Stovetop Candied Yams
Stovetop Candied Yams
These stovetop candied yams are tender, buttery, and coated in a rich brown sugar glaze with warm spices. Made entirely on the stovetop, they’re an easy alternative to baked versions and come together faster while still delivering that classic sweet, comforting flavor everyone loves.
Perfect for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, or anytime you want a cozy side dish, this recipe keeps things simple while letting the natural sweetness of the yams shine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No oven needed — made entirely on the stovetop
- Tender yams with a rich, syrupy glaze
- Classic Southern comfort food flavor
- Easy to double for holidays and gatherings
- Ready faster than baked versions
Ingredients
- 3 pounds yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup water or orange juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Stovetop Candied Yams
Place the sliced yams into a large skillet or deep saucepan. Add the butter, brown sugar, water or orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the yams are fork-tender.
Remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional 5–10 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken. Stir gently to coat the yams evenly without breaking them apart.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract just before serving.
Jennie’s Thoughts
This is one of those side dishes that instantly feels like home. I love making candied yams on the stovetop because it frees up oven space during the holidays and still gives you that rich, caramelized flavor. They’re perfect next to ham, turkey, or fried chicken, and the leftovers are just as good the next day.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Can be made a day ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Add a splash of water when reheating if needed
Stovetop candied yams are a timeless side dish that never goes out of style. Sweet, buttery, and perfectly spiced, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite for holidays and everyday comfort meals alike.
More Holiday Side Dishes to Try
If you love classic side dishes like these stovetop candied yams, be sure to check out more of our favorite comfort sides on the Side Dishes page.
You’ll find holiday-ready recipes like creamy mashed potatoes, dressing, green bean casseroles, and other easy sides perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinner.
