Chef johns candied yams –Warm, comforting, and delightful, Southern Candied Yams are a timeless dish that will transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with the aroma of sweet spices. This old-fashioned soul food recipe is often a highlight during family gatherings and celebrations. Let’s dive into this classic dish that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Southern Candied Yams
Take a look at these scrumptious Southern Candied Yams!

Ingredients
To get started, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large sweet potatoes
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup orange juice
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the most delightful candied yams:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into thick slices, about 1/2 inch each. Make sure they are evenly cut for consistent cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Add the sliced sweet potatoes into the bowl and gently toss them until they are fully coated with the sweet mixture.
- Pour the orange juice over the sweet potatoes, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading the yams evenly across the dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and let the yams bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, basting them with their own syrup halfway through.
- Once they are tender and golden, take them out of the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Serve these decadent candied yams as a side dish at your next gathering or enjoy them as a sweet treat any day of the week. Their sweet and buttery flavor will surely become a favorite in your household!