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Classic Southern Candied Yams Thanksgiving Recipe

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Southern Candied Yams are sweet potatoes slow-cooked in a buttery, sweet syrup with warm spices until they’re tender and glazed to perfection, making them a classic soul food favorite for Thanksgiving and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 medium sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
  • 1 stick unsalted butter (1/2 cup)
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
  • 1 orange, juiced

Instructions

  1. Preparation:
  2. Wash, peel, and cut sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
  3. Sauce:
  4. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  5. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and ground cloves. Stir until combined and sugar dissolves.
  6. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract and fresh orange juice. Stir well.
  7. Assembly:
  8. Arrange the sliced sweet potatoes in an even layer in a large baking dish.
  9. Pour the candied syrup mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes, ensuring all pieces are coated.
  10. Bake:
  11. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
  12. Remove foil, baste the sweet potatoes with the sauce, cover again, and continue baking for 15-20 more minutes, or until the yams are tender and glazed.
  13. Finishing:
  14. Let the candied yams sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to thicken.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you may substitute half of the granulated sugar with pure maple syrup. Ensure sweet potatoes are cut evenly for consistent cooking. Letting the yams rest after baking helps the syrup thicken and improves texture.

Find it online: https://www.delicetreats.com/southern-candied-yams-recipe/