Description
These Irresistible Candied Yams feature tender sweet potatoes baked in a luscious, buttery brown sugar glaze infused with warm cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfectly caramelized and richly flavorful, this classic side dish is a holiday favorite that delights the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Sweet Potatoes
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds total)
Glaze
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into thick chunks. Arrange the pieces evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure even cooking.
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter completely, creating the base for the sugary glaze.
- Add Sugars: Stir in the brown sugar and granulated sugar to the melted butter until completely dissolved, forming a sweet mixture.
- Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: Add the heavy cream, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract to the saucepan. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes while stirring constantly to achieve a smooth and slightly thickened glaze.
- Coat Sweet Potatoes: Pour the hot glaze evenly over the sweet potato chunks, making sure all pieces are well coated in the flavorful mixture.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes. This helps the potatoes soften and absorb the glaze.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes. Spoon the sauce over the sweet potatoes halfway through this time to encourage caramelization until they are fork-tender and beautifully caramelized.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the candied yams rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the glaze to thicken for the perfect consistency before serving.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, add a pinch of ground ginger or a splash of orange juice to the glaze.
- Use fresh nutmeg if possible for a more vibrant spice profile.
- Covering the dish tightly with foil ensures tender yams by trapping steam during the initial bake.
- Spoon the glaze over the yams while baking uncovered to enhance the caramelization process.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or a festive holiday meal.
