Candied Yams Butter Cinnamon (Printable Version)

Tender yams blended with butter, warm cinnamon, and brown sugar for a smooth, flavorful side.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Yams

01 - 2.5 lbs 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
10 - Additional cinnamon for sprinkling

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Place peeled and cubed yams in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
02 - 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.
03 - Drain yams thoroughly and return them to the warm pot.
04 - Add butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, milk, and vanilla extract to the yams.
05 - Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting milk for desired consistency.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
07 - Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped nuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Serve warm.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
  • Velvety smooth texture from proper mashing technique
  • Warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg provide comforting aromatics
  • Simple to prepare but impressive on the table
  • Versatile side dish that pairs with holiday meals or weeknight dinners
02 -
  • For extra flavor, toast the chopped nuts before using them as garnish
  • Choose yams with deep orange flesh for the most vibrant color
  • For a smoother texture, pass the cooked yams through a food mill before adding other ingredients
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
  • Reheat gently with a splash of extra milk to restore creaminess
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