What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These candied yams are the perfect blend of sweet and comforting, making them a must-try for any occasion. You’ll adore how simple they are to prepare, yet they taste like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
- The marshmallows on top turn golden and gooey, adding a fun, irresistible touch.
- The sweetness of the brown sugar syrup perfectly complements the natural flavor of the yams.
- This dish is a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a holiday feast or just a cozy family dinner.
Recipe
Candied yams are a classic Southern dish that combines the natural sweetness of yams with a rich, syrupy glaze. This recipe results in tender, caramelized yams that are perfect for holiday gatherings or comforting family dinners.
Ingredients:
- 4 large yams, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the yam slices in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the sugar mixture evenly over the yams.
- Carefully pour water into the baking dish, ensuring it does not directly wash away the sugar mixture.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the glaze is thickened.
- Let the dish cool slightly before serving.
Notes:
For a deeper caramel flavor, broil the yams for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.
Equipment:
9×13-inch baking dish, aluminum foil, mixing bowl
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 55-60 minutes
Cuisine:
Southern
Serving:
Serves 8
Nutrition
Candied yams are a sweet and savory dish often enjoyed during holiday meals. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of yams with a rich, buttery glaze.
| Nutrition | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 20g |
| Protein | 2g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing candied yams with roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or carrots, to add a savory balance to the sweetness. Grilled meats, such as chicken or pork, also work wonderfully, making the meal feel complete and satisfying. It’s all about finding flavors that complement the yams without overpowering their rich, caramelized taste.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are one of my favorite sides to pair with candied yams because they add a savory balance to the sweetness. I love tossing carrots, Brussels sprouts, or butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasting them until they’re caramelized and tender. The earthy flavors blend so well with the rich yams, creating a meal that feels comforting and complete. Sometimes, I’ll add a sprinkle of rosemary or thyme for extra depth. It’s an easy way to include veggies while keeping the meal hearty and flavorful. Plus, roasting brings out the natural sweetness in the vegetables, making them even more delicious.
Grilled Meats
When you’re firing up the grill for some juicy meats, it’s fun to think about how to round out the meal so everything works together. I love pairing smoky grilled steaks or chicken with creamy, sweet candied yams—the contrast is unbeatable. The caramelized edges of the meat play off the soft, buttery yams perfectly. If you’re serving ribs or pulled pork, the sweetness balances the savory spices. Don’t forget a crisp green salad or roasted veggies to keep things fresh. Trust me, once you try this combo, it’ll become your go-to for backyard BBQs. Just save room for seconds!
