There’s something magical about Southern candied yams. The way they melt in your mouth, their caramelized sweetness, and the comforting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth to your kitchen like nothing else. Whether it’s for Sunday dinner or a holiday feast, Southern candied yams are a timeless dish that connects generations and tells stories with every bite. Now, imagine making this crowd-pleasing recipe with your own hands—simple, delicious, and guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into it!

Why You’ll Love This Southern Candied Yams Recipe

This recipe isn’t just about cooking—it’s about creating a heartwarming dish that brings people together. The mix of tender yams, warm spices, and sweet, buttery syrup creates a symphony of flavors you won’t forget. Plus, it’s easy to make, even if you don’t consider yourself a pro in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Southern Candied Yams

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to make these heavenly yams:

Ingredient	Amount
Sweet potatoes (yams)	2 lbs
Dark brown sugar	3/4 cup
White sugar	1 cup
Ground cinnamon	2 tsp
Ground nutmeg	1 tsp
Ground ginger	1/4 tsp
Salt	1/4 tsp
Vanilla extract	2 tbsp
Butter	1 stick (1/2 cup)
Orange juice concentrate	4 tbsp (thawed)

These pantry staples come together beautifully to create a dish bursting with flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Southern Candied Yams

Follow these easy instructions, and you’ll have the perfect candied yams in no time.

1. Prepare Your Sweet Potatoes

• Start by scrubbing the yams under running water to remove dirt.
• Peel the sweet potatoes carefully, then slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
• Set the sliced yams aside.

Pro Tip: Use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for uniform slices, ensuring even cooking.

2. Combine Ingredients

• In a medium pot over medium-high heat, place the sliced sweet potatoes.
• Add the brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, vanilla extract, butter, and orange juice concentrate to the pot.
• Stir gently to coat the yams evenly with the sugar and butter mixture.

Why It Works: The combination of sugars caramelizes beautifully, while the orange juice adds a citrusy brightness that balances the dish’s sweetness.

3. Simmer the Yams

• Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil.
• Once boiling, cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the yams simmer for about 50 minutes.
• Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Test for Doneness: Pierce a yam slice with a fork. If it slides through easily, they’re done. If not, let them cook a bit longer.

4. Create the Syrup

• Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium.
• Let the cooking liquid boil uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• The liquid will reduce and thicken into a rich syrup that beautifully coats the yams.

5. Serve Warm

• Remove the pot from the heat. Transfer the candied yams to a serving dish or keep them in the pot and place them in the oven (set to low) to stay warm until ready to serve.
• Serve hot, and enjoy every bite of this Southern classic.

What Makes Southern Candied Yams Special?

The secret to this dish lies in its simplicity and bold flavors. Each ingredient contributes something unique:

• Sweet potatoes: Naturally sweet and packed with nutrients like vitamin A and fiber.
• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add warmth and depth to the dish.
• Butter: Adds richness and enhances the flavor.
• Sugars: Create a caramel-like coating that’s utterly irresistible.
• Orange juice concentrate: Offers a subtle tanginess to balance the sweetness.

This balance of flavors makes Southern candied yams a standout dish on any table.

Tips for the Perfect Candied Yams

1. Don’t Overcook: Overcooked yams can become mushy. Keep an eye on them while simmering.
2. Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices make a noticeable difference in flavor.
3. Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for red or orange-fleshed varieties like Garnet or Jewel—they’re sweeter and creamier.
4. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the white sugar slightly.
5. Double the Recipe: For larger gatherings, double the ingredients, and use a larger pot to ensure even cooking.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for one serving (based on eight servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	285
Total Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	48g
Sugars	40g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Protein	1g

Serving Suggestions

Candied yams are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with:

• Holiday mains: Glazed ham, roasted turkey, or prime rib.
• Classic Southern dishes: Fried chicken, collard greens, or cornbread.
• Everyday meals: Grilled pork chops or roasted vegetables.

Serve them at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even a cozy Sunday dinner.

FAQs About Southern Candied Yams

1. Can I make candied yams ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the yams as directed, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove or in the oven before serving.

2. What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?

In the U.S., “yams” and “sweet potatoes” are often used interchangeably. True yams are starchy tubers found in Africa and Asia, while the orange-fleshed vegetables we use here are sweet potatoes.

3. Can I use maple syrup instead of sugar?

Absolutely! Maple syrup can replace some or all of the sugar for a more natural sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.

4. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for a plant-based version.

5. How long do leftovers last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, candied yams will last up to 3-4 days.

6. Can I freeze candied yams?

Yes! Allow them to cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Conclusion: Bring Comfort to Your Table

Now that you have the perfect Southern candied yams recipe, it’s time to bring this comforting, flavorful dish to your table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just craving something sweet and savory, these yams are sure to delight your family and friends. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor every bite of this Southern classic. You won’t be disappointed.

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