As the festive season approaches, the kitchen fills with the irresistible scents of tradition and warmth. One dish that never fails to create a buzz is my Kwanzaa Candied Yams. I first made them during a family gathering, and the moment the warm, syrupy aroma wafted through the house, everyone gravitated toward the oven, eager to taste the sweet delight that was bubbling away. These Southern-style candied yams combine the richest sweet potatoes with an indulgent syrup, kissed with spices and a splash of bourbon.
This recipe captures the essence of celebration with every tender bite, making it not just a side dish but a centerpiece of any holiday feast. Whether paired with savory roast or enjoyed on their own, these yams promise to be a memorable addition to your table. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a dish that brings comfort and joy, one sweet potato at a time!
Why love Kwanzaa Candied Yams?
Comforting, Sweet Flavor: The blend of sweet potatoes and rich syrup creates a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements savory dishes.
Spiced to Perfection: Infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, each bite offers a cozy, aromatic experience.
Easily Customized: Whether you want to add toasted nuts or switch sweet potatoes, this recipe welcomes your personal touch.
Instant Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at family gatherings or holiday celebrations, everyone will be asking for seconds.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prep these yams up to three days in advance more time to relax and enjoy the festivities!
Kwanzaa Candied Yams Ingredients
For the Yams
• Medium Yams (about 3 lb.) – The star of the dish; choose firm and blemish-free ones for the best results.
• Unsalted Butter – Essential for greasing the baking dish and adding a rich flavor to the syrup.
• Dark Brown Sugar – Adds depth and sweetness; can be swapped with light brown sugar if preferred.
For the Syrup
• Fresh Orange Juice – This zesty ingredient brightens the syrup; always opt for freshly squeezed for the best taste.
• Bourbon (optional) – This adds a warm, rich flavor to the syrup; feel free to leave it out for a non-alcoholic version.
• Cinnamon Stick – Gives a lovely aromatic infusion; ground cinnamon can work in a pinch, but fresh is best.
• Grated Fresh Nutmeg – Elevates the flavor profile significantly; use powdered nutmeg if fresh isn’t available.
• Kosher Salt – Just a pinch enhances the sweetness; make sure it’s not too coarse.
These Kwanzaa Candied Yams are sure to become a family favorite at your holiday table!
How to Make Kwanzaa Candied Yams
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven temperature to 400°F, getting it nice and hot while you prepare the ingredients. This ensures even cooking of your candied yams.
- Prepare the syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine dark brown sugar, fresh orange juice, unsalted butter, cinnamon stick, bourbon, grated nutmeg, and a pinch of kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Don’t forget to remove the cinnamon stick!
- Slice the yams: Carefully peel the medium yams and slice them into 1/2″-thick rounds. Aim for even slices to promote uniform cooking and tenderness.
- Grease the baking dish: Generously grease a 13″ x 9″ baking dish with unsalted butter, ensuring the yams won’t stick.
- Layer the yams: Arrange the yam slices in the greased baking dish, overlapping them slightly for even syrup coverage. This helps to soak up all those delicious flavors.
- Add the syrup: Pour the warm syrup over the layered yams, making sure each slice is generously coated. Then, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake the yams: Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil, and bake for an additional 50-60 minutes, basting the yams with syrup every 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they are tender and glazed, shimmering with sweetness.
- Cool and serve: Allow the candied yams to cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
Optional: Garnish with toasted pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Kwanzaa Candied Yams
Feel free to make these delicious candied yams your own with some delightful twists and swaps!
- Sweet Potato Swap: Replace yams with sweet potatoes for a lighter flavor and slightly different texture. It’s a lovely alternative that still delivers on sweetness.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch. This adds both flavor and texture, making each bite even more delightful.
- Maple Syrup: Instead of dark brown sugar, use maple syrup for a distinct flavor. It brings a warm earthiness to the dish that compliments the sweet potatoes beautifully.
- Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. This unexpected twist brightens the dish and excites the palate.
- Citrus Zest: Enhance the orange juice with some zest from the orange for an extra burst of citrus flavor. It elevates the syrup’s brightness, making it even more refreshing.
- Coconut Milk: For a creamier texture and a unique flavor, substitute half of the butter with coconut milk. This offers a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the yams.
- Reduce Sugar: If you’re looking for a healthier version, reduce the sugar by half and substitute with stevia or honey to maintain sweetness without all the calories.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving for an indulgent finish. It adds an extra layer of sweetness that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Embrace your creativity and make these Kwanzaa Candied Yams your own!
Make Ahead Options
These Kwanzaa Candied Yams are perfect for busy holiday planners! You can prepare the yams and syrup up to 3 days in advance. Simply peel and slice the medium yams, then layer them in a greased baking dish. Pour the cooled syrup over the yams, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake the yams directly from the fridge at 400°F for about 15 minutes longer than the original cooking time, basting them every 15 minutes for that deliciously rich glaze. Rest assured, they’ll be just as sweet and tender, saving you precious time on the day of your gathering!
What to Serve with Kwanzaa Candied Yams?
Looking to build a delightful festive meal around your sweet, syrupy yams? Here are some perfect pairings to excite your taste buds.
- Savory Roasted Turkey: The succulent, savory notes of roasted turkey contrast beautifully with the sweet warmth of the yams, creating a balanced plate.
- Southern Collard Greens: Adding a splash of vibrant greens brings a hint of earthiness and a touch of bitterness that perfectly complements the rich sweetness of the yams.
- Fluffy Cornbread: This classic Southern staple is perfect for soaking up the syrupy goodness from the yams, and its crumbly texture provides delightful contrast.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce enhances the sweet flavor of the yams, creating a beautiful harmony on your holiday plate.
- Apple-Cinnamon Cider: Warm apple cider spiced with cinnamon not only warms the soul but also echoes the flavors in the candied yams, making it a cozy drink to enjoy.
- Pecan Pie: For dessert, a slice of pecan pie brings a nutty richness that pairs wonderfully with the soft sweetness of yams, sealing the meal with a festive finish.
Tips for the Best Kwanzaa Candied Yams
- Consistent Slicing: Ensure you slice the yams evenly for uniform cooking. Inconsistent sizes can lead to some yams being overcooked while others remain firm.
- Basting is Key: Baste the yams with syrup every 15 minutes during baking. This step ensures they absorb the delicious flavor and caramelize beautifully.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly squeezed orange juice and whole spices like cinnamon sticks and grated nutmeg. Fresh ingredients elevate the overall taste of your Kwanzaa Candied Yams.
- Preparing Ahead: You can make these candied yams up to three days in advance. Store them in the fridge and reheat in the oven to save time on the big day.
- Watch the Broil: For an extra caramelized topping, broil the yams for a few minutes after baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, as this can happen quickly!
How to Store and Freeze Kwanzaa Candied Yams
Fridge: Store covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the sweet potatoes moist and ready to reheat.
Freezer: If you want to store for later, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil, to restore tenderness.
Make-Ahead: Preparing these Kwanzaa Candied Yams ahead of time is a great way to ease stress during the holidays.
Kwanzaa Candied Yams Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting yams?
Choose medium yams that are firm and free from blemishes. A shiny skin with no dark spots indicates freshness. This is essential for the best texture and flavor in your Kwanzaa Candied Yams.
How can I store leftover candied yams?
Store the yams covered in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep them moist and flavorful. Simply reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Can I freeze Kwanzaa Candied Yams?
Absolutely! Pour cooled yams into a freezer-safe container and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
What if my syrup doesn’t thicken?
If the syrup isn’t thickening, let it simmer longer sometimes up to 15 minutes works wonders. Make sure to keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a thicker syrup, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the simmering syrup for added thickness.
Can I make Kwanzaa Candied Yams without bourbon?
Definitely! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the bourbon. You can replace it with an additional splash of fresh orange juice to maintain a bright flavor in the syrup.
Are there any dietary considerations for Kwanzaa Candied Yams?
Yes, be mindful of allergies! The recipe contains butter and might not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free spread.
Kwanzaa Candied Yams: Sweeten Your Holiday Feast Now
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- In a medium saucepan, combine dark brown sugar, fresh orange juice, unsalted butter, cinnamon stick, bourbon, grated nutmeg, and kosher salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Peel the medium yams and slice them into 1/2"-thick rounds.
- Generously grease a 13" x 9" baking dish with unsalted butter.
- Arrange the yam slices in the baking dish, overlapping slightly.
- Pour the warm syrup over the yams and cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 50-60 minutes, basting every 15 minutes.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.