Looking for a warm, sweet side dish that brings comfort to any dinner table? Candied Yams are the perfect choice! These yams are coated in a rich brown sugar syrup and baked until tender, with an optional marshmallow topping that adds extra sweetness and a fluffy, golden finish. This dish is ideal for family dinners, especially during the holidays.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized yams (or sweet potatoes), peeled and sliced into rounds
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 cup mini marshmallows for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the yams: Peel and slice the yams into about 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Make the syrup: In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, melted butter, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth.
- Layer the yams: Arrange the sliced yams in a baking dish.
- Pour the syrup: Evenly pour the syrup over the yams, making sure they’re all coated.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and finish baking: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the syrup has thickened.
- Optional marshmallow topping: For extra sweetness, sprinkle mini marshmallows on top of the yams during the last 5 minutes of baking and let them brown lightly.
- Serve: Let the candied yams cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy these delicious, sweet, and buttery candied yams as a perfect side dish.