Print

Classic Southern Candied Yams with Buttery Brown Sugar Glaze

Close-up of thick, round slices of southern candied yams glistening with a rich, dark brown sugar glaze.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make authentic Southern Candied Yams with a rich, sticky, caramelized glaze. This classic soul food side dish uses simple ingredients for a comforting holiday favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds yams (sweet potatoes), peeled and sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the yams: Peel the yams and slice them into uniform 1-inch thick rounds.
  2. Arrange the yams in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven in a single layer. If using a baking dish, arrange them snugly in the bottom.
  3. Make the glaze: In a separate saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, water, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Heat the glaze mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter melts and the sugars dissolve completely. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Pour the hot glaze evenly over the yams in the skillet or baking dish.
  6. Cook on the stovetop: Cover the skillet and simmer over low heat for 30 to 40 minutes, turning the yam slices gently every 10 minutes to coat them evenly. The yams should become tender, and the liquid should thicken into a syrup.
  7. Cook by baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using a baking dish, cover it tightly with foil. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, basting the yams with the syrup every 15 minutes.
  8. Once the yams are tender, remove the lid (if baking) or continue simmering uncovered (if stovetop) for the last 5 minutes to allow the glaze to reduce and become sticky.
  9. Stir in the vanilla extract just before serving. Serve the yams warm, spooning extra glaze over the top.

Notes

  • For the best results, use firm, uniform sweet potatoes so they cook evenly.
  • If you prefer a thinner glaze, reduce the cooking time slightly before the final reduction step.
  • You can substitute half of the water with orange juice for a brighter flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://miameal.com/southern-candied-yams/