Southern Candied Yams Skillet (Printable)

Tender yams cooked in a brown sugar syrup with buttery glaze and warm spices, finished in a skillet.

# Ingredient list:

→ Yams

01 - 3 large yams (about 2 pounds), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds

→ Syrup

02 - 1 cup packed light brown sugar
03 - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 1/4 cup water
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Optional Garnish

09 - 1/4 cup chopped pecans

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large 12-inch skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
02 - Arrange the yam slices evenly in the skillet, turning to coat in the syrup.
03 - Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, gently stirring and turning the yams occasionally.
04 - Remove the lid and raise the heat to medium. Continue cooking for 10 to 15 minutes, spooning syrup over the yams, until they are fork-tender and the sauce is thick and glossy.
05 - Stir in the vanilla extract. If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans before serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Ready in just 50 minutes from start to finish
  • Vegetarian and naturally gluten-free for diverse dietary needs
  • One-pan preparation means minimal cleanup
  • Rich, buttery caramel glaze that's absolutely irresistible
  • Perfect balance of sweetness and warm spices
  • Makes an impressive side dish for any gathering
02 -
  • Cut yam slices uniformly to ensure even cooking throughout
  • Don't skip the vanilla extract—it rounds out the flavors beautifully
  • Use a wide skillet so yams can lay in a single layer for best caramelization
  • Taste the syrup before adding yams and adjust spices to your preference
  • Leftovers reheat wonderfully and the flavors deepen overnight
  • For make-ahead prep, cook through step 4, then finish just before serving
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