Nothing brings comfort to the table quite like Southern candied yams. This classic soul-food side dish features tender sweet potatoes baked in a rich, buttery brown sugar glaze infused with warm spices and vanilla. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, Sunday dinner, or a cozy family meal, this recipe delivers deep flavor, nostalgic warmth, and crowd-pleasing sweetness in every bite.

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Perfectly caramelized and melt-in-your-mouth soft, these baked candied yams prove that simple ingredients can create unforgettable results.

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Ingredients

3 medium sweet potatoes (about 1½ pounds), peeled and sliced
5 tablespoons salted butter
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions for Southern Candied Yams

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish with butter.
Arrange the sliced sweet potatoes evenly in the dish.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.
Stir continuously for about 3 minutes until smooth and glossy.
Pour the glaze evenly over the sweet potatoes, gently tossing to coat.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove foil, gently stir, increase oven temperature to 425°F, and bake uncovered for 15 more minutes until caramelized.
Remove from oven, let rest briefly, and serve warm.

Pro Tips

Slice sweet potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Use a snug baking dish to prevent excess liquid.
For deeper flavor, baste the yams with the glaze during the final bake.
A splash of fresh orange juice can brighten the sweetness.

Why This Recipe Works

Uses fresh sweet potatoes for natural sweetness
Balanced sugar blend creates a smooth, syrupy glaze
Oven-baking enhances caramelization without burning
Warm spices add classic Southern depth and aroma

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Substitutions & Variations

Swap nutmeg for allspice or cloves for a spicier note
Use dark brown sugar for a richer molasses flavor
Add sliced oranges for a citrus-infused variation
Top with marshmallows during the last 5 minutes if desired

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead: Prepare and bake up to 2 days in advance
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Reheating:
- Oven: 350°F for 15–20 minutes
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals until warm

Serving Ideas for Southern Candied Yams

Serve these candied yams alongside:

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Baked macaroni and cheese
Smothered pork chops
Roast turkey or jerk turkey breast
Cornbread dressing or collard greens

They’re perfect for holidays, potlucks, or comforting weeknight dinners.

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: ~430
Carbohydrates: ~74g
Fat: ~14g
Protein: ~3g
Fiber: ~5g
Sugar: ~46g

Values are approximate and may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Southern candied yams ahead of time?

Yes, they reheat beautifully and often taste even better the next day.

Are yams and sweet potatoes the same?

Technically no, but in many Southern kitchens, sweet potatoes are traditionally called “yams.”

Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes—just add a small pinch of salt to the glaze.

Why is my sauce too thin?

Bake uncovered longer and baste the yams to help thicken the syrup.

This Southern candied yams recipe is proof that timeless comfort food never goes out of style. With tender sweet potatoes, a buttery spiced glaze, and easy preparation, it’s a dependable favorite that belongs on every table—holiday or not.