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Easy Skillet Candied Yams Recipe with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Perfect for Holidays

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A quick and fuss-free skillet recipe for sweet, sticky, and tender candied yams with brown sugar and cinnamon, perfect for holiday dinners and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large yams (about 2 pounds / 900 grams), peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup (100 grams) packed brown sugar (dark brown sugar preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt
  • ½ cup (120 ml) water
  • Optional: A pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange juice

Instructions

  1. Peel and chop the yams into 1-inch cubes, keeping pieces uniform for even cooking (about 10 minutes).
  2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Set aside nutmeg or orange juice if using.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add melted butter. Once bubbly and fragrant (about 1 minute), add cubed yams and stir to coat.
  4. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the yams. Pour in ½ cup water and vanilla extract, then gently stir to combine.
  5. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and cook over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until yams are fork-tender but not mushy.
  6. Remove the lid, increase heat to medium-high, and cook for another 5–8 minutes, stirring often until the liquid reduces and thickens into a sticky glaze with some caramelized edges. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add a splash of orange juice now if desired and stir through. Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes to thicken the glaze.

Notes

Use medium-low to medium heat to prevent sugar burning. Cover skillet to steam yams for tenderness. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Adding water helps soften yams and prevents burning. Stir gently to avoid breaking yams. Optional additions include nutmeg, orange juice, maple syrup, or bourbon for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: candied yams, brown sugar yams, cinnamon yams, holiday side dish, easy yams recipe, skillet yams, sweet potatoes, holiday recipes

Find it online: https://ariaappetite.com/easy-skillet-candied-yams-recipe-with-brown-sugar-and-cinnamon-perfect-for-holidays/