Growing up, Thanksgiving just wasn’t Thanksgiving without my grandma’s famous Candied Yams Recipe. The sweet, cinnamon-y aroma would fill the entire house, drawing everyone to the kitchen in anticipation. I can still picture the bubbling golden yams, caramelized to perfection, waiting to be devoured. It was a dish that embodied the cozy, comforting essence of the holidays, and I always looked forward to that first irresistible bite.
Over the years, I’ve tried many variations of candied yams, but none quite compare to Grandma’s recipe. There’s just something special about the way the butter, brown sugar, and spices meld together to create a flavor that’s both familiar and extraordinary. It’s a dish that never fails to bring a smile to my face and transport me back to those cherished family gatherings.
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Why This Candied Yams Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Candied Yams Recipe
When it comes to Candied Yams Recipe, the key is in the balance of sweet and spice. The brown sugar provides a rich, caramelized sweetness that’s perfectly complemented by the warming cinnamon and nutmeg. But the real secret lies in the technique – gently simmering the yams in the buttery, spiced syrup until they’re tender and infused with flavor. This slow-cooked method ensures that every bite is bursting with that signature candied sweetness.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes: The foundation of this dish, sweet potatoes provide a naturally sweet and creamy base that’s essential for the candied texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: This rich, velvety fat helps to create the luscious sauce and caramelized coating on the yams.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: The brown sugar is what gives the Candied Yams Recipe its signature gooey, caramelized sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon is a classic pairing with sweet potatoes, adding a warm, comforting spice that rounds out the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A touch of nutmeg enhances the depth of flavor, providing a subtle, aromatic note.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A small amount of salt helps to balance the sweetness and bring out the other flavors.
Step-by-Step Candied Yams Recipe Instructions
Preparing Your Candied Yams Recipe
Prep time for this Candied Yams Recipe is just 15 minutes, and the total cooking time is 35 minutes, for a total of 50 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven, a cutting board, and a sharp knife to get started.
1- Begin by peeling and cutting the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. This bite-sized shape will ensure even cooking and make it easy to coat the yams in the delicious sauce.
2- In your large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved and the spices are fragrant.
3- Carefully add the cubed sweet potatoes to the pot, making sure they’re evenly coated in the buttery, spiced sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the yams cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and the sauce has thickened.
4- The yams should now be glazed in a rich, caramelized coating, with the cubes tender but still holding their shape. The kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sweet potatoes.
5- Remove the pot from the heat and let the Candied Yams cool for a few minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken up even more, creating a perfect glossy finish.
6- Transfer the Candied Yams to a serving dish and get ready to enjoy this delectable side dish. It’s sure to be the star of your holiday spread!
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t be tempted to cut the sweet potatoes too small – the 1-inch cubes will ensure they hold their shape and texture as they cook.
- Resist the urge to stir the yams constantly – let them simmer gently to develop that signature candied coating.
- Keep a close eye on the cooking time to avoid over-softening the yams. They should be tender but still hold their structure.
- For an extra decadent touch, try topping the Candied Yams with chopped pecans or a sprinkle of orange zest before serving.
Serving and Storing Your Candied Yams Recipe
Perfect Pairings for Candied Yams Recipe
This Candied Yams Recipe is the perfect accompaniment to your holiday feast, serving 8 generously. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a juicy prime rib. For a complete meal, round it out with some green beans almondine, homemade dinner rolls, and a crisp green salad. And don’t forget the cranberry sauce – the tartness helps to cut through the sweetness of the yams.
For beverages, a rich, full-bodied red wine or a smooth bourbon would be delightful. Or, for a more family-friendly option, try serving it with a pitcher of hot apple cider or mulled wine.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Candied Yams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply transfer the yams to a baking dish, cover, and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the entire dish up to 2 days in advance. Just follow the recipe instructions up to the final step, then let the yams cool completely before transferring to a storage container. When ready to serve, reheat as directed above.
Candied Yams also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Candied Yams Recipe
Creative Candied Yams Recipe Variations
While the classic Candied Yams Recipe is a tried-and-true favorite, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try adding a splash of orange juice or a teaspoon of orange zest for a bright, citrusy twist. For a touch of crunch, top the yams with a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts. You can also experiment with different spice blends, such as adding a pinch of ginger or a dash of cloves.
In the fall, consider roasting the yams with a medley of seasonal vegetables, like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and red onions. And for a festive holiday touch, garnish the finished dish with fresh rosemary or thyme.
Making Candied Yams Recipe Diet-Friendly
For a gluten-free version of this Candied Yams Recipe, simply use a gluten-free brown sugar and substitute cornstarch or arrowroot powder for any thickening needs.
To make a vegan-friendly recipe, replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. You can also use maple syrup or coconut sugar in place of the brown sugar.
For a low-carb adaptation, swap the sweet potatoes for roasted cauliflower or butternut squash. You can still achieve a similar candied texture by tossing the vegetables in the buttery, spiced sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different types of sweet potatoes for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While the classic orange-fleshed sweet potatoes work wonderfully, you can also experiment with purple or white-fleshed varieties. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of potato.
Q: How long does it take to prepare and cook the Candied Yams Recipe?
A: The total time for this recipe is 50 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make Candied Yams Recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, this dish can be made up to 2 days in advance. Simply follow the recipe, let the yams cool completely, then store them in the refrigerator until ready to reheat and serve.
Q: How many servings does this Candied Yams Recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 8 servings, making it a perfect side dish for a holiday gathering or family dinner.
Q: What if my Candied Yams come out too soft or mushy?
A: If the yams become overly soft during cooking, try simmering them a bit longer to allow the sauce to thicken and the texture to firm up. You can also reduce the liquid content by using less butter or brown sugar.
Conclusion
Candied Yams Recipe is a true Thanksgiving classic that deserves a spot on your holiday table. With its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and buttery flavors, it’s a dish that’s sure to delight your family and friends.
What I love most about this recipe is how it brings back such warm, cherished memories of my grandma’s cooking. It’s a recipe that’s steeped in tradition, yet still manages to feel fresh and exciting with each new iteration.
I encourage you to give this Candied Yams Recipe a try – I know it will become a new holiday staple in your home. And don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social media! I can’t wait to see how your Candied Yams turn out.
