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Candied Yams Recipe

A comforting and traditional side dish, these candied yams require minimal preparation and yield irresistibly tender, syrup-coated sweet potatoes. Perfect for festive gatherings or family dinners, they bring warmth and sweetness to any table.
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Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Candied Yams Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • ½ teaspoon grated nutmeg
  • ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 3 pounds sweet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter.
  • Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into ½-inch thick slices. Layer the slices evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  • Melt the butter with the heavy cream in a medium saucepan over medium heat until hot and fully liquified.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour the warm butter mixture into the sugar blend and stir until homogeneous.
  • Evenly distribute the sweetened mixture over the sweet potatoes, ensuring thorough coating. Cover the baking dish with foil.
  • Place in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and gently toss the potatoes to coat with the syrup that has formed.
  • Continue baking, uncovered, for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until the yams are tender and richly glazed. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly before peeling to remove residual dirt.
Uniform slicing helps ensure even cooking throughout.
A splash of orange juice (2 tablespoons) can brighten the syrup with a subtle tang.
Enhance the flavor profile by stirring in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract.
For a classic twist, top with mini marshmallows after stirring and return to bake uncovered; broil briefly at the end to achieve a toasted finish.