Description
This Best Ever Southern Candied Yams recipe is a classic, soul-warming side dish perfect for holidays or any cozy meal. Sweet potatoes are simmered in a rich, buttery brown sugar sauce infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, then baked to achieve a tender, caramelized finish bursting with deep Southern flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Yams and Sauce
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the yams after simmering.
- Combine Ingredients in Pot: In a large pot, combine the peeled and sliced sweet potatoes, brown sugar, unsalted butter, water, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. This mixture will create the flavorful sauce for the yams.
- Bring to Boil: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring the butter melts and sugars dissolve thoroughly.
- Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes. This allows the yams to begin softening and absorb the spices.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Carefully transfer the entire yam and sauce mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, basting occasionally with the sauce to keep the yams moist and enhance the caramelization process.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baked yams from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld perfectly.
Notes
- Peeling the sweet potatoes helps achieve a smoother, more tender texture, but leaving the skin on can add extra nutrients and a rustic feel if preferred.
- For a richer flavor, consider using browned butter instead of regular unsalted butter.
- If you like your yams sweeter or more spiced, adjust the brown sugar and cinnamon to your taste.
- Basting during baking is essential to keep the yams moist and encourage a glossy, caramelized coating.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats and adds a delightful contrast to savory holiday plates.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Keywords: Southern candied yams, candied sweet potatoes, holiday side dish, sweet potato recipe, baked yams
