Description
Classic Southern Candied Yams feature tender sweet potatoes baked in a rich buttery glaze infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, and vanilla. This comforting side dish is a traditional favorite, perfect for holiday meals or family dinners, combining warm spices and caramelized sweetness for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 3 sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
Glaze
- 5 tbsp salted butter
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the yams evenly.
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes, rinse them thoroughly, and slice them into half-inch to one-inch thick circles. You can also cut the circles in half if needed to better fit your baking dish.
- Grease Baking Dish: Using some of the butter, grease a small baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Gradually incorporate the spices, tasting as you go to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Stir continuously for about 3 minutes until the mixture is fully combined and slightly thickened.
- Coat Potatoes: Place the sliced sweet potatoes in the prepared baking dish and pour the spiced butter and sugar glaze evenly over them. Cover the dish tightly with foil to retain moisture while baking.
- Bake Covered: Bake in the preheated oven at 400°F for 45 minutes. This allows the potatoes to become tender and the glaze to penetrate.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil, gently stir or rearrange the potatoes to coat them evenly, then increase the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C). Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes to caramelize the glaze and develop a slightly crispy top.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the candied yams cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a delicious side dish with your favorite mains.
Notes
- Using salted butter adds a nice balance of saltiness to the sweet glaze; however, unsalted butter can be used with a pinch of added salt if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar and spices to suit your taste preference for sweetness and warmth.
- Covering with foil during the first part of baking helps steam the yams, making them tender before caramelizing the glaze uncovered.
- For a richer texture, you can add a splash of orange juice or maple syrup to the glaze if desired.
- Make sure to slice the sweet potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
