The Best Candied Yams Recipe: A Southern Thanksgiving Classic
A classic Southern side dish made with sweet potatoes, dark brown sugar, butter, and spices.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Essential Tools
Large saucepan or pot
8x8-inch square baking dish
Measuring cups and spoons
Slotted spoon
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Preparation
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Peel and cut sweet potatoes into 1-inch pieces.
Place sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a low boil. Simmer until slightly softened, about 10 minutes.
Transfer sweet potatoes to an 8x8-inch baking dish. Reserve 3/4 cup cooking water.
In a bowl, combine reserved water, dark brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until sugar dissolves.
Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg over sweet potatoes. Pour sugar mixture over the top.
Cut butter into cubes and scatter over sweet potatoes.
Bake for 5 minutes, then toss gently to coat evenly. Bake for 10 minutes more, until fork-tender.
Recipe Variations
Pecan Candied Yams
Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans before the final bake for a nutty crunch.
Maple Candied Yams
Substitute 1/4 cup of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor.
Marshmallow Candied Yams
Top with mini marshmallows during the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey, sweet treat.
Chef's Tips
Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
Don’t overcook the sweet potatoes during parboiling. They should be slightly firm.
Adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to your personal preference.
Storage & Conservation
Store leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze, let cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Mistakes
Overcooking the sweet potatoes, resulting in a mushy texture.
Not dissolving the brown sugar completely, leading to a grainy sauce.
Burning the butter, which can create a bitter taste.
Recipe Keywords
Conclusion
This candied yams recipe is a must-have for any Thanksgiving or holiday gathering. With its sweet, spiced flavor and easy preparation, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this classic Southern side dish and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar? expand_more
Dark brown sugar is recommended for its richer flavor, but you can substitute with regular brown sugar. Consider adding a tablespoon of molasses to enhance the flavor.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes? expand_more
Fresh sweet potatoes are preferred for the best texture, but you can use canned in a pinch. Drain them well and adjust cooking time.
Can I make this recipe vegan? expand_more
Yes, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative.
How do I prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking? expand_more
Lightly grease the baking dish before adding the sweet potatoes.
Can I add other spices? expand_more
Yes, experiment with spices like ginger, allspice, or cardamom.
What if I don't have an 8x8-inch baking dish? expand_more
Use a similar-sized dish and adjust baking time as needed.
My sauce is too thin, how to thicken it? expand_more
Simmer the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens.