There’s a certain warmth that fills the kitchen when I think about the holiday gatherings of my childhood. The rich aroma of sweet, sticky Candied Yams wafting through the air was always the star of the feast. I can still picture the burst of colors on the table, with bright orange sweet potatoes glistening under the soft glow of candlelight. This Sweet Potato Casserole takes me back to those cherished moments, and it’s surprisingly simple to recreate.
After a long week that often finds me reaching for takeout menus, this recipe is a delightful way to elevate my home cooking. The combination of sweet potatoes, warm spices, and the zing of orange juice transforms a humble ingredient into something truly special—perfect as a side dish or a cozy main attraction. So let’s roll up our sleeves and create a dish that not only satisfies the craving for homemade goodness but also invites everyone around the table to indulge in a little nostalgia.
Why are Candied Yams a Must-Try Dish?
Irresistible warmth: The fusion of sweet potatoes and warm spices creates a comforting embrace on your taste buds.
Easy preparation: With just a few steps, you’ll transform simple ingredients into a festive delight.
Crowd-pleaser: This dish brings people together, perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Versatile flavor: The addition of orange juice elevates the traditional recipe, adding a tangy twist.
Nostalgic delight: Each bite is a trip down memory lane, reminiscent of joyful holiday feasts.
Embrace homemade goodness and make these Candied Yams a staple at your table!
Candied Yams Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Base
- Sweet potatoes (garnet or ruby) – these vibrant yams create a rich, creamy texture that forms the base of your candied yams.
- Kosher salt – just a pinch enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
For the Sweet Mixture
- Orange juice – adds a refreshing zing that brightens the dish and balances the sweetness of the yams.
- Brown sugar – this not only sweetens but also adds a deep caramel flavor, making your candied yams a true treat.
- Ground ginger – lends a warm, spicy kick that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Cinnamon – infuses a cozy aroma, making these yams reminiscent of holiday gatherings.
For the Creamy Texture
- Butter – brings richness and helps create a smooth consistency when mashing the sweet potatoes.
Elevate your holiday table with these Candied Yams—a dish sure to warm hearts and fill bellies!
How to Make Candied Yams
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Prepare the sweet potatoes by peeling and cutting them into 2-inch chunks. This ensures even cooking and a creamy texture when mashed.
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Cook the sweet potatoes in a large pot of boiling water with a pinch of kosher salt. Boil until they become fork-tender, usually about 15-20 minutes, and then drain.
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Return the sweet potatoes to the pot. This allows the residual heat to help evaporate any excess moisture.
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Combine orange juice, brown sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, and butter with the sweet potatoes. Stir well, letting the butter melt as you go.
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Mash everything together until smooth and well combined. You want a creamy consistency, with all the flavors melding beautifully.
Optional: Top with mini marshmallows and broil for a golden finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Candied Yams
Fridge: Store leftover candied yams in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of orange juice to restore moisture.
Freezer: Freeze candied yams in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best texture.
Room Temperature: If serving freshly made candied yams, they can sit out at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Any remaining should be refrigerated.
Reheating: To enjoy candied yams again, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
What to Serve with Candied Yams?
Creating the perfect meal is all about balance, and these sweet, sticky yams deserve some delightful companions on your table.
- Savory Roast Chicken: The tender, juicy flavor of roast chicken balances the sweetness of the candied yams, creating a wonderfully harmonious meal.
- Crispy Green Beans: Their fresh crunch adds a nice contrast to the creamy texture of the yams, making each bite a delightful experience.
- Herb-Infused Rice: A simple herb rice dish brings earthiness to the table, allowing the sweetness of the yams to shine without overwhelming the palate.
- Tangy Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw with a vinegar dressing adds brightness and a crunchy texture, perfectly offsetting the rich, sweet profile of the yams.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes complement the flavors beautifully, creating a luxurious addition to your holiday spread.
- Zesty Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast, cutting through the sweetness of the candied yams for a well-rounded dish.
- Chilled White Wine: A smooth, chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors of the meal and provides a crisp counterpoint to the sweetness.
- Chocolate Pecan Pie: For dessert, a rich chocolate pecan pie offers a nutty crunch and chocolatey sweetness, perfect for rounding out this festive feast.
Make Ahead Options
These Candied Yams are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time and simplify meal planning! You can prepare the sweet potato base by cooking and mashing the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Just follow the cooking instructions, then let the mixture cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain that delightful creamy texture, add a bit of orange juice just before serving if you find it thickened too much. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the mixture in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until warmed through, and add any final touches like mini marshmallows for a festive finish. With this prep ahead option, you’ll have a delicious side dish with minimal effort!
Candied Yams Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own! Your kitchen is your playground.
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Maple Syrup: Substitute half of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique, earthy sweetness. The warmth of maple beautifully complements the sweet potatoes.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for a delightful crunch! This extra texture takes the dish to a whole new delicious level.
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Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil for a plant-based twist while still keeping the richness in your candied yams. You’ll enjoy a hint of tropical flavor too!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness perfectly. This unexpected turn transforms the familiar dish!
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Pineapple Twist: Incorporate crushed pineapple into the mixture for a fruity surprise that brightens every bite. The tropical flavors will take your palate on a mini-vacation!
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Cinnamon Swirl: Swirl in a bit of cinnamon sugar on top before broiling for a caramelized crust that adds an inviting aroma and a sweet finish.
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Citrus Zest: Freshly grated orange or lemon zest brightens the flavor, adding a refreshing zing that pairs beautifully with the sweet potatoes. A small touch for a big difference!
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Creamy Addition: Fold in a little cream cheese or mascarpone for an extra creamy texture that makes your yams irresistibly rich and indulgent. The creaminess pairs wonderfully with the spices.
Helpful Tricks for Candied Yams
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for garnet or ruby varieties, as they are sweeter and creamier, ensuring delicious candied yams.
- Don’t Overcook: Boil the sweet potatoes just until fork-tender to avoid a mushy texture; around 15-20 minutes should do the trick.
- Creamy Consistency: Make sure to mash thoroughly for a smooth and delightful texture, which showcases the flavors of orange juice and spices.
- Layer the Flavors: Mixing the orange juice, brown sugar, and spices directly into the sweet potatoes helps distribute the flavor evenly throughout the dish.
- Broil for a Finish: For added flair, top with mini marshmallows and broil them to achieve that irresistible golden glow and a sweet crust.
Candied Yams Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! For the best candied yams, opt for garnet or ruby sweet potatoes. These varieties are naturally sweeter and creamier, which helps create that rich texture and flavor you desire in your dish.
How should I store leftover candied yams?
You can store leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of orange juice to bring back their delightful moistness.
Can I freeze candied yams?
Yes, you can! To freeze your candied yams, place them in a freezer-safe container and store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered, to maintain their texture.
What if my sweet potatoes are overcooked?
If you accidentally overcook your sweet potatoes, don’t worry! A bit of cream or milk can help bring back some creaminess. Just mix it in while mashing to achieve a smoother texture.
Are candied yams safe for pets?
It’s important to be cautious! While sweet potatoes are generally safe for dogs, avoid adding brown sugar, orange juice, or spices, as these can be harmful. Always consult your vet before sharing human food with pets.
What should I do if my candied yams are too sweet?
If your candied yams are a bit too sweet, you can balance the flavor by adding a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice, which can help enhance the overall flavor profile. Adjust to your taste, and you’ve got yourself a perfect dish!
Delicious Candied Yams That Elevate Your Holiday Table
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the sweet potatoes by peeling and cutting them into 2-inch chunks.
- Cook the sweet potatoes in a large pot of boiling water with a pinch of kosher salt for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender, then drain.
- Return the sweet potatoes to the pot to evaporate excess moisture.
- Combine orange juice, brown sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, and butter with the sweet potatoes, stirring well.
- Mash everything together until smooth and well combined.
- Optional: Top with mini marshmallows and broil for a golden finish.