Southern-Style Candied Yams

There’s something truly special about Southern-Style Candied Yams. They’re not just a side dish; they’re a sweet, caramelized tradition that has been passed down through generations. Whether gracing holiday tables or adding warmth to a cozy family dinner, these yams bring a taste of Southern comfort and history with every bite. The tender sweet potatoes, bathed in a rich, buttery glaze, evoke memories of family gatherings, laughter, and the comforting aroma of a home-cooked meal.

Candied yams have roots that trace back to the African diaspora, making them not just a delicious dish but also a cultural bridge connecting histories and flavors. Whether you’re looking to honor a tradition, enjoy a taste of the South, or simply indulge your sweet tooth, these yams are the perfect choice.

Southern-Style Candied Yams

Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Southern staple, perfect for serving 4-6 people:

4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds): Peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick slices. These are the heart of your dish.
1/2 cup unsalted butter: Cut into pieces; this will melt into the syrup, creating that luscious glaze.
1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that beautiful caramelization.
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed: For a deeper, molasses-like flavor that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.
1/4 cup water: Helps dissolve the sugars and create the syrup.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: For that classic spiced flavor.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a hint of nutmeg goes a long way, adding warmth and complexity.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Zest of 1/2 an orange (optional): Adds a subtle brightness that complements the rich sweetness of the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Your Candied Yams
Ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of Southern-style candied yams? Follow these steps for a dish that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
Prep the sweet potatoes: Peel and slice your sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch thick rounds. The even thickness ensures they cook uniformly, becoming perfectly tender.
Step 2: Make the Syrup
Melt the butter: In a large, deep skillet or saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of packed light brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of water.
Add the flavorings: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. If you’re feeling adventurous, zest half an orange into the mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Cook the syrup: Stir the mixture over medium heat until the butter melts and the sugars dissolve, forming a smooth, fragrant syrup.
Step 3: Simmer the Sweet Potatoes