yams Recipe

  • Southern Candied Yams: Heavy on butter and brown sugar, rich and decadent.

  • Orange-Glazed Yams: Replace water with orange juice for a citrusy twist.

  • Maple Yams: Swap part of the sugar with pure maple syrup.

  • Spicy Candied Yams: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.

What to Serve with Candied Yams

Candied yams are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with:

  • Roast turkey or chicken

  • Glazed ham

  • Collard greens or green beans

  • Macaroni and cheese

  • Cornbread or dinner rolls

FAQ About Candied Yams Recipe

1. Can I use canned yams instead of fresh?

Yes, but drain them well and reduce baking time since they’re already soft.

2. What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?

In the U.S., “yams” usually refer to sweet potatoes with orange flesh. True yams are starchy and rarely found in American grocery stores.

3. Can I make candied yams ahead of time?

Absolutely. Bake them a day in advance, refrigerate, and reheat at 350°F before serving.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

5. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.

Final Thoughts

This candied yams recipe is a timeless dish that adds warmth and sweetness to any meal. With a buttery glaze, spiced syrup, and tender slices of yam, it’s no wonder this dish has become a holiday tradition.

Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving, Sunday dinner, or a cozy family gathering, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of flavor and nostalgia. Try it once, and you’ll want to make it year after year.

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