Candied yams with apples bring a delightful twist to a classic side dish that’s a staple at many holiday tables. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of yams with the crisp, tart flavor of apples, creating a perfect balance that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s a simple way to elevate your meal with minimal effort.
We love how the warm spices and caramelized syrup coat each bite, making it irresistible whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner. Plus, adding apples gives the dish a subtle fruity note that complements the rich sweetness of the yams beautifully. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create our delicious Candied Yams With Apples, we will need simple ingredients that bring out the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and warm flavors. Below is a detailed breakdown of the essential components for this classic yet refreshing dish.
Yams
- 3 large yams (about 2 to 2.5 pounds), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
Choose firm yams with smooth skin for the best texture.
Apples
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and cut into thin wedges
We recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to complement the sweetness of the yams.
Sweeteners and Spices
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Brown sugar | 1 cup | Provides rich caramelized sweetness |
| Maple syrup | 2 tablespoons | Adds depth and natural sweetness |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Warms the dish with fragrant spice |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | Enhances complexity and aroma |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Lifts flavor with subtle floral notes |
Additional Ingredients
- Unsalted butter, 4 tablespoons, cut into small pieces
Melts into the syrup for a luscious richness. - Fresh orange juice, 1/4 cup
Adds a bright citrus hint to balance flavors. - Salt, a pinch
Elevates sweetness by contrast.
With these carefully selected ingredients, we are ready to prepare a Candied Yams With Apples dish that bursts with warm, inviting flavors and pleasing textures.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Candied Yams With Apples recipe efficiently and achieve the perfect texture and flavor, we need some essential kitchen tools. Using the right equipment helps us manage each step with ease and precision.
Here is the list of equipment required:
- Large mixing bowl – for tossing yams and apples with spices and syrup.
- Sharp chef’s knife – to peel, core, and slice yams and apples evenly.
- Cutting board – a sturdy surface for safe, comfortable chopping.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient portions.
- Medium saucepan – to melt butter and combine syrup, sugar, and spices for the glaze.
- Baking dish (9×13 inch) – for roasting yams and apples evenly in the oven.
- Aluminum foil – optional, to cover the baking dish and prevent excessive browning.
- Oven mitts – to safely handle hot dishes.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring the syrup mixture and mixing ingredients before baking.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large mixing bowl | Toss yams and apples with seasoning and glaze |
| Chef’s knife | Peel and slice ingredients uniformly |
| Cutting board | Safe chopping surface |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Medium saucepan | Prepare candied glaze |
| Baking dish (9×13) | Roast yams and apples consistently |
| Aluminum foil | Optional cover to control browning |
| Oven mitts | Protect hands when handling hot cookware |
| Spatula/Wooden spoon | Stir glaze and combine ingredients before baking |
Using this equipment helps us replicate bakery-quality results with minimal hassle. Let’s gather these essential tools to make sure our Candied Yams With Apples turn out deliciously caramelized and tender every time.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, let’s prepare our candied yams and apples properly to ensure they cook evenly and absorb all the delightful flavors. Taking time here will make a big difference in texture and taste.
Preparing the Yams
- Peel the yams carefully using a vegetable peeler to remove all the skin.
- Slice each yam into 1/2-inch thick rounds or half-moons for even cooking.
- Cut the slices into bite-sized chunks to allow the syrup to fully coat every piece.
- Place the cut yams into a large bowl filled with cold water. Soaking for about 5 minutes helps remove excess starch and prevents browning.
- Drain the yams thoroughly and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel to avoid watery syrup later.
Preparing the Apples
- Choose medium tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the perfect balance with sweet yams.
- Core each apple to remove seeds but keep the apple whole.
- Peel the apples if preferred, or leave the skin on for extra color and texture.
- Slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick wedges to maintain a delicate texture during baking.
- Toss the slices gently in a small bowl with a splash of fresh orange juice to prevent browning and boost flavor.
| Step | Yams | Apples |
|---|---|---|
| Peel | Yes | Optional |
| Slice Thickness | 1/2 inch | 1/4 inch |
| Cut Size | Bite-sized chunks | Wedges |
| Soak/Bathe | Soak 5 minutes in cold water | Toss in fresh orange juice |
| Drying | Pat dry thoroughly | Drain excess juice gently |
Taking these preparation steps ensures our candied yams with apples will bake into a tender caramelized masterpiece bursting with balanced flavors.
Directions
Follow these clear steps to achieve perfectly candied yams with apples that are tender, caramelized, and bursting with flavor.
Cooking the Yams
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the peeled and sliced yams with a pinch of salt to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Arrange the yam slices evenly in a greased baking dish, spreading them out to avoid overcrowding.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat until it foams gently.
- Add 1/2 cup brown sugar and stir constantly, allowing the sugar to dissolve into the butter. This forms the base of the rich, caramel syrup.
- Pour the syrup evenly over the yams, ensuring each slice is coated for maximum flavor.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and promote even cooking.
- Bake for 30 minutes, allowing the yams to begin softening and absorbing the buttery syrup.
| Oven Temperature | Baking Time | Preparation Note |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 30 minutes | Cover with foil to steam yams |
Adding Apples and Sweeteners
- Remove the foil and gently toss the partially cooked yams in the baking dish to distribute the syrup.
- Add the apple slices evenly on top of the yams.
- Sprinkle the apples and yams with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and a splash (1 teaspoon) of vanilla extract to intensify warm spice aromas.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup over the apples for added sweetness and a luscious finish.
- Pour 1/4 cup fresh orange juice around the edges to infuse a subtle citrus brightness.
- Return the dish uncovered to the oven.
Simmering to Perfection
- Bake uncovered for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, basting occasionally with the syrup collected at the bottom using a spatula.
- As the syrup thickens and caramelizes, the yams will become tender and golden, while the apples soften yet retain a slight bite.
- Check tenderness by inserting a fork into the yams; it should glide through smoothly without resistance.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes — this allows the syrup to thicken further and intensify flavors.
- Serve warm, spooning extra syrup over each portion for that ultimate indulgent touch.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Candied Yams With Apples, we recommend serving them warm, directly from the oven. Spoon generous amounts of the rich, caramelized syrup over each portion to enhance the natural sweetness and provide a luscious finish. This syrup is a signature element that ties the dish together, offering a mouthwatering glaze that is both comforting and indulgent.
For a well-rounded meal, pair our candied yams with savory dishes such as:
- Roast turkey or chicken: The sweet and tart flavors complement the savory, herb-infused poultry perfectly.
- Honey-glazed ham: The natural caramel notes in the yams harmonize beautifully with the glaze on the ham.
- Grilled pork chops: Adds a sweet contrast to the meat’s smoky char.
If we want to add texture, topping the yams with a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty aroma. Alternatively, a dollop of creamy whipped maple butter can add richness and an extra layer of flavor.
Suggested Drink Pairings
| Beverage | Description |
|---|---|
| Spiced Apple Cider | Enhances the apple notes and adds warming spice |
| Chardonnay | A crisp white wine that balances sweetness |
| Bourbon Cocktail | Complements the caramel and warm spice flavors |
Serving our Candied Yams With Apples alongside these dishes and drinks will create a balanced and flavorful experience perfect for holidays and family dinners. Remember to serve them straight from the baking dish so the syrup remains glossy and inviting.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To keep our Candied Yams With Apples fresh and flavorful, following these make-ahead and storage tips is essential. Proper handling ensures the yams retain their tender texture and rich caramelized syrup for any occasion.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the dish up to the first baking stage: We recommend completing the initial 30 minutes of baking covered with foil. At this point, the yams are partially cooked, and the caramel syrup has developed.
- Cool completely: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Refrigerate overnight: Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add apples and final spices just before baking: For the freshest texture and best flavor balance, add the apple slices, cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup only when you are ready to bake the second time.
Reheating and Serving
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the syrup thickens and the yams and apples are tender and caramelized.
- Serve warm directly from the baking dish to maintain the glossy, inviting appearance.
Storage Guidelines
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 4 days | Store in airtight container or covered dish |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Use freezer-safe container; thaw overnight in fridge before reheating |
| Reheating | 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 min | Reheat covered to prevent drying, uncover last 5 min for caramelization |
Tips for Best Results
- Avoid freezing apples separately as they may become mushy. Freeze the entire prepared dish instead.
- Do not add syrup or spices before freezing. Add fresh ingredients after thawing for vibrant flavor.
- Cover the dish tightly to prevent absorbing odors in the fridge or freezer.
- Reheat gently to preserve texture and avoid overcooking the tender yams.
“For effortless holiday serving, preparing your Candied Yams With Apples a day in advance frees up oven space and enhances the flavors.”
By mastering these make-ahead and storage steps, we ensure our Candied Yams With Apples remain a highlight of every meal with their perfect balance of sweet, tart, and warmly spiced goodness.
Conclusion
This candied yams with apples recipe brings a fresh and flavorful twist to any meal. The blend of sweet yams, tart apples, and warm spices creates a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, it’s sure to impress.
By following the simple steps and tips we’ve shared, you can easily achieve that perfect balance of caramelized sweetness and tender texture. Plus, with our make-ahead and storage advice, you’ll have a reliable go-to side dish ready whenever you need it.
Give this recipe a try and make it a staple in your kitchen. It’s a delicious way to elevate your meals and delight everyone at the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are candied yams with apples?
Candied yams with apples is a holiday side dish combining the natural sweetness of yams with the tartness of apples. It features warm spices and a caramelized syrup for a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic candied yams recipe.
What types of apples work best in this recipe?
Tart apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are best. They provide a nice contrast to the sweet yams, balancing the dish with their bright, tangy flavor.
What spices are used in candied yams with apples?
The recipe typically uses warm spices such as ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract, which enhance the sweetness and add depth to the dish.
How do I prevent the apple slices from browning before cooking?
Toss the sliced apples in fresh orange juice right after slicing. The citrus helps prevent browning and adds a subtle, fresh flavor.
Can I prepare candied yams with apples ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the first baking stage and refrigerate overnight. Add the apples and spices just before the final bake for best results.
How should I reheat leftover candied yams with apples?
Reheat them uncovered in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 25–30 minutes until warmed through, which preserves the caramelized texture and flavor.
How long can I store candied yams with apples?
Store in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to two months. Avoid freezing apples separately to maintain texture and flavor.
What dishes pair well with candied yams with apples?
They pair wonderfully with roast turkey, honey-glazed ham, or grilled pork chops. For drinks, spiced apple cider, Chardonnay, or bourbon cocktails complement the flavors nicely.