Best Southern Candied Yams Recipe

Introducition

Ever find yourself searching for that one side dish that everyone at the table will reach for first? This Best Southern candied yams recipe might just be it. It’s more than just a holiday favorite—it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing classic you’ll want to keep in your rotation year-round.

Simple Enough for Any Cook

You don’t need to be a professional chef to pull this off. With a few pantry staples and some sweet potatoes, this recipe comes together easily—even if it’s your first time making Thanksgiving candied yams with brown sugar.

Rich, Familiar Flavor

The combination of dark brown sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla creates that unmistakable flavor of Mom’s classic candied yams. It’s the kind of taste that brings back memories—and maybe even creates a few new ones.

Perfect for Any Holiday Table

Whether you’re building out your list of Southern Thanksgiving side dishes or planning a cozy weekend dinner, these yams fit right in. They’re especially great when you’re looking for vegetarian Thanksgiving sides that still feel indulgent and satisfying.

Make-Ahead Magic

Want to save time on the big day? This is a great make-ahead candied yams recipe. Just prep it the night before and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—no stress, no last-minute scrambling.

Easy to Customize

Prefer less sweetness? Skip the marshmallows. Want a bolder flavor? Add a splash of bourbon or a little orange zest. This dish is flexible enough to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs—it’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan.

Ingredients

If you’ve ever wondered how to make candied yams with sweet potatoes that taste just like the ones your mom or grandma made, it starts with simple, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this rich, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for holidays or any comfort-food craving.

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
  Look for firm, deep orange sweet potatoes—the best kind for that soft, creamy texture once baked.
• ½ cup unsalted butter
  You can use salted butter too—just skip the added salt below. See our FAQ on “Salted butter vs. unsalted butter for candied yams” for more guidance.
• ¾ cup dark brown sugar
  This gives the dish its signature rich flavor and sticky glaze. For extra depth, go with dark brown sugar candied yams over light brown sugar.
• ¼ cup maple syrup (optional)
  Adds another layer of natural sweetness and complexity. A great way to elevate your glaze without overpowering it.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  Wondering “Why use vanilla extract in candied yams?” It enhances the sweetness and warms up the whole flavor profile.
• Pinch of salt
• Mini marshmallows (optional topping)
  Totally up to you—some love that gooey golden top, others prefer the classic glaze-only approach.

Tip: For even cooking, try to slice your sweet potatoes as uniformly as possible. It makes a big difference in texture.

Instructions

Making these candied yams is as simple as it is rewarding. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a dish that fills your kitchen with the delicious scent of the holidays—no matter the season.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer, slightly overlapping if needed. This ensures they bake evenly.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

• In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
• Add the dark brown sugar, maple syrup (if using), cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
• Stir until everything is smooth, then let the mixture simmer for 3–5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. The glaze should be glossy and rich in flavor.

Step 3: Pour and Bake

• Pour the glaze evenly over the sweet potatoes in the baking dish.
• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This keeps the potatoes tender while they absorb all the flavor.
• After 30 minutes, remove the foil and spoon some of the glaze over the top of the yams.
• Bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes, or until the yams are fork-tender and the glaze has thickened.

Step 4: Add Marshmallows (Optional)

• If you’re using marshmallows, sprinkle them on top of the yams during the last 5–10 minutes of baking.
• For that perfectly golden-brown topping, place the dish under the broiler for just a minute or two, watching closely to avoid burning.

Pro Tips and Variations

Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s talk about a few tips and creative variations to elevate your candied yams game. This dish is all about flexibility—so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Make it Ahead

Planning for a holiday meal? Prep these candied yams with cinnamon and nutmeg the night before. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate. When it’s time to serve, bake it right before you’re ready to eat—saving you precious time during the rush of holiday cooking.

Try a Flavor Twist

While the classic cinnamon and nutmeg combo is unbeatable, there’s plenty of room to add your personal touch. Here are a few ideas:

• Orange zest adds a fresh citrusy note that complements the sweetness of the yams.
• A splash of bourbon will give the dish a rich, complex flavor that’s perfect for holiday dinners.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top before baking adds a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft, glazed sweet potatoes.

Go Vegan or Dairy-Free

For a plant-based version, simply swap the unsalted butter for a vegan butter alternative. You’ll still get the creamy texture and rich flavor without any dairy. You can also use maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a more natural sweetness.

Skip the Marshmallows

Not a fan of marshmallows? No worries! The dark brown sugar candied yams will still have plenty of sweetness and depth without them. Keep it classic, or try adding a few crushed graham crackers on top for an alternative crunch.

Best Sweet Potatoes for Candied Yams

The best sweet potatoes for candied yams are the ones that are firm and have a vibrant orange color. Avoid soft, overripe potatoes—they won’t hold their shape as well during baking.

Serving Suggestions

These candied yams are the ultimate side dish that pairs effortlessly with so many flavors. Whether it’s a grand holiday feast or a casual family dinner, this dish is sure to steal the show. Here are a few ideas for serving it up:

• Roasted turkey or chicken: The sweetness of the yams balances perfectly with the savory flavors of roasted meats. It’s a pairing that feels like tradition on every plate.
• Stuffing or dressing: The soft, caramelized texture of the yams is the perfect complement to the savory stuffing. If you’re serving Southern Thanksgiving side dishes, this combo is a must.
• Collard greens, green beans, or Brussels sprouts: A touch of bitterness from greens contrasts beautifully with the sweet, rich yams. It’s the balance of flavors that makes a holiday meal feel complete.
• Cornbread or biscuits: Soft, fluffy bread to scoop up the sweet glaze left behind on the plate—what’s not to love?
• Vegetarian Thanksgiving sides: For a meatless spread, these candied yams are hearty enough to be the star of your plate, alongside a simple salad or roasted vegetables.

While this dish shines during the holidays, it’s also perfect for everyday meals or any gathering where you want to add a bit of comfort and sweetness.

Conclusion

There’s something undeniably special about candied yams—the way they fill the kitchen with warmth and bring everyone to the table. This Best Southern candied yams recipe captures the heart of classic holiday cooking while offering plenty of flexibility to make it your own. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, preparing a Sunday dinner, or simply craving a comforting side dish, these yams are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a dish that tastes like it’s been passed down through generations. The rich, buttery glaze, the perfect blend of spices, and the sweet potatoes—everything comes together in a way that’s both familiar and delightful.

So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try, and let it become a tradition in your home too. Trust us—your family and friends will thank you!

FAQs

Can I freeze candied yams?

Yes! After baking, let your candied yams cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheating leftovers is easy! Just cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F until hot. If you’re in a rush, you can also use the microwave for individual servings, but the oven will keep the glaze nice and thick.

What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?

In the U.S., yams typically refer to the orange-fleshed variety of sweet potatoes used in this dish. True yams are starchier and less sweet, but the sweet potatoes we use for candied yams are what most people think of when they hear the word “yam.”

Can I use regular butter instead of salted?

Yes, you can use regular butter. If you opt for salted butter, you might want to skip adding extra salt to the glaze, as it could make the dish too salty.

Why use vanilla extract in candied yams?

Vanilla extract helps to enhance the natural sweetness of the yams while adding a warm, comforting flavor. It’s that little extra touch that turns an already great dish into something unforgettable.

Recipe Recap

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6
• Calories: 310 per serving (approximate)

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Recipe Classification

• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: Southern, Soul Food
• Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free Friendly
• Method: Baked
• Keywords: Best Southern candied yams recipe, Thanksgiving candied yams with brown sugar, Easy homemade candied yams, Candied yams with cinnamon and nutmeg
• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly