Candied Yams Butter Cinnamon (Printable)

Sweet and creamy yams mashed with butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar for a cozy side dish.

# What You Need:

→ Yams

01 - 2.5 pounds yams (sweet potatoes), peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks

→ Flavorings

02 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Garnish

09 - 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, optional
10 - Additional ground cinnamon for sprinkling, optional

# How to Make It:

01 - Place peeled and cubed yams in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until yams are very tender when pierced with a fork.
02 - Drain yams thoroughly and return them to the warm pot.
03 - Add butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, milk, and vanilla extract to the yams.
04 - Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting milk quantity for desired consistency.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
06 - Transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped nuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Classic Sweet-Savory Profile: The blend of light brown sugar and warm spices creates a deeply comforting flavor.
  • Perfect Texture: Mashing the yams with milk and butter results in a smooth, creamy side dish that melts in your mouth.
  • Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common pantry staples, you can have this festive side ready in 45 minutes.
02 -
  • Consistent Mashing: Add the milk gradually while mashing to achieve your perfect level of creaminess without making it too thin.
  • Warm Ingredients: Returning the drained yams to the warm pot helps the butter and sugar melt quickly for easier blending.
  • Toasted Garnish: If using pecans or walnuts, briefly toast them in a dry pan for a few minutes to enhance their crunch and flavor.
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