How to Make Southern Candied Yams !!

How to Make Southern Candied Yams !! is a medium Southern United States recipe that serves 6. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by The Danni Rose Network on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 55 min

Cost: $4.04 total, $0.67 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 large Sweet Potatoes (peeled, rinsed, dried and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds)
  • 2 tablespoons Water (only to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot)
  • 1/2 cup Granulated White Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (cut into small pieces; added at the end to melt into the glaze)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 1.5 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon (about 1 1/2 tbsp; use sparingly)
  • 1 pinch Ground Nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)

Instructions

  1. Peel the Sweet Potatoes

    Using a sharp paring knife (or a vegetable peeler) carefully remove the skin from the sweet potatoes, taking your time to avoid cuts.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Rinse and Dry

    Rinse the peeled potatoes under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Slice into Rounds

    Cut each sweet potato into 1/4‑inch thick rounds. Aim for uniform thickness for even cooking.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Add Water to Pot

    Place a medium‑sized pot on the stove and add 2 tablespoons of water.

    Time: PT1M

  5. First Layer of Potatoes and Sugar

    Arrange half of the sweet‑potato rounds in an even layer at the bottom of the pot. Sprinkle half of the white sugar, half of the brown sugar, half of the salt, half of the vanilla, and half of the cinnamon (and a pinch of nutmeg if using) over the potatoes.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Second Layer of Potatoes and Sugar

    Place the remaining sweet‑potato rounds on top of the first layer, then add the remaining sugar, brown sugar, salt, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

    Time: PT3M

  7. Simmer with Cracked Lid

    Set the burner to medium‑low heat, place a cracked lid on the pot (leave a small gap for steam), and let the potatoes simmer for 10‑12 minutes.

    Time: PT12M

  8. Flip the Top Layer

    Remove the lid, gently flip only the top layer of potatoes, and press them down into the sugary liquid.

    Time: PT2M

  9. Finish Cooking

    Replace the cracked lid and continue to cook for another 10‑12 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is thick and bubbly.

    Time: PT12M

  10. Add Butter and Finish Glaze

    Turn off the heat, add the butter pieces, replace the lid, and let the butter melt into the sugary sauce for about 3 minutes.

    Time: PT3M

  11. Serve

    Transfer the candied sweet potatoes to a serving dish and serve warm.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
1 g
Carbohydrates
55 g
Fat
5 g
Fiber
4 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Allergens: Dairy

Last updated: March 13, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

How to Make Southern Candied Yams !!

Recipe by The Danni Rose Network

A classic Southern holiday side dish of sweet potatoes caramelized with brown and white sugar, butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. The potatoes are simmered on the stove with just a splash of water, then finished with a buttery glaze for a glossy, tender candied yam.

MediumSouthern United StatesServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
21m
Prep
29m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.04
Total cost
$0.67
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Peel the sweet potatoes safely with a sharp knife or peeler.
  • Layer the potatoes and sugar without stirring.
  • Use a cracked lid to allow steam to escape while preventing excess water.
  • Flip only the top layer after the first simmer.
  • Add butter after the heat is turned off to create a glossy glaze.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot sugar can cause severe burns; handle the pot with oven mitts.
  • Use a sharp knife carefully when peeling to avoid cuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of candied sweet potatoes (candy yams) in Southern United States cuisine?

A

Candied sweet potatoes have been a staple of Southern holiday tables for generations, tracing back to African‑American cooking traditions where sweet potatoes were sweetened with sugar and butter to celebrate special occasions.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of candied sweet potatoes in Southern cuisine?

A

In the Deep South, cooks often add marshmallows on top, while in coastal areas they may incorporate orange zest or bourbon. Some families use pecans for added crunch, but the classic version relies on butter, sugar, and warm spices.

cultural
Q

How is candied sweet potatoes traditionally served in Southern holiday meals?

A

They are typically served warm as a side dish alongside turkey, ham, or fried chicken, placed on a decorative platter and sometimes garnished with a dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of extra melted butter.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is candied sweet potatoes traditionally associated with in Southern culture?

A

Candied sweet potatoes are most common at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s gatherings, as well as at family reunions and church potlucks throughout the Southern United States.

cultural
Q

What makes candied sweet potatoes special or unique in Southern cuisine?

A

The dish showcases the natural sweetness of the yam combined with a buttery caramel glaze, creating a glossy, melt‑in‑your‑mouth texture that balances sweet and savory flavors—a hallmark of Southern comfort food.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making candied sweet potatoes?

A

Adding too much water, stirring the potatoes during cooking, covering the pot completely, and adding butter while the sugar is still boiling are all common errors that can result in a watery or burnt glaze.

technical
Q

Why does this candied sweet potatoes recipe use a cracked lid instead of a fully sealed lid?

A

A cracked lid lets excess steam escape, preventing the pot from becoming a watery stew while still allowing the potatoes to steam and become tender in the sugary broth.

technical
Q

Can I make candied sweet potatoes ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes, you can prepare them up to the point before adding butter, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days, then reheat gently and finish with butter for a fresh glaze.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the candied sweet potatoes are done?

A

The potatoes should be fork‑tender, and the sauce should be thick, glossy, and clinging to each slice, with caramelized edges but not burnt.

technical
Q

How do I know when the candied sweet potatoes are done cooking?

A

When a fork easily pierces the center of a slice and the liquid has reduced to a syrupy coating that glistens, the dish is finished.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel The Danni Rose Network specialize in?

A

The Danni Rose Network focuses on Southern comfort food, holiday recipes, and family‑style cooking tutorials with a warm, home‑cooking vibe.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel The Danni Rose Network's approach to Southern cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

The Danni Rose Network emphasizes traditional, no‑fuss techniques, using everyday kitchen tools and sharing personal family tips, whereas many other channels rely on high‑tech equipment or overly modern twists.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

One Pot Soup Recipes

One Pot Soup Recipes

A hearty Southern-inspired one‑pot swamp soup packed with smoked sausage, turnip greens, beans, corn, okra, potatoes and spices. Serve over fluffy jasmine rice and dip with buttery buttermilk cornbread for a comforting meal.

1 hr 30 min
Serves 6
$98
1 views
Southern United StatesMedium
How to Make PERFECT Super Crispy Fried Chicken in an Air Fryer

How to Make PERFECT Super Crispy Fried Chicken in an Air Fryer

A quick and mess‑free method to make ultra‑crispy, juicy fried chicken wings using an air fryer. The secret is a double dredge with seasoned flour, baking soda, and baking powder, plus a light spray of olive oil for that perfect crunch without deep‑frying.

42 min
Serves 4
$19
4 views
Southern United StatesEasy
This 18-Layer Chocolate Cake Has A Rich Southern History

This 18-Layer Chocolate Cake Has A Rich Southern History

A classic Southern celebration cake with 18 ultra‑thin chocolate layers. Made with soft white winter wheat flour (or double‑sifted cake flour) and a silky chocolate buttercream, this cake honors a family tradition from the Georgia “NAT line.” Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any gathering where a towering chocolate cake is the star.

2 hrs 34 min
Serves 24
$31
15 views
Southern United StatesMedium
Pulled Pork

Pulled Pork

A Southern‑style pulled pork recipe that captures the iconic flavors of the Carolinas. Includes a sweet‑spicy dry rub, two authentic sauces (vinegar‑based and tomato‑based), and options for indoor sous‑vide + oven finishing or traditional low‑and‑slow smoking. Served on a bun with a simple cabbage slaw.

27 hrs 10 min
Serves 8
$31
3 views
Southern United StatesMedium
Mississippi roast meatballs

Mississippi roast meatballs

A Southern-inspired twist on the classic Mississippi Roast, these slow‑cooker meatballs are simmered in a buttery ranch‑gravy sauce with pepperoncini for a tangy kick. Ready in about 5 hours with minimal effort, they’re perfect served over mashed potatoes with classic Southern sides.

5 hrs 5 min
Serves 6
$10
2 views
Southern United StatesEasy
Southern Black Eyed Peas – New Year Tradition

Southern Black Eyed Peas – New Year Tradition

A classic Southern black‑eyed peas recipe inspired by Arkansas roots, perfect for ringing in the New Year (or any day). Slow‑cooked with smoked ham, aromatic veggies, and a touch of sweetness, these peas are served over fluffy rice with hot sauce and buttery cornbread for a comforting, prosperity‑filled meal.

10 hrs 5 min
Serves 6
$8
10 views
Southern United StatesMedium