Candied Yams with Butter Cinnamon (Printable)

Sweet-savory mashed yams blended with butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar for a comforting side.

# 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
10 - Additional cinnamon for sprinkling

# How to Make It:

01 - Place peeled and cubed yams in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until yams are very tender when pierced with a fork.
02 - Drain the yams thoroughly through a colander and return them to the warm pot.
03 - Add butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, milk, and vanilla extract to the drained yams.
04 - Mash yams until smooth and creamy using a potato masher or hand mixer. Adjust milk quantity to achieve desired consistency.
05 - Taste the mashed yams and adjust seasoning as needed.
06 - Transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped nuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Serve warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Warm and aromatic flavors from cinnamon and nutmeg.
  • Velvety smooth texture with a hint of brown sugar sweetness.
  • Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, with easy vegan adaptations.
02 -
  • Thoroughly drain the yams to prevent a watery mash.
  • Adjust the milk or half-and-half slowly to reach your preferred creaminess.
  • For nut allergies, omit the pecans and simply use a sprinkle of cinnamon for garnish.
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