What makes candied yams a staple at every family gathering? This easy homemade recipe uses sweet potatoes, brown sugar and marshmallows to create a deliciously sticky side dish perfect for weeknight dinner or a special occasion, save this idea for your next family favorite meal.

Candied Yams

Introduction

Candied yams are a classic dish that combines the natural sweetness of yams with a rich, caramelized sugar crust, creating a flavor and texture experience that’s both comforting and indulgent. This recipe is all about ease, flavor, and creativity, using everyday ingredients to produce a dish that’s perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply a cozy family dinner. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, candied yams are a great way to add some warmth and hospitality to your table.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory, using ingredients that are readily available in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: The steps are straightforward, and the dish can be prepared and cooked within a relatively short time frame, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the end result is a dish that looks and tastes like it was made with much more fuss, making it ideal for entertaining or special meals.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for candied yams include yams, brown sugar, granulated sugar, marshmallows, cinnamon, nutmeg, and butter. Yams are the star of the show, providing a deliciously sweet and tender base. Brown and granulated sugar work together to create a caramelized crust, while marshmallows add a fun textural element. Cinnamon and nutmeg provide warmth and depth to the dish, and butter enriches the flavor and helps to brown the sugar. For practical substitutions, sweet potatoes can be used in place of yams if needed, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Additionally, different spices like ginger or allspice can be used to change up the flavor profile.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, peel and slice the yams into rounds or cubes, depending on your preference. Place the yams in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the yams are slightly tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the yams and set them aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the sliced or cubed yams to the bowl and toss them in the sugar mixture until they are evenly coated. Transfer the yams to a baking dish, leaving a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
3. Step 3: Dot the top of the yams with butter, then cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the tops are caramelized and golden brown. About 5 minutes before the yams are done, sprinkle marshmallows over the top and return the dish to the oven. The marshmallows should be lightly toasted and golden brown when the dish is ready.
4. Step 4: Remove the candied yams from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be served hot, garnished with additional marshmallows or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Handy Tips

• For the best results, choose yams that are high in moisture, as these will yield a sweeter and more tender dish. Avoid overcooking the yams in the initial boiling step, as this can make them too soft and mushy. If using marshmallows, keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as they can quickly go from perfectly toasted to burnt.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe, especially during the baking phase. The ideal temperature is 400°F (200°C), and the yams should be baked for about 45-50 minutes total, or until they are tender and the sugar is caramelized. To check for doneness, pierce a yam with a fork; it should be easily pierced but still firm enough to hold its shape. The tops should be golden brown and the marshmallows lightly toasted.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in candied yams comes from the caramelized sugar on top and the toasted marshmallows. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure the yams are not overcrowded in the baking dish, allowing the sugar to caramelize evenly. Also, keep an eye on the marshmallows during the last few minutes of baking; they should be lightly golden brown and still retain some of their puffiness.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Storage Tips

• Candied yams can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them cool completely, then cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. Candied yams can also be frozen for up to 2 months; let them cool, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer. Reheat frozen yams in the oven as you would refrigerated ones.

Gift Packaging Ideas

Candied yams make a wonderful gift, especially during the holidays. To package them as a gift, let the yams cool completely, then transfer them to a decorative baking dish or airtight container. Wrap the dish or container in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and decorate with a ribbon or gift tag. You can also include a card with reheating instructions and a personal message. For a more rustic look, consider packaging the yams in a wooden crate or a basket lined with parchment paper and decorated with fall-themed elements like leaves or twigs.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of ground ginger, nutmeg, or allspice to the sugar mixture for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Creative toppings: In addition to marshmallows, consider topping your candied yams with chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts), dried cranberries, or even a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
• Ingredient swaps: For a lighter version, use less sugar or substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup. You can also use sweet potatoes instead of yams for a slightly different flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the yams are too soft or mushy, they may have been overcooked. Try reducing the cooking time in both the boiling and baking steps. If the yams are too hard, they may not have cooked long enough; try baking them for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they reach the desired tenderness.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have marshmallows, you can omit them or substitute with a different topping like nuts or dried fruit. If you’re out of a particular spice, you can usually substitute with a similar spice or omit it altogether.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the yams during the baking time, and check for doneness by piercing them with a fork. If the tops are too brown, cover the dish with foil to prevent further browning.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, candied yams can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let them cool, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe for candied yams is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just make sure to use a large enough baking dish to accommodate all the yams in a single layer.

Conclusion

Candied yams are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their sweet, caramelized flavor and tender texture, they’re sure to become a new favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and toppings to make the recipe your own, and consider sharing it with friends and family as a thoughtful gift. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to add some warmth and hospitality to your table. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the comforting taste of candied yams!