Daily Food

Best-Ever Candied Yams

Though candied yams might be super sweet on their own, they're the perfect complement to a plateful of savory holiday mains. Our version gets an added kick from bourbon—we think once you try them you'll never want yams without it!

Ingredients

1/2 c. dark brown sugar
1/2 c. orange juice
3 tbsp. butter, plus more for pan
1 cinnamon stick
2 tbsp. bourbon (optional) 
Pinch nutmeg
Pinch kosher salt
5 medium yams (about 3 lb.)

Directions

Step 1
Preheat oven to 400°. Butter a medium baking dish. 

Step 2
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, orange juice, butter, cinnamon stick, bourbon if using, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to combine and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until it has thickened slightly, about 10 minutes. When reduced, remove and discard cinnamon stick.

Step 3
Meanwhile, prep potatoes: Peel potatoes and slice into 1/2" rounds, then layer in prepared baking dish. Pour thickened syrup over potatoes and cover dish with aluminum foil. 

Step 4
Bake 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake about 50 minutes to 1 hour more, basting with sauce every 15 minutes. 

Step 5
Let cool slightly before serving.