Southern candied yams are a staple in soul food and classic Southern cuisine. This delicious side dish brings out the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes by coating them in a brown sugar mixture that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Whether you’re preparing them for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just craving a comforting dish, this candied yam recipe is a must-try.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make candied yams from scratch, the difference between yams and sweet potatoes, and how to perfect this classic Southern dish every time. Let’s dive into the secrets of the best candied yams recipe!
What Are Southern Candied Yams?
Despite the name, candied yams are actually made from sweet potatoes, not true yams. In the Southern tradition, these sweet potatoes are baked in a casserole dish and coated with a rich sugar mixture made from brown sugar, butter, and sometimes cinnamon or nutmeg.
Why Are They Called Candied Yams?
- The term “yam” is commonly used in the U.S. to refer to sweet potatoes with deep orange flesh.
- True yams are starchy, drier, and mostly found in African, Asian, or Caribbean cuisines.
- The “candied” part comes from the caramelized brown sugar and butter mixture that forms a glossy glaze over the sweet potatoes.
These Southern-style sweet potatoes are cooked in a sweet syrup, creating a classic holiday side dish that’s rich, buttery, and perfectly caramelized.
Best Southern Candied Sweet Recipe: A Classic Yams Potato Delight
Course: vegan snack6
servings15
minutes50
minutes180
kcalMake the best Southern candied yams with this easy candied sweet potato recipe! Tender sweet potatoes coated in a rich brown sugar syrup, baked to caramelized perfection. A classic Southern side dish perfect for holidays and family gatherings!
Ingredients
4 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and sliced into rounds
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup packed brown sugar (dark brown sugar preferred for deeper flavor)
¼ cup white sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup water or orange juice (for extra moisture and flavor)
- Optional:
½ cup chopped pecans (for a nutty crunch)
Marshmallows (if you like a gooey topping)
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into ¼-inch thick rounds or wedges.
- Place the sweet potato slices into a lightly greased baking dish or casserole dish.
- Step 2: Make the Candied Syrup
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in the brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract.
- Add ½ cup of water or orange juice and stir until the sugar dissolves into a smooth, glossy syrup.
- Step 3: Coat the Sweet Potatoes
- Pour the sugar mixture over the sweet potatoes, ensuring they are well coated.
- Use a spoon to stir the sweet potatoes so the syrup spreads evenly.
- Step 4: Bake Until Tender and Caramelized
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, stir the sweet potatoes, and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes until they are soft and caramelized.
- The candied syrup should be thick, and the potatoes should be fork-tender.
- Step 5: Optional Final Touches
- For extra texture, sprinkle candied pecans over the top.
- If you love a marshmallow topping, add them in the last 10 minutes and let them melt slightly.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the candied yams cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy this classic holiday side dish with your favorite Southern meal!
Nutritional Information (Per 100g Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Per 100g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Sugars | 20g |
| Protein | 1.5g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Fiber | 2.5g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
| Vitamin A | 290% DV |
| Vitamin C | 25% DV |
| Calcium | 4% DV |
| Iron | 3% DV |
Difference Between Yams and Sweet Potatoes
The difference between yams and sweet potatoes is often misunderstood, but here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Yams | Sweet Potatoes |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Africa, Asia, Caribbean | North & South America |
| Texture | Dry, starchy, rough skin | Moist, smooth skin, creamy |
| Color | White, purple, or reddish | Orange, yellow, or purple |
| Flavor | Neutral, mild | Sweet, buttery |
| Common Use | Savory dishes, stews | Desserts, casseroles, candied |
For Southern candied yams, you’ll want to use sweet potatoes, not true yams, to achieve that signature soft and sweet texture.
Why You’ll Love This Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe
- Classic Southern flavor – This is a classic Southern dish that has been passed down for generations.
- Perfect holiday side dish – Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinners.
- Simple ingredients – Made with sweet potatoes, brown sugar, butter, and spices.
- Easy to customize – Add candied pecans, marshmallows, or a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Ingredients Needed for Classic Southern Candied Yams
To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- Sweet potatoes – The star of the dish!
- Brown sugar – Creates the signature caramelized glaze.
- White sugar – Adds extra sweetness.
- Butter – For richness and a velvety texture.
- Cinnamon & nutmeg – Warm spices enhance the natural sweetness.
- Vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness.
Optional add-ins:
- Candied pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Marshmallows for extra sweetness.
How to Make Candied Yams Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into rounds or wedges.
- Place the sweet potatoes in a baking dish or casserole dish.
Step 2: Make the Candied Mixture
- In a saucepan, melt butter, then add brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir until the sugar mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Coat and Bake
- Pour the sugar mixture over the sweet potatoes in the baking dish.
- Toss the sweet potatoes to coat evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Bake until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and glazed in the syrup.
Tips for the Best Candied Sweet Potatoes
- Use fresh sweet potatoes, not canned yams, for the best texture.
- Bake uncovered to allow the sugar mixture to caramelize.
- Stir occasionally so the sweet potatoes absorb the syrup evenly.
Baked Candied Sweet Potatoes vs. Stovetop Candied Yams
- Baked Candied Sweet Potatoes – Caramelizes better, slightly crispy edges.
- Stovetop Candied Yams – Softer texture, quicker cooking time.
Both methods work, but baking provides that classic Southern-style texture!
Canned Yams vs. Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Which One to Use?
- Fresh sweet potatoes – Recommended for the best texture and flavor.
- Canned yams – Pre-cooked and softer, but a quicker option if needed.
If using canned sweet potatoes, reduce baking time by half.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Candied Yams
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warm, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
- Freeze for up to 3 months, thaw overnight before reheating.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Candied Sweet Potatoes
- Southern fried chicken
- Cornbread
- Mac and cheese
- Collard greens
- Glazed ham
FAQs About Candied Yams
1. Can I make candied yams ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare them a day in advance and reheat before serving.
2. Why are my candied yams too watery?
Make sure to bake uncovered so the syrup thickens.
3. Can I make candied yams without brown sugar?
Yes, substitute with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
4. How do I make this recipe vegan?
Use plant-based butter and coconut sugar for a vegan-friendly version.
5. Are candied yams a dessert or a side dish?
They’re a Southern side dish, but they taste as sweet as dessert!
