If you’re craving a comforting, sweet side dish that’s both simple and irresistibly delicious, this Easy Oven-Baked Candied Yams Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender yams enveloped in a buttery, brown sugar glaze accented by warm cinnamon and nutmeg, this recipe captures the true essence of cozy home cooking. Perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts, it’s a timeless dish that brightens any table with its rich flavor and gorgeous caramelized edges.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Oven-Baked Candied Yams Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to deliver a burst of flavor and lovely texture. Each component plays a vital role: from the creamy butter that adds richness, to the spices that bring warmth and depth, to the yams themselves which soften perfectly in the oven’s heat.
- 4-5 medium yams: Peeled and sliced into rounds to cook evenly and soak up flavors.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that coats every slice.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Melted for that luscious richness that makes each bite heavenly.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Offers a comforting warmth and gentle spice to balance sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds complexity and a subtle aromatic note that elevates the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Brings balance by cutting through the sweetness and enhancing flavors.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps steam the yams so they become tender and succulent.
How to Make Easy Oven-Baked Candied Yams Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by setting your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). A moderate temperature ensures the yams cook thoroughly while allowing the sugar and butter mixture to create that perfect candied glaze without burning.
Step 2: Prepare the Yams
Peel and slice your yams into 1/2-inch thick rounds. This thickness helps the yams cook evenly and absorb the sweet buttery sauce just right.
Step 3: Mix the Sweet Glaze
In a large mixing bowl, toss the yam slices with brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Coat all the slices evenly so every bite gets that balanced burst of flavor and warmth.
Step 4: Grease Your Baking Dish
Use butter or oil to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. This step prevents sticking and gives the bottom layer a delightful crisp edge.
Step 5: Arrange Yams in the Dish
Pour your coated yams into the baking dish, spreading them out in a single layer as much as possible so they cook evenly and caramelize beautifully.
Step 6: Add Water
Pour in 1/2 cup of water around the sides of the dish or over the yams. This creates steam during baking, which helps soften the yams to tender perfection without drying them out.
Step 7: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the steam and ensure moist, tender yams. Bake for 30 minutes – this first phase cooks the yams through.
Step 8: Uncover and Caramelize
Remove the foil and carefully stir the yams to coat them again with the glaze. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for another 15-20 minutes. This dry heat step lets the sugar syrup caramelize, creating a sticky, golden-brown finish.
Step 9: Cool Slightly Before Serving
Once out of the oven, allow the yams to cool for a few minutes. This sets the glaze and makes serving easier, revealing those luscious, tender slices you’ll want to dive into right away.
How to Serve Easy Oven-Baked Candied Yams Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds delightful crunch and a nutty contrast to these soft, sweet yams. For a fresh touch, a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or a light dusting of extra cinnamon can be lovely as well.
Side Dishes
These candied yams shine alongside classic roasted turkey, baked ham, or grilled chicken. They are a beloved side for holiday meals but also an excellent companion to more casual dishes like pork chops or even a hearty grain bowl.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering these yams in a casserole topped with marshmallows for a traditional twist or serve them in small ramekins for individual portions at gatherings. Drizzle extra melted butter and a little maple syrup before serving to make them extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier.
Freezing
If you want to make this dish ahead of time for busy days, freeze cooled yams in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw fully in the refrigerator before reheating to keep their texture intact.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave when possible to keep them from becoming too mushy, letting the glaze regain its sticky goodness.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of yams for this recipe?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes are often used interchangeably with yams in many recipes and will work wonderfully here, providing similar texture and sweetness.
Is it necessary to peel the yams?
Peeling ensures a smooth texture and better absorption of the glaze, but if you prefer a more rustic feel and don’t mind the skin, you can leave it on after thorough washing.
How do I know when the yams are done baking?
You want the yams to be tender when pierced with a fork and caramelized on top. The covered baking softens them first, then the uncovered finishing step creates the perfect glaze.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and the dish will remain just as delicious and dairy-free.
What’s the best way to avoid the sugar syrup from burning?
Keeping the dish covered for the first 30 minutes traps steam and prevents the sugar from burning, while stirring midway through the uncovered bake helps distribute the glaze evenly.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Easy Oven-Baked Candied Yams Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire. It’s a dish that brings warmth, sweetness, and a little bit of magic to any meal. Don’t hesitate to give it a go—you’re in for a deliciously comforting treat that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
