As the holiday season rolls around, it’s hard not to reminisce about the cherished dishes that fill our tables and hearts with warmth. The first time I set out to create my version of Amazing Candied Yams, I was surprisingly delighted by how easily the sweet potatoes transformed into a luscious centerpiece. This classic Southern holiday side dish, with its buttery sweetness and subtle spices, is not just a treat for the taste buds—it’s like a hug from the inside!
Perfectly creamy and infused with a touch of vanilla and cinnamon, these yams are sure to become the star of your festive gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or simply want to elevate your weeknight meals, this recipe is quick to whip up and can easily be customized to suit your taste.
So, grab your apron and get ready to indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of these Amazing Candied Yams! Let’s dive in and discover the magic behind this timeless Southern delight, with some fun variations to make it your own.
Why Are Amazing Candied Yams So Loved?
Rich Tradition: These yams are steeped in Southern heritage, making them a staple at holiday gatherings.
Mouthwatering Flavor: The blend of buttery sweetness complemented by warm spices creates a dish that’s simply irresistible.
Quick to Prepare: With just a few steps, you’ll have a delightful side that impresses without the stress!
Endless Variations: Feel free to experiment with different twists like citrus or nut substitutions to make it uniquely yours!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether served at Thanksgiving or Christmas, this dish always brings smiles, reminding us of family and good times.
Comforting Textures: Creamy, velvety yams crowned with a slightly caramelized crust are the epitome of comfort food!
Amazing Candied Yams Ingredients
For the Yams
• Sweet Potatoes – Primary base, providing that delightful natural sweetness. Choose firm ones for the best texture.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and creaminess; softened is best for easy mixing.
• Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Milk – Contributes to creaminess; try almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
For the Flavoring
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; always opt for pure extract for the best results.
• Ground Cinnamon – Offers a warm, aromatic flavor that’s essential for holiday dishes.
• Ground Nutmeg – Adds depth to the flavor profile; using freshly ground nutmeg is ideal for better taste.
Optional Add-Ins
• Brown Sugar – Elevates sweetness with caramel notes; you can substitute with more granulated sugar if needed.
• Chopped Pecans – For a delightful crunch; can be replaced with walnuts or left out for a nut-free version.
Feel free to mix and match these components to create your own version of the Amazing Candied Yams this festive season!
How to Make Amazing Candied Yams
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Prep Sweet Potatoes: Start by scrubbing, peeling, and cutting the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and a delightful texture that melts in your mouth.
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Cook: In a large pot, boil the sweet potato cubes in water for 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain them well to remove excess water.
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Mash: Transfer the drained sweet potatoes to a large bowl and mash them until smooth and creamy. A potato masher works perfectly for this task!
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Combine: Mix in softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir until everything is well blended. If you’re using pecans, gently fold them in.
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Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and heated through.
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Serve: Once done, take them out of the oven and enjoy these Amazing Candied Yams warm as a comforting side dish that will surely delight everyone!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Amazing Candied Yams?
Elevate your holiday feast by pairing these velvety yams with complementary dishes that enhance their delightful sweetness and create a satisfying meal.
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Savory Roasted Turkey: The rich, savory flavor of turkey contrasts perfectly with the sweet, buttery yams, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This classic combination is a staple on holiday tables everywhere, ensuring satisfaction for all guests.
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Spiced Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic and spices add a fresh, vibrant element that balances the sweetness of the yams. Together, they create a colorful and nutritious side that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
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Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: The cheesy richness of macaroni and cheese pairs well with the sweet notes of candied yams, making for a comfort food duo that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
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Sweet Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery dinner rolls offer a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy yams. These rolls are perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce or buttery goodness on your plate.
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Herb-Roasted Chicken: The aromatic flavors of herb-roasted chicken complement the sweetness of the yams, offering a well-rounded meal that feels hearty yet light.
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Maple-Glazed Carrots: With their natural sweetness, roasted or glazed carrots serve as a lovely counterpoint to the yams, adding a touch of color and elegance to your holiday spread.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: For a festive beverage, serve sparkling apple cider. Its crisp, fruity notes refresh the palate and emphasize the flavors of the yams while perfectly matching a celebratory atmosphere.
Amazing Candied Yams 4 Fun Twists!
As the holiday season rolls around, it’s hard not to reminisce about the cherished dishes that fill our tables and hearts with warmth. The first time I set out to create my version of Amazing Candied Yams, I was surprisingly delighted by how easily the sweet potatoes transformed into a luscious centerpiece. This classic Southern holiday side dish, with its buttery sweetness and subtle spices, is not just a treat for the taste buds—it’s like a hug from the inside!
Perfectly creamy and infused with a touch of vanilla and cinnamon, these yams are sure to become the star of your festive gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or simply want to elevate your weeknight meals, this recipe is quick to whip up and can easily be customized to suit your taste.
So, grab your apron and get ready to indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of these Amazing Candied Yams! Let’s dive in and discover the magic behind this timeless Southern delight, with some fun variations to make it your own.
Amazing Candied Yams Variations & Substitutions
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Zesty Citrus: Add a splash of orange juice or zest to brighten flavors and add a refreshing twist.
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Nut-Free Version: Omit pecans altogether for a nut-free dish, allowing the sweet potatoes to shine on their own.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute almond or coconut milk for regular milk to keep it creamy while catering to dairy-free diets.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne or ground ginger into the mix for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness.
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Maple Sweetness: Use pure maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor and natural sweetness.
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Savory Twist: Mix in a touch of freshly chopped sage or thyme for an earthy, herby flavor that’s unexpected yet delicious.
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Coconut Cream: Swap regular milk for coconut cream to give a tropical flair and rich, velvety texture.
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Extra Crunch: Toss in toasted walnuts or pecans for an additional layer of crunch that elevates the dish’s texture.
Expert Tips for Amazing Candied Yams
Tender Sweet Potatoes: Ensure sweet potatoes are fork-tender before mashing; undercooked potatoes can lead to a lumpy texture.
Perfect Seasoning: Don’t skimp on spices; use freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg to significantly elevate the flavor of your Amazing Candied Yams.
Mixing Technique: Combine ingredients gently; overmixing can lead to a gummy texture. Aim for a smooth, creamy mixture!
Adapt to Taste: Feel free to adjust sugar levels based on your sweetness preference, balancing the natural sweetness of yams with added granulated sugar.
Add a Crunch: If using nuts, toast them lightly beforehand to enhance their flavor and add extra crunch to your delicious side dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Amazing Candied Yams are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following the first four steps of the recipe—boiling, mashing, and combining all the ingredients. Simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. To finish, just pour the assembled mixture into a greased baking dish and bake it straight from the fridge at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes to ensure it’s heated through and the top is perfectly golden. This way, you can enjoy rich, comforting flavors with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!
Storage Tips for Amazing Candied Yams
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This preserves the creamy texture and rich flavors of your Amazing Candied Yams.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the yams in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain the creamy texture.
Serving Ideas: Consider serving reheated yams as a side to roasted meats or as part of a festive buffet; they’ll still be a hit even after storage!
Amazing Candied Yams Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right sweet potatoes for Amazing Candied Yams?
Absolutely! When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm ones with smooth skins and no dark spots or blemishes. These indicators suggest freshness and better texture, ensuring your yams will be sweet and creamy when cooked.
How should I store leftovers of Amazing Candied Yams?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. This storage method helps maintain their creamy texture and rich flavors. Just make sure to cool them to room temperature before sealing the container to avoid condensation.
Can I freeze Amazing Candied Yams?
Certainly! For freezing, place the cooled yams in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, ensuring they are tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven.
What should I do if my yams turn out lumpy after mashing?
No worries! If your yams are lumpy, it usually means they weren’t cooked long enough. To fix this, simply return the lumpy mixture to a pot with a little additional milk over low heat. Mash them further with a potato masher or a fork until you achieve that smooth, creamy texture. Gradually heating helps break down any stubborn chunks.
Are Amazing Candied Yams suitable for people with allergies?
Definitely! If you’re making the yams for guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily adjust the recipe. For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped pecans, or substitute them with seeds like sunflower if desired. Also, use almond or oat milk as a dairy-free alternative. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they’re safe for everyone.
Amazing Candied Yams Southern Holiday Side 4 Fun Twists!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by scrubbing, peeling, and cutting the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes.
- In a large pot, boil the sweet potato cubes in water for 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain them well.
- Transfer the drained sweet potatoes to a large bowl and mash them until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- Once done, take them out of the oven and enjoy these Amazing Candied Yams warm.