Candied Yams Recipe: Sweet, Buttery, and Perfect for the Holidays

Candied yams are a beloved holiday dish, particularly in Southern and African-American culinary traditions. This sweet, buttery dish has graced the tables of countless families, especially during Thanksgiving. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know to create the perfect candied yams—from ingredient selection to cooking methods, and even some creative variations. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this guide will ensure your candied yams are the star of the holiday feast.

What Are Candied Yams?

Candied yams are a traditional dish made from yams or sweet potatoes that are slow-cooked in a syrupy mixture of sugar, butter, and spices until tender and caramelized. Despite their name, most recipes actually use sweet potatoes, which are often mislabeled as yams in the United States.

Historically, this dish has roots in soul food, where it became a staple in Southern cuisine. Its popularity has grown over the years, making it a must-have during the holidays.

When preparing your holiday feast, consider pairing your candied yams with another rich dish like Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Pasta, which offers a comforting and hearty complement.

Types of Candied Yams Recipes

There are several variations of candied yams, each with its unique charm. Below are some of the most popular methods:

Baked Candied Yams: The classic method involves baking the yams in an oven until tender, allowing the sugar and butter to create a caramelized glaze.
Stovetop Candied Yams: This method simmers the yams on the stovetop in a sweet syrup, resulting in a softer, more syrupy texture.
Candied Yams with Marshmallows: For those who enjoy an extra sweet touch, topping the yams with marshmallows and allowing them to melt and brown adds a delightful contrast in texture.
Vegan and Healthier Versions: Substituting traditional ingredients with healthier or vegan alternatives is increasingly popular. For example, vegan butter alternatives can be used in place of dairy butter.

Ingredients Breakdown

Creating the perfect candied yams starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Yams/Sweet Potatoes

Garnet Yams: These are often the preferred choice due to their deep orange color and naturally sweet flavor.
Sweet Potatoes: Often confused with yams, sweet potatoes are also commonly used and provide a similar, if slightly less intense, sweetness.

Sweeteners

Brown Sugar: This is the most common sweetener, adding a rich, molasses-like flavor.
White Sugar: Occasionally used for a lighter sweetness.
Maple Syrup: For a more complex flavor, maple syrup can be added to the mix.

Spices

Cinnamon: A must-have for that warm, holiday flavor.
Nutmeg: Adds a slightly nutty, aromatic quality.
Optional Spices: Some recipes include cloves, allspice, or even a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat.

Fats

Butter: Essential for richness, butter helps create that luxurious, glossy glaze.
Vegan Alternatives: Vegan butter can easily substitute traditional butter without compromising flavor.

Optional Toppings

Marshmallows: A traditional topping that melts into a sweet, gooey layer.
Pecans: Add a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the yams.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Candied Yams

Follow this detailed guide to make the perfect candied yams:

Preparation

Peeling and Slicing Yams:

Peel the yams or sweet potatoes and slice them into rounds or wedges, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
Aim for even slices to ensure they cook uniformly.

Preheating the Oven or Stovetop:

For baked yams, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
For stovetop yams, prepare a large, heavy-bottomed skillet.

Cooking the Syrup

Creating the Brown Sugar Glaze:

In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, and a dash of water or orange juice.
Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble.

Adding Spices and Butter:

Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and any optional spices to the syrup.
Stir in the butter until fully melted and incorporated.

Baking/Stovetop Cooking

Baking Method:

Arrange the yam slices in a single layer in a baking dish.
Pour the syrup mixture over the yams, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the yams are tender.
Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the syrup to thicken and the yams to caramelize.

Stovetop Method:

Place the yam slices in a skillet and pour the syrup mixture over them.
Cover and cook on low heat for 30-40 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the yams are tender and the syrup is thickened.

Adding Marshmallows or Other Toppings to Baked Candied Yams

If using marshmallows, add them during the last 10 minutes of baking or cooking. Allow them to melt and brown slightly.
For pecans or other toppings, sprinkle them on during the last few minutes of cooking to toast them lightly.

Final Touches

Checking for Doneness: The yams should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Letting It Rest: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving, as this helps the syrup to set.

Tips for Perfect Candied Yams

Choosing the Right Potatoes: Always select firm, unblemished yams or sweet potatoes for the best results.
Balancing Sweetness and Spices: Adjust the sugar and spices according to your taste preference. Remember, the sweetness should complement the natural flavor of the yams, not overpower it.
Preventing Yams from Becoming Too Mushy: Avoid overcooking, as this can cause the yams to lose their structure. Check frequently during the last few minutes of cooking.

Variations of Candied Yams

There are endless ways to customize candied yams to suit your taste:

Spicy Candied Yams: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a spicy twist.
Pecan-Crusted Candied Yams: Top with a mixture of chopped pecans and brown sugar for added crunch.
Vegan Candied Yams: Use vegan butter and coconut sugar for a plant-based version.
Less Sweet Versions: Reduce the amount of sugar or substitute with natural sweeteners like honey or agave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) For Candied Yams Recipe

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of yams?

Yes, in most cases, what are labeled as yams in stores are actually sweet potatoes. Either can be used for this recipe.

How do I store leftover candied yams?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can candied yams be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance, refrigerate, and then reheat in the oven before serving.

What is the best way to reheat candied yams?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the oven helps maintain the texture.

Serving Suggestions

Candied yams pair wonderfully with a variety of holiday dishes:

Serve alongside roasted turkey, ham, or pork loin.
Pair with savory sides like green bean casserole, stuffing, or cornbread.
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, for a pop of color.

Consider adding another dessert to your holiday menu, such as those found in this Gluten and Dairy-Free Desserts guide, which offers delicious options for those with dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, candied yams are a versatile and delicious side dish that can be tailored to your preferences. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your holiday table. Don’t be afraid to get creative and share your own twists on this classic recipe with friends and family.

By following this guide, you’ll be able to create the perfect candied yams that are sure to impress. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy the delicious results!