These Candied Yams are a Southern classic — sweet potatoes baked in a luscious brown sugar and butter glaze until caramelized and tender. Every holiday table needs this sweet, soul-warming side dish. Find the full recipe below.
Did You Know?
Despite the name, 'candied yams' in American cooking are almost always made with sweet potatoes, not true yams. True yams are a starchy tuber from Africa and Asia that can grow up to 5 feet long! The confusion dates back to when enslaved Africans in the American South called sweet potatoes 'nyami' after the similar-looking root vegetables from their homeland.
Candied yams are a cornerstone of Southern and African American cooking, especially during holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. Many families have recipes passed down through generations, each with their own secret touch — some add orange juice, others use rum, and some insist on marshmallows on top.
Pro Tips
- Choose firm, medium sweet potatoes — they hold their shape better during baking than very large ones.
- Cut pieces evenly — uniform thickness ensures everything cooks at the same rate.
- Baste often — spoon the buttery syrup over the yams every 15 minutes for a thick, glossy glaze.
- Don't boil first — baking the yams raw in the sauce lets them absorb flavor throughout while caramelizing beautifully.
- Use dark brown sugar — it has more molasses than light brown sugar, giving the glaze a deeper, richer flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?
In US grocery stores, what's labeled 'yams' are actually sweet potatoes. True yams are a different vegetable entirely and rarely found in American stores.
Can I make candied yams ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare a day ahead, refrigerate, and reheat at 350°F for 20 minutes. The flavors actually deepen overnight.
Should I peel the sweet potatoes?
Yes — peel them for the silkiest texture and so the glaze can fully penetrate the flesh.
How do I prevent them from being mushy?
Cut them thick (about 1 inch), and don't overcook. They should be fork-tender but still hold their shape.
Can I add marshmallows?
Absolutely — add them on top during the last 10 minutes of baking until golden and puffy.
How long do candied yams bake?
About 45-60 minutes at 350°F, basting every 15 minutes until the glaze is thick and the yams are tender.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
You can for a quicker version, but fresh sweet potatoes have much better flavor and texture.
What spices go in candied yams?
Cinnamon and nutmeg are classic. Some recipes also add vanilla extract or a pinch of allspice.
Absolutely! You can peel and cut the sweet potatoes a day ahead and refrigerate them. Mix the brown sugar mixture separately and store it in the fridge. Combine them and bake when you're ready.
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Full Recipe
The Perfect Recipe for Heavenly Candied Yams
Ingredients
Method
- 1. Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- 2. In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and Chinese Five Spices. Mix thoroughly.
- 3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and spray a 9x13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- 4. Transfer the sweet potatoes to the baking dish and pour the brown sugar mixture over them. Toss to coat evenly, then cover with aluminum foil.
- 5. Bake at 350°F for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, tossing the sweet potatoes halfway through.
- 6. Once done, the candied yams should have a delectable golden coating.
- 7. Garnish with the zest of one lemon.
- 8. Serve the candied yams while still warm. For an extra indulgence, top them with mini marshmallows and let the magic happen in the oven.
- There you have it – Kelvin's Kitchen Candied Yams. Enjoy this delicious treat and make sure to share your kitchen adventures with us. ¡Buen provecho! Thanks for visiting Kelvin's Kitchen. See you in the next recipe!
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What to Serve With Candied Yams
Roasted turkey or baked ham are the classic holiday mains — the sweet yams provide a beautiful contrast to the savory, salty meat.
Collard greens or green beans add a savory, slightly bitter element that balances the sweetness of the candied yams.
Cornbread or dinner rolls complete the Southern spread — use them to soak up any extra glaze on the plate.
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