When I first attempted to make Southern Candied Yams, I remember burning the sugar mixture and ending up with a sticky mess. It taught me the importance of patience and the right technique, and now, this dish has become a beloved staple at family gatherings. These yams, infused with warm spices and sweetened to perfection, are not just a side; they’re a comforting reminder of home.
Southern Candied Yams are special because they offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The velvety sweet potatoes mixed with the rich, syrupy sauce creates a dish that’s both indulgent and heartwarming. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare, which is a definite win for busy cooks!
Why you’ll love Southern Candied Yams
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and takes about an hour from start to finish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg delivers a warm, cozy flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- Budget-Friendly: Sweet potatoes are economical and can transform into a delicious dish without breaking the bank.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep them in advance, making serving a breeze when guests arrive.
- Versatile Pairing: These yams go beautifully with a variety of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian options.
Ingredients
- 3 sweet potatoes (about 1.5lbs)
- 5 tbsp salted Butter (see notes)
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- ¼ tsp Nutmeg
- ½ c Brown sugar
- ¼ c granulated sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
Ingredient notes & substitutions:
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the salted butter with a plant-based alternative. For a deeper flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of regular brown sugar and don’t shy away from experimenting with additional spices like cloves or ginger!
How to make Southern Candied Yams
Making Southern Candied Yams is a joy, and here’s how to do it in a few simple steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- Peel the sweet potatoes, rinse them off, and cut them into ½ inch to 1 inch thick circles. You can halve the circles as needed to fit your baking dish.
- Grease a small baking dish with butter.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the spices and taste the mixture until it’s spiced to your liking. Stir to combine for about 3 minutes.
- Pour the sugar mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes and cover with foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and gently mix the potatoes. Increase the oven temperature to 425 degrees and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.
- Once done, take them out of the oven, let cool slightly, and serve with your favorite mains and sides. Enjoy!
Pro Tip: To ensure a rich, caramelized flavor, make sure to taste the sugar mixture before pouring it over the sweet potatoes. Adjust the spices to suit your palate!
How to serve Southern Candied Yams
Southern Candied Yams shine on any table! They pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, glazed ham, or a hearty vegetarian casserole. For a delightful presentation, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped pecans or a sprinkling of cinnamon before serving, adding both texture and flavor.
How to store Southern Candied Yams
If you have leftovers (which is rarely the case at my house), simply transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a 350-degree oven until heated through.
Tips & troubleshooting
- If they’re dry: Make sure to cover the dish with foil for the majority of the baking time and keep an eye on them as they are prone to drying out.
- If the flavor is bland: Always taste the sugar mixture before pouring it over the potatoes. You can add more cinnamon or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- For soggy yams: Ensure you’re not overcooking them by keeping an eye on the texture after removing the foil. This will help them caramelize rather than steam.
- If they burn on top: Adjust the oven temperature to avoid too high of a setting. If necessary, cover with foil during the last few minutes to prevent further browning.
Variations
- Add a splash of citrus: Consider adding orange or lemon juice along with the spices for a fresh twist.
- Nutty goodness: Stir in some chopped pecans or walnuts for additional texture and nuttiness.
- Spicy kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a surprising depth of flavor.
- Maple syrup: Substitute some of the sugars with maple syrup for a delightful, earthy sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes?
While sweet potatoes are traditional, you can use other varieties like butternut squash for a unique flavor. Just note that cooking times may vary.
Can I freeze Southern Candied Yams?
Yes, you can freeze them after baking. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven for best results.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can use more granulated sugar instead, but the flavor will be less rich. You can also create your own brown sugar by mixing granulated sugar with a little molasses.
How long do leftovers last?
Stored properly, they will remain delicious for about 3 days in the fridge.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up until baking, then cover and refrigerate. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
Southern Candied Yams
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- Peel the sweet potatoes, rinse them off, and cut them into ½ inch to 1 inch thick circles.
- Grease a small baking dish with butter.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract, stirring for about 3 minutes until combined.
- Pour the sugar mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes and cover with foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and gently mix the potatoes. Increase the oven temperature to 425 degrees and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.
- Once done, take them out of the oven, let cool slightly, and serve.