Sweet and Spiced Candied Yams Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 large sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup of brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup of heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup of marshmallows

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1/2 inch thick slices.
  3. Place the sweet potato slices in a baking dish.
  4. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, butter, and heavy cream.
  5. Stir the mixture until the sugars have dissolved and the sauce is smooth.
  6. Pour the sauce over the sweet potatoes in the baking dish, ensuring all slices are covered.
  7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  8. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the sauce is thick and syrupy.
  9. Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle marshmallows evenly over the top.
  10. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and puffy.
  11. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Replace the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a more intense flavor.
  • Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
  • Sprinkle a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for added warmth and spice.
  • Use coconut sugar or a natural sweetener as a healthier alternative to granulated sugar.
  • Top the candied yams with a streusel crumble made with oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter.
  • Add a splash of orange juice or zest to brighten the flavors.
  • Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free option.
  • Try using sweet potato varieties like purple or white sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
  • For a savory twist, add a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper along with herbs like thyme or rosemary.
  • Instead of marshmallows, top the yams with a layer of toasted coconut flakes for a tropical touch.

Recipe overview

Have a sweet tooth? This Candied Yams recipe is sure to satisfy! A traditional Southern dish, Candied Yams are a must-have at any holiday celebration or family gathering. These yams are slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, sweet, and spiced syrup, then topped with fluffy marshmallows for that extra touch of indulgence. The end result is a deliciously tender and sweet side dish with a beautifully caramelized top. It's a simple recipe that requires basic pantry ingredients, and is sure to impress all your guests. Bon Appetit!

Common questions

  1. Can I use canned yams instead of fresh sweet potatoes? No, it is recommended to use fresh sweet potatoes for this recipe to achieve the best flavor and texture.
  2. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. However, keep in mind that reducing the sugar may alter the taste and consistency of the candied yams.
  3. Can I use margarine instead of butter? While it is possible to substitute margarine for butter, it may affect the taste and texture of the dish. Butter is recommended for the best results.
  4. Can I omit the marshmallows? Yes, if you prefer not to use marshmallows, you can omit them from the recipe. The candied yams will still be delicious without them.
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the candied yams ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven before serving.
  6. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking dish - A deep dish for baking the candied yams.
  • Saucepan - Used to cook and combine the ingredients for the sauce.
  • Aluminum foil - Used to cover the baking dish while baking.
  • Oven - To preheat and bake the candied yams.
  • Spatula - To mix and transfer the sauce and sweet potatoes.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - To accurately measure the ingredients.

Origin stories

Candied Yams have a rich history, rooted in the southern region of the United States. These sweet, sugary delights became a staple during the era of soul food in the 1960s. But here's something surprising - despite the name, the dish is often prepared with sweet potatoes, not yams! This misnomer dates back to when African slaves in the South started calling the native sweet potato "yam" because it reminded them of the true yam from their homeland. This naming tradition stuck, and even today, some still use the term "yam" to refer to the sweet potato. So, the next time you enjoy a bite of this delicious, marshmallow-topped dish, remember the rich, cultural history that helped shape its identity.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.