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Candied Yams

Candied yams sweet potatoes are a beloved dish that brings warmth and sweetness to any table. This tender, syrupy delight is perfect for holidays or family gatherings.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time1 hour 30 minutes
Course: Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Candied Yams, comfort food, Dessert, Holiday Recipe, Sweet Potatoes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

For the sweet potatoes

  • 4 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds

For the sauce

  • 1/2 cup salted butter, sliced into 1 Tbsp pieces To be browned in a skillet
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar This adds sweetness
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3/4 tsp salt To enhance flavor
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 Tbsp cornstarch For thickening the sauce

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
  • Align the sweet potato rounds in rows in your prepared baking dish. Set aside.

Making the Sauce

  • In a medium light-colored skillet, place the butter pieces and set the skillet over medium heat. Let the butter cook, stirring frequently, until it just turns a lovely brown. Pour the browned butter into a medium heatproof mixing bowl to stop it from cooking further.
  • Add the brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the bowl with the browned butter and mix until smooth.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth.
  • Pour the cream mixture and vanilla extract into the brown sugar mixture and whisk to blend.

Baking

  • Pour the brown sugar mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes in the baking dish.
  • Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for about 50-60 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are nearly tender.
  • Uncover the dish, spoon the sauce over the potatoes, and bake for an additional 10-20 minutes until fully tender.
  • Serve warm with the luscious sauce spooned generously over the top.

Notes

Serve warm in individual bowls or on a large platter. Drizzle with buttery sauce and consider adding toasted pecans or mini marshmallows for extra flavor. Pairs well with savory dishes like roasted turkey or baked ham.