When it comes to Southern comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as Southern Candied Yams. This timeless recipe combines tender sweet potatoes with a rich, buttery syrup infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for holiday feasts, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and Savory: The perfect balance of sweetness and warm spices.
- Comfort Food: A classic Southern dish that’s rich, indulgent, and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Versatile: Great for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
- 3 lbs sweet potatoes – Naturally sweet and tender, they are the heart of the dish.
- ¾ cup brown sugar – Adds deep molasses flavor and enhances caramelization.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Provides extra sweetness and balances the brown sugar.
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter – Gives richness and helps create the silky syrup.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon – Brings warmth and spice to the dish.
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg – Adds a hint of earthiness and depth.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness with a smooth, aromatic touch.
- Pinch of salt – Balances the flavors and prevents the dish from being overly sweet.
Tips and Tricks
- Uniform Slices: Cut the sweet potatoes into even rounds for consistent cooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Boil the sweet potatoes just until slightly tender to avoid mushiness.
- Adjust Sweetness: Reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet dish.
- Add Marshmallows: For a classic twist, top the casserole with marshmallows during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat.
- Citrus Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of orange zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking.
Pairing Suggestions
- Main Dishes: Serve alongside roasted turkey, ham, or fried chicken.
- Side Dishes: Pair with collard greens, cornbread, or mac and cheese for a complete Southern meal.
- Beverages: Enjoy with sweet tea, apple cider, or a glass of red wine.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Popular Questions
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes, but reduce the baking time since they’re already tender.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
3. What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?
In the U.S., “yams” are often labeled as sweet potatoes. True yams are starchier and less sweet, but either can work in this recipe.