Brown Sugar Candied Yams are a sweet and comforting dish perfect for any gathering. These tender yams are coated in rich brown sugar and butter, making them absolutely delicious!
Every time I make these, my family can’t resist sneaking bites before they even hit the table! 😄 I love serving them as a side, and they pair so well with holiday meals or cozy dinners.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yams/Sweet Potatoes: Both yams and sweet potatoes work well. If you can’t find yams, opt for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes—they’re sweet and creamy. Regular potatoes won’t give you the same flavor!
Brown Sugar: Using dark brown sugar gives extra depth with its molasses flavor. If you only have light brown sugar, that works too! For a healthier option, try coconut sugar; it adds a similar sweetness.
Unsalted Butter: I suggest unsalted for better control over salt levels. If you’re dairy-free, use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Both will still lend that rich flavor.
Spices: Ground cinnamon and nutmeg are staples here, but you can skip the nutmeg if you don’t have it. A pinch of allspice can work as a substitute, too. Experiment with flavor based on your taste!
How Do I Make the Yams Super Tender and Flavorful?
Getting the yams perfectly tender is all about cooking them the right way. Here’s how to do it!
- Even slicing is key: 1/2-inch rounds allow for uniform cooking.
- Make a comforting syrup: Melt butter, dissolve the sugar, and mix in water and vanilla for a nice glaze.
- Cover during initial baking: This keeps moisture in, helping the yams steam and soften during the first 30-35 minutes.
- Uncover and baste: After the initial bake, remove the foil and baste the yams in the syrup. This sticky glaze will thicken and caramelize, enhancing that delightful flavor.
Following these steps will help you achieve incredible candied yams that everyone will love! Enjoy!
Brown Sugar Candied Yams
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Candied Yams:
- 4 large yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 50-60 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes before these sweet yams are ready to serve. Just enough time to get the perfect candied texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, peel the yams and slice them into 1/2-inch rounds. This thickness is important, so they cook evenly and become tender!
2. Make the Sweet Syrup:
In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, unsalted butter, water, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Turn the heat to medium and stir gently until the butter is melted, and the mixture is smooth. This syrup will be the magic that coats and caramelizes your yams!
3. Assemble the Dish:
Take a baking dish and arrange the sliced yams in a single layer. If they overlap slightly, that’s okay! Pour the delicious brown sugar syrup over the yams, ensuring they’re all coated evenly. A gentle toss or stir will help.
4. Bake Covered:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until you can easily pierce the yams with a fork. This step steams them to tenderness!
5. Uncover and Caramelize:
Remove the foil after the initial baking time. Carefully baste the yams with the syrup from the pan to keep them moist. Continue baking uncovered for another 10-15 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thicken and the edges start to caramelize—so delicious!
6. Final Touches:
Once the yams are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This allows the syrup to thicken a bit more. If you wish, sprinkle fresh thyme sprigs on top for a lovely touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm, and watch as everyone digs into these delightful brown sugar candied yams! They’re the perfect side dish to bring sweetness to any meal.
Enjoy this comforting and delicious recipe that brings joy to your table! 🎉
Can I Use Canned Yams Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned yams! Just make sure to drain them well before using. Since they are already cooked, reduce your baking time to about 20–25 minutes to heat through and caramelize the syrup.
What’s a Good Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can substitute with white sugar combined with a bit of molasses. Use 1 cup of white sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon of molasses for a similar flavor and color. Alternatively, coconut sugar can be a great substitute!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make the candied yams vegan, simply swap out the unsalted butter for a plant-based butter or coconut oil. The other ingredients, like brown sugar, are typically vegan, but always check labels if you’re unsure.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water if needed to prevent drying out.
