These brown sugar candied yams are a warm and comforting side dish that everyone loves! With a sweet glaze made from brown sugar and butter, they are simply irresistible.
Honestly, I can’t resist sneaking a few bites while they bake. They smell so good, it feels like a warm hug for your tummy! 😄 Serve them up at dinner, and watch them disappear!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yams or Sweet Potatoes: Both can be used. Yams are starchier and less sweet, while sweet potatoes add more natural sweetness. If you can’t find either, try using butternut squash for a different twist!
Brown Sugar: This is what creates that wonderful caramel flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar or maple syrup, but keep in mind this may change the final taste and texture a bit.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. Alternatively, use coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Just be aware that it may alter the flavor slightly.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices give warmth to the dish. If you’re out of nutmeg, a pinch of allspice can work too. You could also use pumpkin pie spice if you have it on hand!
How Do I Get My Yams to Cook Perfectly?
Making sure your yams are tender and the sauce is thick is crucial for the best results. Here’s how to ensure perfect cooking:
- Slice yams evenly to allow them to cook uniformly. Aim for 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Covering them with foil for part of the baking time traps steam and helps them soften.
- Removing the foil allows the sauce to thicken and glaze the yams nicely. Watch closely in the final minutes to avoid burning!
Brown Sugar Candied Yams
Ingredients:
- 4 large yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (half a stick)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
- Optional: pinch of ground cloves or ginger for extra warmth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 50-60 minutes of baking time. In total, you can whip these up in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including baking and cooling. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a nice, even bake for your yams.
2. Prepare the Yams
Peel the yams (or sweet potatoes) and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Aim for even slices to ensure they cook uniformly. Place the slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
3. Make the Brown Sugar Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the packed brown sugar, unsalted butter, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and water. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until the butter has melted, and the mixture is smooth and bubbling. This should take just a few minutes.
4. Combine the Sauce with Yams
Once the sauce is bubbling nicely, remove it from the heat, and if you’re using it, stir in the vanilla extract. Now, pour this sweet brown sugar sauce evenly over the sliced yams in your baking dish, ensuring every piece gets a nice coating.
5. Bake the Yams
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the yams are tender and the sauce has thickened and turned syrupy.
6. Optional Caramelization
If you want a slightly caramelized top, switch your oven to broil for 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
7. Let it Cool
Once out of the oven, let your sweet yams cool for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken even more. This also makes them easier to serve.
Enjoy your warm, sweet, and gooey Brown Sugar Candied Yams as a delightful side that everyone will love!
Can I Use Canned Yams for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use canned yams if you’re in a pinch! Drain them thoroughly and reduce the baking time since they are already cooked. Just bake for about 15-20 minutes to warm them up and allow the sauce to coat them.
Can I Make These Candied Yams Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. All other ingredients remain the same, and you’ll still enjoy the same delicious flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the yams and the brown sugar sauce ahead of time. Just layer them in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake them straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.