Candied Yams Bourbon Brown Sugar

A rich and comforting Southern-inspired side dish featuring tender yams glazed with bourbon, brown sugar, and warm spices — perfect for festive gatherings. This recipe is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, ensuring it can be enjoyed by everyone at your table.

Save

The secret to these yams lies in the rich bourbon glaze. As the butter and sugars melt together in the saucepan, the addition of pure vanilla extract and bourbon elevates the flavor profile, transforming simple yams into a standout dish.

Ingredients

• Yams: 4 large yams (about 2 ½ lbs), peeled and cut into 1-inch rounds
• Butter: ½ cup unsalted butter
• Sugar: ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
• Syrup: ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• Bourbon: ¼ cup bourbon
• Spices: 1 tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, ¼ tsp ground ginger, and ¼ tsp salt
• Vanilla: 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Garnish: ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 2

Arrange yam rounds evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4

Pour the glaze evenly over the yams, tossing gently to coat.

Step 5

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Step 6

Remove foil, baste yams with the glaze, and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, or until yams are tender and caramelized.

Step 7

If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For efficient prep, ensure you have a sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board to slice the large yams. Always check labels for hidden allergens in your bourbon and other ingredients to maintain dietary safety. Remember to keep the foil tightly sealed during the first phase of baking to lock in moisture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a lighter version of this dish, you can reduce the butter to ¼ cup and use honey as a substitute for maple syrup. If yams are unavailable in your area, sweet potatoes serve as an excellent alternative and provide a similar texture.

Serviervorschläge

These candied yams pair beautifully with roasted turkey or glazed ham, making them a staple for Thanksgiving or holiday dinners. For a sophisticated beverage pairing, serve this side dish alongside a glass of dry Riesling.

Save

With a total cooking time of one hour, this dish provides 340 calories per serving. The combination of 12g of fat, 55g of carbohydrates, and 2g of protein makes it a satisfying and energy-dense addition to any festive meal.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of yams work best for this dish?

Use large, firm yams peeled and sliced into 1-inch rounds to ensure even cooking and tender texture.

→ Can I substitute sweet potatoes for yams?

Yes, sweet potatoes can replace yams for a similar texture and flavor with slightly sweeter notes.

→ How does the bourbon affect the flavor?

The bourbon adds depth and warmth to the glaze, complementing the sweetness of brown sugar and spices.

→ Is it necessary to cover the yams during baking?

Covering initially helps soften the yams while trapping moisture; uncovering later caramelizes the glaze for a rich finish.

→ What is the purpose of the spices in the glaze?

Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add warmth and complexity, enhancing the natural sweetness of the yams.

→ Can I omit the chopped pecans garnish?

Yes, pecans are optional and add a crunchy contrast, but the dish remains flavorful without them.