I can still see Nonna’s kitchen in my mind; steam fogging up the windows and the warm scent of butter, sugar, and sweet potatoes filling every corner. When I make Southern candied yams today, it’s like she’s right there with me, her wooden spoon tapping the pot just to remind me to taste before I serve. This dish isn’t just about sweetness, it’s about comfort, nostalgia, and family. These tender, buttery yams, caramelized in a rich syrup, belong on every Southern table, right next to your roasted sweet potatoes. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or Thanksgiving, this timeless side dish brings everyone closer with its warmth and charm.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Southern candied yams are more than just glazed sweet potatoes, they’re a memory on a plate. You’ll love this recipe because it’s simple, yet so deeply flavorful. Every bite is melt-in-your-mouth tender with that golden-brown glaze that clings beautifully to each piece. You don’t need fancy ingredients, and it all comes together in one pan.
What makes this version stand out is the balance; sweet but not cloying, buttery but not greasy. The cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla work together to create that signature Southern soul flavor. It pairs perfectly with savory side dishes like Mashed Potatoes, adding a touch of sweetness that completes the meal.
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Southern Candied Yams
Classic Southern Candied Yams made with butter, brown sugar, and warm spices for a sweet, buttery side dish that melts in your mouth.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
4 medium sweet potatoes
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup water
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Peel and slice sweet potatoes into thick rounds.
2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Stir in brown sugar, white sugar, water, and spices until smooth.
4. Add the sliced yams, gently coating each piece with syrup.
5. Cover and simmer 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Uncover and cook another 10 minutes to thicken the glaze.
7. Add vanilla, stir gently, and serve warm.
Notes
For added flavor, drizzle a splash of orange juice into the syrup.
Top with toasted pecans or mini marshmallows before serving.
These candied yams reheat beautifully for leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Ingredients
To make these authentic Southern candied yams, you’ll need just a handful of pantry staples:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh sweet potatoes | 4 medium |
| Butter | ½ cup (1 stick) |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Nutmeg | ¼ tsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Water | ¼ cup |
| Salt | Pinch |
For a little twist, you can also sprinkle in a dash of ground ginger or top it with toasted pecans for crunch; because Southern cooking always leaves room for a personal touch.
How to Make Southern Candied Yams
- Prep the yams: Peel and slice your sweet potatoes into thick rounds. You want them sturdy enough to hold shape as they cook.
- Make the syrup: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, granulated sugar, water, and spices. Mix until everything dissolves into a smooth caramel-like syrup.
- Simmer the yams: Add the sliced sweet potatoes, turning gently so they’re coated in the syrup. Cover and let them cook for 20–25 minutes until fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Caramelize and thicken: Uncover the pan and continue cooking for 10 minutes to thicken the glaze. The syrup should cling to the yams beautifully, glistening like amber.
If you love a good Southern feast, these yams pair perfectly with Thanksgiving stuffing and a warm slice of cornbread.
Tips and Variations
- Add a citrus twist: A splash of orange juice adds brightness that balances the sweetness.
- Make them marshmallow-topped: For a more festive version, add mini marshmallows in the last five minutes and let them melt over the top.
- Try oven-baked style: Layer the yams in a baking dish, pour the syrup over, and bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes.
- Serve with savory sides: These candied yams complement green bean casserole or glazed carrots perfectly.
Pro tip: Always taste your syrup before it finishes cooking. It should be rich and buttery, not overly sweet or burnt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between sweet potatoes and yams?
True yams are starchier and less sweet. What we call “yams” in the U.S. are usually orange-fleshed sweet potatoes; the ones perfect for this dish.
Can I make Southern candied yams ahead of time?
Yes! They reheat beautifully. Just warm them in a skillet or oven and spoon the glaze over to revive that shine.
Can I use canned yams instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh gives better texture. If you do use canned, drain them well and reduce the cooking time to about 10 minutes.
What should I serve with candied yams?
They pair wonderfully with Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast or even classic Roasted Turkey for a cozy and hearty Thanksgiving dinner.
Final Thoughts
Southern candied yams are pure comfort, a sweet side dish that bridges generations and brings soul to every meal. The soft, buttery potatoes coated in rich caramelized syrup taste like home. When you serve these alongside roasted turkey or cornbread, you’re not just feeding people, you’re sharing warmth, love, and legacy. Like Nonna taught me, food isn’t about perfection; it’s about care. That’s exactly what these yams are: care on a plate.
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