Candied Yams with Warm Spices

Candied Yams with Warm Spices bring the magic of the holidays to your table. This classic recipe combines tender sweet potatoes with a buttery glaze rich in brown sugar and aromatic spices. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion, it’s a simple yet indulgent addition to your menu.

Ingredients

• Sweet Potatoes: 6 medium-sized, peeled and sliced into ¼ - ½ inch pieces for consistent cooking.
• Butter: 8 tablespoons of salted butter for a rich and smooth glaze.
• Dark Brown Sugar: 1 cup for deep caramelized sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup to enhance sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon for warm, earthy spice.
• Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon for subtle nutty undertones.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon to elevate the flavor profile.
• Salt: A pinch to balance sweetness.

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.

Step 2:

Wash, peel, and slice sweet potatoes. Arrange in the casserole dish.

Step 3:

Prepare the glaze by melting butter and combining it with sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Simmer and stir until smooth, then mix in vanilla extract.

Step 4:

Pour the glaze over sweet potatoes and bake covered for 30 minutes.

Step 5:

Stir, re-cover, and bake for 25 minutes. Bake uncovered for 10 minutes.

Step 6:

Cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve warm alongside turkey, ham, or roasted vegetables.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Helpful Notes

• For extra crunch, top with toasted pecans before the final bake.
• Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for brown sugar for a unique flavor twist.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Anne Burrell suggests roasting sweet potatoes first to intensify their natural sweetness.
• Chef Michael Symon recommends adding a splash of orange juice to the glaze for a citrusy kick.

How to Elevate Your Candied Yams

Make your candied yams a showstopper by incorporating a crunchy pecan topping or a drizzle of bourbon-infused glaze. These additions provide extra layers of flavor and texture, turning a simple side dish into a star.

What to Pair with Candied Yams

Candied yams shine alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a vibrant green bean casserole. The sweet and savory contrast makes them a versatile accompaniment to any main course.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sweeteners?

Yes, honey or maple syrup can replace brown sugar for a natural sweetener option.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Replace butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil for a plant-based version.

What’s the best way to reheat candied yams?

Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15 minutes or until warm.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and bake just before serving.

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Conclusion

Candied Yams with Warm Spices is the ultimate holiday side dish. Sweet potatoes are peeled and sliced before being coated in a silky brown sugar glaze made with butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The glaze infuses the potatoes with rich, caramelized flavors, creating a dish that's both sweet and aromatic. Easy to prepare, this dish requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion. The yams are baked to tender perfection and can be served straight from the oven after a short cooling period. It’s an inviting side that pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or even roasted vegetables.