Introduction
Candied Yams are a timeless comfort-food side dish made with tender sweet potato slices baked in a rich, buttery brown sugar syrup. Flavored with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this dish is sweet, glossy, and perfect for holidays or cozy family meals.
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes (yams), peeled and sliced
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup water or orange juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Peel and slice sweet potatoes into even rounds and place them in a greased baking dish.
2. Make the Syrup
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, water (or orange juice), cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and slightly thick.
3. Assemble
Pour the syrup evenly over the sweet potatoes, making sure all slices are coated.
4. Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes, basting occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender and glazed.
Tips for Best Results
- Slice sweet potatoes evenly for uniform cooking
- Baste during baking for extra shine and flavor
- For deeper caramelization, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and bake, then reheat before serving.
Can I add marshmallows?
Yes, add marshmallows during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Are yams and sweet potatoes the same?
In many recipes, “yams” actually refer to orange-fleshed sweet potatoes.
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