The sweet aroma of Candied Yams wafting through the house has a way of transporting me back to cherished family gatherings. This classic holiday side dish, with its sweet potatoes enveloped in a rich, syrupy glaze, combines simplicity and indulgence effortlessly. Not only are these Candied Yams a delightful treat that can brighten up any table, but they’re also gluten-free, allowing everyone to savor their irresistible flavors without worry. The melt-in-your-mouth texture paired with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg makes them a comfort food favorite that will have your guests going back for seconds (and thirds!). So, are you ready to create a dish that will have everyone raving this holiday season?

Why Are Candied Yams So Irresistible?

Simplicity, These Candied Yams are not just easy to make, but they require minimal prep time, letting you focus on enjoying the festivities.
Unforgettable Flavor, The combination of sweet potatoes and a luscious glaze creates a deliciously rich experience that your guests will remember.
Versatility, Perfect as a side dish for roasted meats or as a sweet addition to your holiday buffet, these yams fit effortlessly into any meal.
Gluten-Free Goodness, Being gluten-free means everyone can indulge without worry, making these yams a crowd-pleaser for all dietary needs.
Nostalgic Aroma, The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that screams comfort and celebration.
Unique Presentation, Serve these yams in a beautiful dish, and watch them steal the spotlight at your holiday table. For more delightful holiday side dishes, don’t forget to check out our classic roasted vegetables.

Candied Yams Ingredients

• Discover the magic of Candied Yams with these essential ingredients!

For the Yams

  • Sweet Potatoes – The star of the dish that provides natural sweetness and texture; yams can be substituted for a different flavor.
  • Butter – Adds richness and depth; for a dairy-free option, use vegan butter.

For the Glaze

  • Dark Brown Sugar – Creates a deep molasses flavor that enhances sweetness; feel free to substitute with light brown sugar for a milder taste.
  • Granulated White Sugar – Essential for achieving the perfect glaze consistency and extra sweetness.
  • Cinnamon – Brings in warm, comforting spice; you can replace it with nutmeg if you’re after a different aromatic twist.
  • Nutmeg – Complements cinnamon beautifully; omit if you prefer a simpler spice blend.
  • Salt – A small but mighty ingredient that balances the overall sweetness; be sure not to skip it!
  • Vanilla Extract – Offers a sweet elegance and depth to the flavor; almond extract can be a lovely substitute.
  • Fresh Orange Juice – Adds a citrusy brightness and acidity; in a pinch, lemon juice can be used as a swap.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candied Yams

Step 1: Prep Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by washing and peeling about three medium sweet potatoes, ensuring to remove any blemishes. Slice them into ½-inch rounds for even cooking. As you lay the slices in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, take a moment to admire their vibrant orange color—this will be the heart of your delicious Candied Yams.

Step 2: Make Glaze
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of butter until it starts to foam and turn golden brown, releasing a nutty aroma. Carefully stir in ¾ cup of dark brown sugar, ¼ cup of granulated white sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, then remove it from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ¼ cup of fresh orange juice for extra zing.

Step 3: Combine and Bake
Pour the rich glaze over the sweet potato slices, ensuring they are evenly coated without stirring too much. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the moisture, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to soften and absorb the delightful flavors of the glaze as it starts to bubble.

Step 4: Redistribute Glaze
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil, releasing the steam. Gently stir the sweet potatoes to ensure that the glaze coats each piece evenly. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 30 minutes. The Candied Yams should become fork-tender and beautifully caramelized, with a glossy surface that invites you to dig in.

Step 5: Finish Glaze (Optional)
Once the sweet potatoes are perfectly tender, transfer them to a serving dish, allowing any remaining glaze in the baking dish to cool slightly. If desired, pour the leftover glaze into the saucepan and simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes to thicken. Pour this luscious glaze back over the yams for an irresistible final touch before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Candied Yams are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can peel and slice the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in a bowl of water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, you can prepare the glaze (butter, sugars, and spices) and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the sweet potatoes and glaze in your baking dish and follow the instructions, baking them for a total of 60 minutes. This allows you to enjoy delicious, homemade Candied Yams with minimal effort on the day of your gathering, ensuring a stress-free holiday experience!

What to Serve with Candied Yams

The harmony of flavors in a holiday meal comes alive when you know what accompaniments to choose for your Candied Yams.

  • Roast Turkey: With its savory and succulent flavors, turkey creates a wholesome balance against the sweetness of the yams. The combination is the stuff of festive feasts.

  • Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans paired with almond slivers provide a refreshing contrast in texture and flavor, brightening up the plate beautifully.

  • Cornbread: The slight sweetness of cornbread beautifully complements the yumminess of Candied Yams. It’s like a warm hug from mom at the dinner table!

  • Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side is a perfect foil to the richness of the yams, adding a refreshing bite that cuts through the sweetness.

  • Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness mirrors that of the yams, while their vibrant color adds visual appeal to your holiday spread.

  • Apple Cider: A glass of crisp apple cider refreshes the palate and enhances the warm flavors of your meal, creating a cohesive experience.

For a sweeter pairing, consider finishing off with a slice of Pumpkin Pie. The spices in both dishes unify the meal, ensuring your holiday gathering lingers fondly in the hearts of your loved ones.

Expert Tips for Candied Yams

  • Select Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture; avoid those with soft spots or blemishes.

  • Precise Glaze Timing: For the perfect sweetness, don’t rush the glaze-making process. Allow the sugars to dissolve completely for a glossy finish.

  • Gentle Stirring: When redistributing the glaze, stir gently to avoid breaking up the delicate sweet potato slices; this ensures they remain intact.

  • Taste Test: Before pouring the glaze over the yams, taste it! Adjust sweetness or add a pinch more salt if it’s too sweet for your palate.

  • Covering for Initial Bake: Covering the dish is crucial for the first 30 minutes. It traps moisture and helps soften the yams, contributing to their melt-in-your-mouth quality.

  • Avoid Soggy Texture: To prevent overly mushy yams when reheating leftovers, reheat gently instead of in the microwave to maintain their structure.

Candied Yams Variations to Explore

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these Candied Yams to suit your taste and dietary needs!

  • Dairy-Free: Swap butter for vegan butter to create a deliciously rich glaze that everyone can enjoy without compromising flavor.

  • Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts! This gives the dish a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet, soft yams.

  • Fragrant Citrus: Substitute fresh orange juice with grapefruit juice for a subtly tangy twist that brightens the sweetness and adds complexity.

  • Spicy Kick: Introduce a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness perfectly; it creates a delightful balance.

  • Herb-Infused: Infuse your glaze with a touch of rosemary or thyme. This herbal note adds a unique depth that enhances the overall flavor profile.

  • Fruit Medley: Toss in dried cranberries or golden raisins during the glazing process for a pop of color and sweet-tart flavor that elevates the dish.

  • Maple Twist: Use pure maple syrup instead of some sugars for a deeper, earthy sweetness that captures the essence of fall.

  • Caramelized Finish: For an extraordinary finish, broil the Candied Yams for 1-2 minutes after baking to create a beautiful, caramelized crust.

These variations ensure your Candied Yams are not just a recipe but a canvas for culinary creativity! If you’re looking for more comforting holiday ideas, check out our classic roasted vegetables that pair perfectly with these yams.

How to Store and Freeze Candied Yams

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. This will help maintain the flavor and texture of your sweet Candied Yams.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the yams in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stovetop or in the oven. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the texture mushy.

Serving Freshness: For the best taste, enjoy your Candied Yams fresh. If reheating, ensure the glaze is warm and bubbly to revive that delightful sweetness.

Candied Yams Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe sweet potatoes for Candied Yams?
Absolutely! When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm, smooth-skinned ones, avoiding any with soft spots, dark blemishes, or sprouting. A vibrant orange color indicates freshness and optimal sweetness.

How should I store leftovers from my Candied Yams?
To keep those delicious flavors intact, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Just make sure to let the yams cool before sealing them; this prevents moisture build-up that could compromise texture.

Can I freeze my Candied Yams? How?
Definitely! To freeze your Candied Yams, allow them to cool completely, then layer them in an airtight, freezer-safe container, separating each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.

What can I do if my glaze is too thin?
Very! If you find that your glaze is thinner than desired, simply return it to the stovetop and simmer it over low heat for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens up. This process enhances the flavors as well, ensuring a richer experience.

Are Candied Yams safe for pets?
While the ingredients of Candied Yams are generally safe for most pets in small amounts, it’s best to avoid sharing them. Ingredients like sugar and butter may upset their stomachs, so stick to pet-friendly treats to keep your furry friends happy!

Can I make Candied Yams healthier?
Absolutely! You can make a few adjustments for a healthier version of Candied Yams. Use less sugar by reducing the amount of dark brown and white sugar, or substitute with alternatives like maple syrup or honey. Additionally, consider using coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option that adds a hint of tropical flavor!

Candied Yams

Irresistibly Sweet Candied Yams for Your Holiday Table

These Candied Yams are a delightful gluten-free holiday side dish that combines sweet potatoes, cinnamon, and nutmeg for an irresistible flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Yams
  • 3 medium Sweet Potatoes Washed, peeled, and sliced into ½-inch rounds.
  • ½ cup Butter Can substitute with vegan butter.
For the Glaze
  • ¾ cup Dark Brown Sugar Can substitute with light brown sugar.
  • ¼ cup Granulated White Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Can replace with nutmeg.
  • ½ teaspoon Nutmeg Optional.
  • 1 pinch Salt Balances sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Almond extract is a substitute.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Orange Juice Lemon juice can be used as a swap.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Saucepan
  • Aluminum Foil

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Candied Yams
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then slice them into ½-inch rounds.
  2. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown. Stir in dark brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
  3. Pour the glaze over the sweet potato slices and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
  4. Remove the foil and stir the sweet potatoes gently. Bake uncovered for another 30 minutes.
  5. Optional: Simmer remaining glaze for 5 minutes, then pour it over the yams before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 1gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 15000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For the best texture, reheat gently and avoid the microwave.

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