How To Make Candied Yams From Can

Learn how to make candied yams for your next family meal with this simple and delicious candied sweet potatoes recipe. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other occasion, this classic holiday side dish is sure to be a hit with your loved ones.

Traditionally, the recipe for candied yams is often passed down through generations by word of mouth, making it a cherished family secret. However, if you find yourself without access to the original recipe or struggling to recreate it, this easy candied yams recipe is a lifesaver.

Candied Yams Recipe

For this recipe, you will need:

2 (15 oz.) cans of yams
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup (1 stick) butter
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt

Recipe Note: You can double, triple, etc., this recipe if you need to feed a larger crowd during the holidays.

How To Make Candied Yams

Follow these simple steps to prepare delicious candied yams:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Strain off the yams and place them into a small baking dish.
Cut up 1 stick of butter into small chunks and sprinkle them throughout the baking dish.
Sprinkle brown sugar and salt over the yams and butter.
Drizzle vanilla extract over the yams and butter.
Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the yams are soft.

Candied Yams Recipe: Q&A

Here are some common questions about making candied yams:

Do you have any suggestions for add-ins?

If you want to enhance the flavor of your candied yams, consider adding cinnamon, allspice, clove, cayenne pepper, raisins, maple syrup, walnuts, nutmeg, or marshmallows. However, it’s best to choose a few of these options rather than using all of them at once.

Can you make these in advance?

It’s not recommended to make candied yams in advance, especially if you plan to freeze them. They may become watery when reheated, so it’s best to prepare them fresh for serving.

Can you use fresh yams or frozen yams as opposed to canned yams?

Yes, you can use fresh or frozen yams instead of canned yams. The taste should still be delicious, but canned yams are often the most convenient option for many home cooks.

Should I use light or dark brown sugar?

Either light or dark brown sugar can be used in this recipe, so feel free to use whichever you have on hand or prefer.

How did you like this recipe?

Share your thoughts about this holiday classic. Did you enjoy it? Do you have any questions or feedback? Leave a comment below to let us know!

Other recipes you may enjoy

If you love this candied yams recipe, you may also enjoy exploring other delicious recipes for holiday meals and special occasions. Stay tuned for more culinary inspiration!

FAQs

1. Can I make candied yams in advance?

It’s not recommended to make candied yams in advance, especially if you plan to freeze them. They may become watery when reheated, so it’s best to prepare them fresh for serving.

2. Can I use fresh yams instead of canned yams?

Yes, you can use fresh yams or frozen yams instead of canned yams. The taste should still be delicious, but canned yams are often the most convenient option for many home cooks.

3. What are some suggested add-ins for candied yams?

4. Can I use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version?

While it’s not a substitution that has been personally tested, some sources suggest that olive oil can be used instead of butter for a dairy-free version of candied yams. If you try this substitution, please share your experience in the comments.

5. How can I adjust the recipe for a sugar-free variation?

If you prefer a sugar-free variation, some cooks have had success using honey instead of brown sugar in candied yams. However, it’s important to note that this substitution may alter the flavor and texture of the dish, so it’s best to experiment with caution.

6. Can I use different types of nuts in this recipe?

Yes, you can customize the recipe by adding your favorite nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the candied yams for added flavor and texture.