Candied Yams with Butter Cinnamon

Experience the ultimate comfort food with these Candied Yams Mashed with Butter and Cinnamon. This sweet-savory side dish transforms simple root vegetables into a velvety, fragrant delight. Infused with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and creamy butter, these mashed yams are designed to bring a touch of holiday warmth to any meal, whether it is a cozy weekday dinner or a grand festive feast.

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Mashing yams instead of roasting them whole allows every spoonful to be infused with the aromatic blend of cinnamon and vanilla. The addition of a light garnish of pecans provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft, pillowy texture of the mash.

Ingredients

• Yams: 2 ½ lbs (about 1.1 kg) yams (sweet potatoes), peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
• Flavorings: 4 tbsp unsalted butter, ⅓ cup light brown sugar (packed), 1 tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, ½ tsp salt, ¼ cup milk or half-and-half (use dairy-free if preferred), 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Garnish (optional): ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, additional cinnamon for sprinkling

Instructions

Step 1

Place the peeled and cubed yams in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a pinch of salt.

Step 2

Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the yams are very tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 3

Drain the yams thoroughly and return them to the warm pot.

Step 4

Add butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, milk, and vanilla extract to the yams.

Step 5

Mash until smooth and creamy, adjusting milk for desired consistency.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7

Transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped nuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best results, use a large pot for boiling and a reliable colander to drain all excess water before mashing. For a perfectly smooth consistency, you can use a potato masher for a rustic feel or a hand mixer for a more whipped, airy texture. Serving the dish in a warm bowl helps maintain its velvety profile during the meal.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version of this dish, simply substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and use your favorite non-dairy milk. If you are looking for a different depth of flavor, maple syrup can be used as a delicious replacement for the brown sugar. These small changes allow you to adapt the recipe to any dietary preference or pantry availability.

Serviervorschläge

These candied mashed yams are absolutely delicious when served alongside roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or ham. They also serve as a standout component of a traditional holiday spread, providing a vibrant color and sweet-savory profile that complements savory gravy and stuffing perfectly.

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Each serving of this comforting side dish contains approximately 210 calories, 6g of total fat, 38g of carbohydrates, and 2g of protein. Note that this recipe contains dairy (butter and milk) and may contain tree nuts if the optional garnish is applied. Always prioritize safety by using appropriate substitutes for known allergies.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I tell when yams are fully cooked?

Yams are done when a fork pierces them easily and they feel very tender without resistance.

→ Can I substitute dairy ingredients for non-dairy alternatives?

Yes, plant-based margarine and dairy-free milk can replace butter and milk for a vegan-friendly version.

→ What nuts work best for garnish?

Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch and complement the warm spices well.

→ How can I adjust sweetness levels?

Adjust brown sugar amounts or substitute with maple syrup to taste for varying sweetness.

→ Is it necessary to peel yams before cooking?

Peeling yams ensures smooth texture when mashed and avoids any bitterness from the skin.