Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. This recipe is forgiving. Making it ahead often makes serving easier and lets the flavors settle naturally. Keep covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

How do I know when the yams are done?

They are done when a fork slides into a center slice with little resistance. The covered bake softens them; the uncovered finish gives a slight caramel on the edges. Check at the end of the covered time and adjust as needed.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes. You can reduce the granulated sugar slightly or cut back on brown sugar for a less sweet version. Remember the glaze will be less thick, but the dish will still be flavorful.

What pan should I use?

Use a small baking dish that allows a snug single layer of slices for even cooking. Ceramic or glass holds heat steadily; metal gives a bit more edge caramelization. Either works well if you adjust timing.

Will this work with other root vegetables?

Sweet potatoes are ideal for their natural sweetness and texture. But you can try a mix with regular potatoes and a bit more sugar, or use yams with similar density. Cooking times will vary with density.

Southern Candied Yams 2026 - Easy Fresh Recipes

Name: Southern Candied Yams
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 3 sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs); 5 tbsp salted Butter; 1 tsp Cinnamon; ¼ tsp Nutmeg; ½ cup Brown sugar; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp Vanilla extract

Description

A comforting and simple dish of sweet potatoes glazed in butter and sugar, baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

3 sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
5 tbsp salted Butter
1 tsp Cinnamon
¼ tsp Nutmeg
½ cup Brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp Vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place a rack in the center.
Peel, rinse, and slice the sweet potatoes into ½ inch to 1 inch thick circles.
Grease a baking dish with butter.
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then reduce heat and add sugars, spices, and vanilla. Stir until glossy.
Pour the mixture over the sweet potatoes and cover with foil.
Bake for 45 minutes covered, then uncover, mix, and increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for an additional 15 minutes.
Allow to cool slightly and serve warm.

Notes

Adjust the spices and sugars according to personal preference. This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated gently.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg