Pin It This recipe for Candied Yams Mashed with Butter and Cinnamon offers a comforting, sweet-savory side dish. It features tender yams mashed with creamy butter and warm spices, making it a perfect choice for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Pin It The process of mashing yams allows the butter and vanilla to fully infuse the dish, creating a rich and fragrant experience. Whether you garnish with crunchy pecans or keep it simple, this dish provides a delicious balance to any meal.
Ingredients
- Yams: 2 ½ lbs (about 1.1 kg) yams (sweet potatoes), peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
- Butter: 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Sweetener: ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
- Spices: 1 tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, and ½ tsp salt
- Liquid: ¼ cup milk or half-and-half (dairy-free alternatives work well)
- Flavor: 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Garnish (Optional): ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts and 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 smoothest texture, ensure the yams are very tender before draining. Using a hand mixer instead of a potato masher can create a fluffier, whipped result.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use non-dairy milk. If you prefer a different flavor profile, maple syrup can be used to replace the brown sugar.
Serviervorschläge
These candied mashed yams are delicious served alongside roasted meats or as part of a traditional holiday spread. The optional pecan garnish adds a delightful textural contrast.
Pin It With only 45 minutes of total time, these mashed candied yams are an accessible way to bring festive flavor to your table. Enjoy the sweet, spiced warmth of this classic American side dish.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of yams should I use?
Use peeled, chunked sweet potatoes (often called yams) for the best texture and natural sweetness.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use dairy-free milk alternatives.
- → How to achieve smooth mashed yams?
Drain yams well after boiling and mash while still warm; adding milk gradually helps reach a creamy consistency.
- → What spices complement this dish?
Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warm, aromatic flavors that enhance the sweetness without overpowering.
- → Are nuts required for garnish?
Nuts such as pecans or walnuts add a pleasant crunch but can be omitted for allergies or preferences.