Irresistible Candied Yams Recipe with Perfect Pecan Topping

The smell of sweet potatoes caramelizing in the oven, mingling with the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, instantly makes me think of family gatherings around the dinner table. These irresistible candied yams with brown sugar pecan topping are the perfect side dish to accompany any holiday feast or cozy Sunday dinner. I started making this recipe years ago when I wanted to recreate my grandmother’s Thanksgiving favorite, and let me tell you—this version has become a family classic. It’s got everything you want: tender, buttery yams, a sticky-sweet glaze, and that perfect crunchy topping that everyone fights over. Trust me, this dish will have your guests asking for seconds (and thirds!).

What I love most about this dish is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a professional chef to whip up these candied yams, yet they look and taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. They’re the ultimate comfort food—sweet, warm, and indulgent—and the pecan topping takes it to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just want to treat yourself to something special, this recipe is a winner every time. Let me show you how to make your new favorite side dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in about an hour, making it perfect for holiday prep or a last-minute side.
• Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy items; you probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry.
• Perfect for Holidays: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy fall dinner, these candied yams are a crowd-pleaser.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves the combination of sweet, buttery yams and crunchy pecan topping. It’s a guaranteed hit!
• Unbelievably Delicious: The yams are tender, the glaze is rich, and the topping adds just the right amount of texture and crunch.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors. The sweetness of the brown sugar and maple syrup is perfectly complemented by warm spices and a hint of salt. And let’s not forget the pecan topping—it’s a game-changer. The pecans toast up beautifully, adding a nutty, buttery crunch to every bite. Honestly, this isn’t just another candied yams recipe; this is the one you’ll want to make again and again!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This candied yams recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that create a flavor-packed dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fresh Yams: About 3 pounds, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds.
• Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted (adds richness and helps create that caramelized glaze).
• Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed (provides the perfect sweetness and caramel flavor).
• Maple Syrup: 1/4 cup (for that extra depth of sweetness).
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (adds warmth and complements the sweetness).
• Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon (a little goes a long way to bring out the flavors).
• Salt: A pinch (balances the sweetness).
• Pecans: 1 cup, roughly chopped (for that addictively crunchy topping).
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup (helps create a crumbly topping).

If you’re missing any of these ingredients, don’t worry! You can swap fresh yams for sweet potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Coconut sugar works as a great alternative to brown sugar for a slightly different flavor, and honey can replace maple syrup in a pinch.

Equipment Needed

Here are the tools you’ll need to make this irresistible candied yams recipe:

• Vegetable Peeler: To peel the yams easily.
• Sharp Knife: For slicing the yams into even rounds.
• Cutting Board: Choose a sturdy one for precision and safety.
• Mixing Bowls: One for the glaze and one for the pecan topping.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for even cooking.
• Whisk: To mix the glaze smoothly.

If you don’t have a whisk, a fork or spoon will do the trick. And if you’re short on baking dishes, you can use an oven-safe skillet or even divide the yams between smaller pans—just keep an eye on them while baking to ensure even cooking.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Prepare the yams: Peel the yams using a vegetable peeler, then slice them into 1/2-inch rounds. Arrange the slices evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. Make the glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine 4 tablespoons melted butter, 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
4. Coat the yams: Pour the glaze over the yams, making sure each slice is coated evenly. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the glaze if needed.
5. Prepare the pecan topping: In another mixing bowl, combine 1 cup chopped pecans, 4 tablespoons melted butter, and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. Stir until the mixture forms a coarse crumbly texture.
6. Add the topping: Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the glazed yams.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the topping is golden and crisp.
8. Cool slightly: Let the dish cool for about 5 minutes before serving. The glaze will thicken slightly as it rests.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some of my favorite tips to make sure your candied yams turn out perfectly every time:

• Slice evenly: Make sure your yam slices are all the same thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
• Don’t skip the foil: Covering the dish for the first bake keeps the yams moist and prevents the topping from burning.
• Toast the pecans: If you have a few extra minutes, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the topping. It enhances their flavor and adds even more crunch.
• Watch the glaze: Don’t be tempted to overcook the dish uncovered—the glaze can go from golden to burnt quickly. Keep an eye on it!
• Taste your glaze: Before pouring it over the yams, taste the glaze to make sure the sweetness and spices are balanced to your liking.

Variations & Adaptations

• Make it dairy-free: Substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Gluten-free option: Swap the all-purpose flour in the topping for almond flour or gluten-free flour blends.
• Add some fruit: Sprinkle chopped dried cranberries or raisins into the topping for a sweet and tart twist.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to the glaze for a subtle kick of heat.
• Nut-free alternative: Replace the pecans with rolled oats tossed in butter and sugar for a crunchy topping without nuts.

One time, I ran out of pecans and ended up using crushed walnuts instead—they were delicious and added a slightly different texture. This recipe is super adaptable, so feel free to experiment!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These candied yams are best served warm, right out of the oven. They pair beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or any hearty main dish. For a festive touch, sprinkle some fresh rosemary or thyme on top before serving—it adds a pop of color and flavor.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option. The flavors deepen as they sit, so don’t be surprised if they taste even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick rundown of the nutritional benefits of this dish:

• Sweet Potatoes: Packed with fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, they’re a nutrient powerhouse.
• Pecans: These nuts are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making the topping not just tasty but good for you.
• A balanced treat: While this dish is sweet and indulgent, it also contains wholesome ingredients like real maple syrup and natural sweet potatoes—perfect for special occasions.

Keep in mind that this recipe contains butter, pecans, and brown sugar, so enjoy it in moderation if you’re watching your sugar intake or have nut allergies.

Conclusion

If you’ve been searching for the perfect candied yams recipe, you’ve found it! This dish is everything you could want in a side—sweet, buttery, crunchy, and comforting. I love how simple it is to make and how impressive it looks on the table. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, so you can tweak it to your heart’s content.

Ready to give it a try? Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below and let me know if you put your own spin on it. I’d love to hear your ideas! If you make this recipe, tag me on social media—I can’t wait to see your creations. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of yams?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes are a fantastic substitute for yams in this recipe. They’re slightly sweeter and have a softer texture, which works beautifully with the glaze and topping.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

What’s the best way to reheat candied yams?

To retain the crisp topping, reheat the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. For smaller portions, the microwave works too, but the topping might lose some of its crunch.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, honey is a great alternative to maple syrup in this recipe. It adds a slightly different flavor but still provides the sweetness you’re looking for.

How do I make the topping nut-free?

If you need a nut-free option, replace the pecans with rolled oats or crushed graham crackers mixed with butter and sugar. It’ll still be delicious and have a bit of crunch!

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