This Southern Baked Candied Yams recipe is a classic dish that brings warmth and sweetness to any meal, especially during Thanksgiving. Made with tender sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and spices, these yams are a delightful addition to your holiday table.
Whether you choose to bake them in the oven or prepare them on the stove, this recipe guarantees the best candied yams experience. Perfect for family gatherings, these easy canned options also make preparation a breeze.
Overview of Southern Baked Candied Yams
Southern baked candied yams are a cherished dish that captures the essence of comfort food, especially during festive occasions like Thanksgiving. This delightful recipe features sweet potatoes that are transformed into a sweet, syrupy treat, perfect for complementing savory dishes.
The combination of brown sugar, butter, and warm spices creates a rich glaze that coats each slice of sweet potato, resulting in a dish that is both visually appealing and delicious. Whether prepared in the oven or on the stove, these candied yams are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients That Shine
The key to the best candied yams lies in the quality of the ingredients. Fresh sweet potatoes serve as the base, providing a naturally sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the syrup.
Brown sugar is essential for creating that rich, caramelized finish, while butter adds a creamy texture. A sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite a warm embrace of autumn spices. Optional vanilla extract can elevate the dish further, adding depth to the sweetness.
Preparation Steps Made Simple
Preparing Southern candied yams is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Start by peeling and slicing the sweet potatoes into rounds, ensuring even cooking.
The syrup is easily made by mixing melted butter with brown sugar, spices, and a touch of water. This mixture is poured over the arranged sweet potatoes in a baking dish, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully during baking.
Baking to Perfection
The baking process is where the magic happens. Covering the dish with aluminum foil helps steam the yams initially, making them tender. After about 30 minutes, removing the foil allows the syrup to thicken and caramelize, resulting in a glossy finish.
Keep an eye on the yams as they bake, ensuring they reach the perfect level of tenderness without losing their shape. The aroma that fills the kitchen during this time is simply irresistible.
Serving Suggestions for a Festive Touch
Once the baked candied yams are ready, they can be served warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an added touch of elegance. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, greens, and other traditional sides, making it a staple on holiday tables.
For an extra festive presentation, consider placing the yams in a decorative serving dish, surrounded by autumn leaves or seasonal decor. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also sets the mood for a cozy gathering.
Variations to Try
While the classic recipe is a favorite, there are variations to explore. For those looking for a quicker option, stove top candied yams offer a delightful alternative that can be prepared in less time.
Experimenting with different spices or adding nuts can also provide a unique twist to the traditional recipe. Whether you opt for baked or stove top, the essence of Southern candied yams remains a comforting reminder of home-cooked meals and family gatherings.
Easy Southern Candied Yams Recipe
This recipe features sweet potatoes coated in a rich syrup made from brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon, baked to perfection in a baking dish. It takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into rounds.
- Make the Syrup: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and water. Stir until well mixed.
- Layer the Yams: In a baking dish, arrange the sliced sweet potatoes in layers. Pour the syrup mixture over the top, ensuring all slices are coated.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the yams are tender and caramelized.
- Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These candied yams are perfect as a side dish for any holiday meal.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 40g