Candied Yams Recipe: Candied yams are a classic, sweet, and spiced dish that brings warmth to the table, especially around the holidays. Known for their tender texture and deliciously caramelized flavor, candied yams are a perfect side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time you’re looking for something cozy and comforting. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to make the most delicious candied yams, with easy steps to achieve that classic, gooey perfection.
What Are Candied Yams?
Candied yams are a dish made by coating yams or sweet potatoes in a rich, spiced syrup made from ingredients like brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon, then baking them until soft and caramelized. Though “yams” is often used to refer to sweet potatoes in North America, true yams are a different tuber, typically starchier and less sweet. For this recipe, you can use sweet potatoes, which are widely available and provide the perfect flavor and texture.
Ingredients Needed
To make the perfect candied yams, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Yams or sweet potatoes – 4-5 medium-sized
- Butter – 4 tablespoons (unsalted is ideal)
- Brown sugar – 1 cup (light or dark)
- Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
- Nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – a pinch
- Optional: Maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness, orange zest for a citrusy touch
You can substitute ingredients based on your taste or dietary needs. For instance, coconut oil can be used instead of butter, and maple syrup instead of sugar for a refined sugar-free version.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Here’s a list of the essential kitchen tools to make candied yams:
- Peeler
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Medium saucepan for parboiling
- Mixing bowl for the sauce
- Baking dish (preferably glass or ceramic for even baking)
- Foil for covering during baking
Optional tools include a mandoline slicer for perfectly even slices and a basting brush to coat the yams with sauce.
Step-by-Step Candied Yams Recipe
Let’s get started! Here’s the full process for preparing delicious, homemade candied yams. This recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish, with only 15 minutes of active preparation.
Step 1: Preparing the Yams
Begin by preparing your yams or sweet potatoes. Peel them thoroughly to remove any tough skin, then slice them into rounds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Uniform thickness is important so they cook evenly. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can cube them instead.
Tips:
- Choose firm, evenly shaped yams or sweet potatoes for easier peeling and slicing.
- Place peeled yams in cold water to prevent browning as you work through all of them.
Step 2: Parboiling the Yams
Parboiling softens the yams slightly, ensuring they bake to a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture without drying out. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add the yam slices and cook for about 5-7 minutes. They should be just beginning to soften but still firm enough to hold their shape.
Tips:
- Avoid over-boiling, as this will make the yams mushy during baking.
- Drain immediately and let the yams cool briefly before moving to the next step.
Step 3: Preparing the Candied Sauce
While the yams cool, prepare the sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, creating a thick, caramel-like consistency.
Optional Ingredients:
- Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to deepen the sweetness.
- For a tangy twist, include a teaspoon of orange zest or a splash of orange juice.
Step 4: Coating the Yams in Sauce
Place the parboiled yams in a large mixing bowl or directly into your baking dish. Pour the sauce over the yams, gently tossing to coat them evenly. Ensure each piece is thoroughly covered to achieve that delicious, caramelized flavor throughout.
Tips:
- For a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar slightly or skip the maple syrup.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking dish; a single layer ensures even caramelization.
Step 5: Baking the Yams
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. After that, remove the foil, baste the yams with the sauce, and bake uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the yams are tender and caramelized.
Tips:
- Check for doneness by piercing a yam slice with a fork—it should slide in easily.
- For a slightly crispier texture, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) during the last 5-10 minutes.
Step 6: Checking for Doneness
Once you’ve removed the foil and allowed the yams to finish baking uncovered, it’s time to check if they’re perfectly candied. The yams should be soft, tender, and have a beautiful, shiny caramelized coating. Insert a fork into a slice—if it glides through effortlessly, your yams are ready. The sauce should be thick and sticky, coating each slice without being too runny.
Tips:
- If the sauce is still a bit thin, you can return the dish to the oven for another 5-10 minutes. This will help the sauce reduce further and become stickier.
- Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the yams and make the sugar harden too much.
Optional Topping Ideas
For a fun twist, you can add toppings to give the dish even more flavor and texture. Here are a few classic and creative options:
- Marshmallows: Sprinkle mini marshmallows over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking, then broil for a golden, toasted finish.
- Pecans: Add chopped pecans on top before the final bake to add a nutty crunch that complements the sweetness.
- Coconut Flakes: Unsweetened coconut flakes bring a tropical hint and extra texture.
- Crumbled Graham Crackers: For an extra layer of crunch, sprinkle crumbled graham crackers on top before serving.
These toppings not only enhance the flavor but also add a festive touch, making the dish even more appealing for holiday gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Candied yams are best served warm and make a wonderful addition to any meal, especially holiday spreads. Here are some ideas for pairing and presenting them:
- Perfect Pairings: Candied yams pair well with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or other holiday main dishes. The sweetness also complements savory items like green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, and stuffing.
- Individual Servings: For a more elegant presentation, divide the yams into ramekins before baking and top each with a marshmallow or pecan.
- As a Dessert Alternative: Candied yams are so sweet and flavorful that they can easily double as a dessert option.
Tips for Storing and Reheating Candied Yams
If you have leftovers, you can store candied yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, you have a couple of options:
- Oven: Place the yams in a baking dish, cover with foil, and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps retain their texture and keeps the yams from drying out.
- Microwave: For a quicker option, place a serving of yams in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short 30-second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the sugar harden.
For long-term storage, you can freeze candied yams for up to 2 months. Let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven to enjoy again.
FAQs about Candied Yams Recipe
1. What are candied yams?
Candied yams are sweet potatoes cooked with sugar, butter, and spices, giving them a caramelized glaze. This dish is a popular side for holiday meals, particularly in the United States.
2. What ingredients do I need to make candied yams?
To make candied yams, you’ll need sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Some recipes also include a dash of vanilla or maple syrup for extra flavor.
3. Can I make candied yams ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare candied yams a day or two in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, and when ready to serve, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until they’re warmed through.
4. Are candied yams the same as sweet potatoes?
While often called “yams” in recipes, most candied yam dishes are actually made with sweet potatoes. True yams are different and are not commonly used in the United States.
5. Can I use canned yams for this recipe?
Yes, canned yams are a convenient option and can be used in place of fresh sweet potatoes. Just be sure to drain them well before adding them to the recipe.
6. How do I prevent candied yams from becoming too mushy?
To keep your candied yams from becoming too soft, avoid overcooking. Bake or cook them just until they’re tender but still hold their shape, and use medium heat when simmering with the glaze.
7. Can I add marshmallows to candied yams?
Yes! For a classic twist, top the yams with marshmallows in the last few minutes of baking. Broil briefly to toast them for a gooey, golden topping.
Conclusion
Candied yams are a time-honored recipe that brings both flavor and nostalgia to the table, especially during festive gatherings. With their caramelized sweetness, buttery texture, and warming spices, candied yams have become a must-have dish for holiday meals. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures you can prepare delicious candied yams that everyone will love, whether it’s your first time making them or you’re a seasoned cook. So roll up your sleeves and try this recipe—your family and friends will thank you!
References
For those interested in exploring more about candied yams and enhancing their culinary knowledge, here are some reputable sources to consider. These references provide valuable insights, tips, and variations on making candied yams, ensuring that you have access to well-rounded and reliable information. Click through to each link for further reading and to validate the techniques and ingredients shared in this recipe:
- Allrecipes – Find traditional and creative twists on candied yam recipes, along with user reviews and ratings.
- Food Network – Offers a selection of chef-curated candied yam recipes, with expert advice on perfecting texture and flavor.
- Bon Appétit – Explore unique variations on the classic candied yams, adding new ingredients or cooking methods to elevate the dish.
- The Kitchn – Practical tips and step-by-step guides to help you master candied yams with ease.
These resources can provide a deeper understanding of candied yams and inspire you to personalize the recipe to suit your taste.
