Ina Garten Candied Yams Recipe

The Ina Garten candied yams recipe is sweet, soft and perfect for holidays. I love this recipe because it tastes rich but is easy to make. The yams cook until tender and are coated in a buttery, brown sugar glaze.

This Ina Garten candied yams recipe is great for Thanksgiving, Christmas or any family dinner. With simple ingredients, you can create a dish everyone will love. Learning how to make Ina Garten candied yams is easier than it looks.

My Experience With This Recipe

I first made this recipe last Christmas. I wanted a sweet side that was easy but delicious. The yams melted in the mouth and the glaze was perfect. My family kept asking for seconds.

It felt like a restaurant dish but was simple to cook at home. Now, I make it every holiday. The Ina Garten candied yams recipe always gets compliments. It’s sweet, buttery and comforting.

Recipe Card Info

• Recipe Name: Ina Garten Candied Yams
• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Small saucepan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Spoon for mixing
• Aluminum foil (optional)

Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Candied Yams Recipe

• 4 large yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch slices
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: mini marshmallows for topping

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the yams

Peel the yams and cut into 1-inch slices. Place them in a large mixing bowl and set aside.

3. Make the glaze

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Stir until smooth.

4. Combine yams and glaze

Pour the glaze over the sliced yams. Mix gently with a spoon so all slices are coated evenly.

5. Transfer to baking dish

Place glazed yams in the greased baking dish in a single layer. Pour any leftover glaze over the top.

6. Cover and bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This helps yams cook evenly and stay moist.

7. Uncover and bake more

Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes. Yams should be tender and caramelized on top.

8. Optional marshmallow topping

If using marshmallows, sprinkle them on top. Bake 5 more minutes until melted and golden.

9. Serve warm

Let the yams rest 5 minutes. Serve warm as a sweet, comforting side dish.

Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Candied Yams Recipe

• Use fresh yams, not old or soft ones
• Cut slices evenly for even cooking
• Do not skip the glaze, it adds flavor
• Cover while baking for moist yams
• Use real butter for best taste

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Baking uncovered too early, yams may dry
• Cutting slices too thick or too thin
• Using dark brown sugar only, it can overpower
• Forgetting salt, it balances the sweetness
• Skipping the vanilla extract

Serving Suggestions

These candied yams pair well with roasted turkey, baked ham or grilled chicken. Serve on a large platter with extra glaze spooned over the top.

You can also serve with a side of green beans or stuffing. For a holiday table, add sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme for decoration.

Variations You Can Try

• Add orange zest to the glaze for citrus flavor
• Sprinkle chopped pecans for crunch
• Use honey instead of maple syrup
• Add a pinch of ground ginger for spice
• Top with toasted coconut for texture

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes
• Do not microwave too long or yams may become mushy
• Can be served cold as a sweet side too

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	320
Protein	2g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	55g
Fiber	5g
Sugar	32g

Health Benefits

Yams are rich in fiber, vitamins and antioxidants. They support digestion and boost immunity. Using cinnamon and nutmeg adds extra antioxidants.

This dish is sweet but also gives nutrients. Baking instead of frying keeps it lighter. It is a better dessert-like side than sugar-heavy pies or candies.

FAQs about Ina Garten Candied Yams Recipe

1. Can I use regular sweet potatoes instead of yams?
Yes, regular sweet potatoes work well. Just peel and slice them the same way. The flavor is slightly different but still delicious.

2. How do I make the yams less sweet?
Use less brown sugar or maple syrup. Adding a pinch of salt balances sweetness without losing flavor.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, mix yams and glaze, cover and store in the fridge. Bake just before serving for best texture.

4. Can I freeze candied yams?
It is possible, but the texture changes slightly. Reheat gently in the oven after thawing.

5. How do I get the top golden without burning?
Bake covered first, then uncover at the end. Watch the last 5 minutes closely to prevent burning.

Final Thoughts

The Ina Garten candied yams recipe is easy, sweet and perfect for holidays. It looks fancy but is simple to make. With tender yams and buttery glaze, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

Follow the steps, avoid common mistakes and enjoy every bite. Once you learn how to make Ina Garten candied yams, it will become a family favorite. Sweet, soft and comforting, it’s a dish everyone will ask for again.