Candied Yams Recipe Vegan: Easy & Delicious Holiday Treat

There’s something deeply comforting about the warm, sweet, and tender goodness of candied yams, especially during the holiday season or as a cozy side dish any time of the year. Traditionally made with butter and sometimes marshmallows, this classic southern dish can easily be transformed into a vegan delight without sacrificing any of its signature flavors.

Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or just looking to add more plant-based options to your menu, this candied yams recipe vegan is an absolute must-try. The natural sweetness of the yams combined with a rich, sticky glaze made from maple syrup, brown sugar, and warm spices creates a dish that’s both nostalgic and nourishing.

In this recipe, I’ve kept things simple yet flavorful, using wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and makes a beautiful addition to any holiday spread or weeknight dinner.

Get ready to enjoy yams that are perfectly caramelized, tender, and bursting with cozy flavors—all without any animal products!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan candied yams recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and those with dairy allergies.

The combination of maple syrup, brown sugar, and a touch of warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg gives these yams a rich, caramelized flavor that’s irresistible.

Second, the yams come out perfectly tender but not mushy, with a luscious glaze that clings beautifully to every slice. This recipe is also incredibly flexible—you can easily adjust the sweetness and spice levels to suit your taste.

And best of all, it’s a simple recipe that requires minimal prep and everyday ingredients.

Whether you’re preparing a festive holiday meal or a comforting weeknight dinner, these candied yams will add a touch of sweetness and warmth that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 large yams or sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark, packed)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted (or vegan butter)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional for extra warmth)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)

Equipment

• Baking dish or casserole pan (approximately 9×13 inches)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)
• Oven mitts
• Serving spoon

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with a bit of coconut oil or vegan butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the yams by peeling them and slicing into roughly 1/2-inch thick rounds or half-moons for even cooking.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, melted coconut oil, orange juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until fully combined.
4. Arrange the sliced yams in the prepared baking dish in a single layer or slightly overlapping.
5. Pour the maple-spice glaze evenly over the yams, using a spoon to gently toss or spread the sauce so every piece is coated.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until the yams are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through, to allow the yams to caramelize and the sauce to thicken.
8. Check for doneness: The yams should be soft and the glaze sticky and bubbly. If you’d like a deeper caramelization, broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
9. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Spoon any extra glaze from the bottom of the dish over the yams for extra sweetness.

Tips & Variations

For a nutty crunch, sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking. This adds a wonderful texture contrast!

If you prefer a fruitier twist, add 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple or dried cranberries to the glaze mix before baking.

To make this recipe nut-free, simply omit any nut toppings and ensure your maple syrup is pure and not processed in facilities with nuts.

You can swap the coconut oil for vegan butter if you prefer a richer, buttery flavor. For extra moisture and tang, a splash of fresh orange juice or even a little apple cider vinegar works beautifully.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of ground cloves or cayenne pepper. These subtle spices will elevate the flavor without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the yams.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These candied yams make a fantastic side dish for any hearty meal. Pair them with your favorite plant-based mains like a savory lentil loaf or crispy tofu steaks.

For a festive holiday table, they complement vegan roasts and stuffing beautifully.

Try serving them alongside a fresh green salad with a bright vinaigrette to balance the sweetness. For a Southern-inspired feast, pair with collard greens, vegan cornbread, and creamy mashed potatoes.

If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy other comforting dishes such as Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or a tangy treat like Maple Bourbon Pickles Recipe. For something lighter and fresh, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe.

Conclusion

This vegan candied yams recipe proves that you don’t need butter or marshmallows to enjoy the rich, sweet flavors of this classic dish. Using natural sweeteners like maple syrup and brown sugar combined with warm spices creates a luscious glaze that perfectly complements the tender yams.

Whether you’re cooking for a holiday crowd or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and delicious results. It’s a wholesome, plant-based take on a beloved favorite that everyone can enjoy.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to experiment with the variations to make it uniquely yours!

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