Candied Yams Butter Cinnamon (Print)

Tender yams mashed with butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar for a sweet-savory side dish.

# 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, optional
10 - Ground cinnamon for sprinkling, optional

# Directions:

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 tender when pierced with a fork.
02 - Drain yams thoroughly using a colander 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 using a potato masher or hand mixer, adjusting milk as needed to achieve desired consistency.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
06 - Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped nuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Holiday Classic: Captures the traditional flavor of candied yams in a smooth, mashed format.
  • Quick Prep: Takes only 15 minutes to prepare before simmering.
  • Dietary Friendly: Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free to accommodate various guests.
  • Rich Flavor: Infused with real butter, brown sugar, and a hint of vanilla.
02 -
  • Consistency Check: Add the milk or half-and-half gradually to ensure you reach your preferred level of creaminess without over-thinning.
  • Nutty Crunch: Toast the pecan or walnut garnish in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes before adding for extra flavor and texture.
  • Even Cooking: Ensure your yam chunks are uniform in size (about 2 inches) so they all reach tenderness at the same time.
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