Introduction to The BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce
Welcome to a cozy corner of my kitchen, where I’m excited to share with you the BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce! This dish is a delightful blend of sweet and tender yams, enveloped in a rich caramel sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or just want to impress your loved ones on a busy weeknight, this recipe is your go-to solution. Trust me, these yams will become a cherished favorite in your home, bringing warmth and joy to every meal!
Why You’ll Love This The BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce
These candied yams are not just a side dish; they’re a sweet hug on a plate! They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time, which is perfect for busy moms like us. The rich caramel sauce adds a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they bake to perfection while you focus on other holiday dishes, making your life just a little easier!
Ingredients for The BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating the BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Yams: The star of the show! Choose large, firm yams for the best texture and sweetness.
- Brown Sugar: This adds that rich sweetness and caramel flavor. You can use light or dark brown sugar, depending on your preference.
- Unsalted Butter: It brings a creamy richness to the sauce. If you’re watching your sodium intake, unsalted is the way to go.
- Water: Helps to create the sauce. You can substitute with orange juice for a fruity twist!
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Cinnamon: This spice brings a cozy aroma and pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the yams.
- Nutmeg: Just a pinch enhances the overall flavor, giving it that holiday feel.
For those who like to experiment, consider adding a splash of bourbon for a richer flavor. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to suit your taste. If you want to prepare ahead, these yams can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing!
How to Make The BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your yams bake evenly. No one wants mushy or undercooked yams, right? So, while you prepare the ingredients, let the oven do its thing!
Step 2: Prepare the Yams
Now, it’s time to tackle those yams! Start by peeling them carefully. I like to use a vegetable peeler for a smooth finish. Once peeled, cut the yams into uniform chunks, about 1 to 2 inches. This helps them cook evenly. Remember to keep your fingers safe while chopping—no one wants a kitchen mishap!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large pot, combine your yams with brown sugar, butter, water, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir everything together until the yams are well coated. The butter will melt, and the sugar will start to dissolve, creating a sweet, inviting aroma. It’s like a warm hug in a pot!
Step 4: Boil the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You want the sugar to dissolve completely and the yams to soften slightly. After about 10 minutes, you should see bubbles forming, and the sauce will start to thicken. This is the magic moment!
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Carefully transfer the yams and sauce into a baking dish. I like to use a 9×13 inch dish for this recipe. Make sure to scrape all that delicious sauce from the pot—it’s liquid gold! Spread the yams out evenly so they bake uniformly.
Step 6: Bake the Yams
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let those yams bake for about 45 minutes. Every 15 minutes, take a moment to baste the yams with the caramel sauce. This keeps them moist and enhances the flavor. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender and the sauce is bubbling beautifully!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the yams cool for a few minutes. This helps the sauce thicken a bit more. Trust me, the wait is worth it! Serve them warm, and watch as your family digs in with delight. These yams are sure to steal the show!
Tips for Success
- Always choose firm yams for the best texture.
- Don’t skip the basting! It keeps the yams moist and flavorful.
- For a deeper flavor, let the yams sit in the sauce for a few minutes before serving.
- Feel free to adjust spices to suit your taste—more cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the dish!
- Use a glass baking dish for easy monitoring of the caramelization process.
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot: A sturdy pot for boiling the yams. A Dutch oven works great too!
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch dish is ideal. You can also use a casserole dish.
- Vegetable Peeler: For peeling yams. A sharp knife can work in a pinch.
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the mixture. A spatula can also do the job!
Variations of The BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce
- Maple Syrup Twist: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor that adds a hint of earthiness.
- Nutty Crunch: Top the yams with chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for a delightful crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger for a surprising spicy twist that complements the sweetness.
- Vegan Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk instead of water for a vegan-friendly version.
- Fruit Fusion: Mix in some diced apples or pears for added sweetness and texture, creating a fruity medley.
Serving Suggestions for The BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce
- Pair with Roasted Turkey: These yams complement the savory flavors of turkey beautifully.
- Serve with Green Beans: The freshness of green beans balances the sweetness of the yams.
- Drizzle with Extra Caramel: For a show-stopping presentation, drizzle more caramel sauce on top before serving.
- Enjoy with Apple Cider: A warm glass of apple cider enhances the cozy vibe of this dish.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary adds a pop of color and flavor.
FAQs about The BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce
Can I make The BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the yams a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pop them in the oven to reheat. This makes it a breeze for holiday gatherings!
What can I substitute for yams?
If you can’t find yams, sweet potatoes work wonderfully as a substitute. They have a similar sweetness and texture, making them a great alternative for this recipe.
How do I store leftovers of The BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?
Yes! You can use maple syrup or honey as a natural sweetener. Just remember that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What should I serve with The BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce?
These yams pair beautifully with roasted meats, like turkey or ham. They also complement green vegetables, creating a balanced plate that everyone will love!
Final Thoughts
Making The BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce is more than just a recipe; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings family and friends together. The sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen will evoke memories of cherished gatherings and joyful celebrations. Each bite is a reminder of the love and care you put into your cooking. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, these yams will surely steal the spotlight. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and let these delightful yams create sweet moments in your home!
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The BEST Candied Yams – Oven Baked with Caramel Sauce Today!
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously sweet and tender candied yams baked in a rich caramel sauce, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 large yams, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, combine yams, brown sugar, butter, water, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the yams and sauce to a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, basting occasionally with the sauce.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of bourbon to the sauce.
- Can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg