Name: Sweet Honey Ginger Candied Yams for a Festive Touch
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 lb Yams or Sweet Potatoes (sliced 1/4-inch thick; Garnet or jewel-fleshed sweet potatoes recommended); 3 tbsp Olive Oil (for coating); 1 tsp Salt (enhances flavors); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (adds heat); 1/4 cup Honey (key sweetener); 2 tbsp Brown Sugar (adds depth); 1 tbsp Ground Ginger (for spice; fresh may be used); 1/2 tsp Cinnamon (complements sweetness); 1/3 cup Pecans (chopped; adds crunch); 1/2 tsp Flaky Finishing Salt (for final touch)

As the shimmering lights of the holiday season approach, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven where the comforting aroma of warmth and sweetness fills the air. One of my all-time favorite finds to grace the table are these Honey Ginger Candied Yams. This side dish not only balances the natural sweetness of yams with a delightful spicy kick from ginger, but it also brings a cheerful pop of color and flavor to your spread. The best part? They are gluten-free, vegetarian, and come together quickly, making them the perfect last-minute addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast. Trust me, these yams will have guests asking for seconds! Ready to elevate your holiday gatherings? Let’s dive into this sweet and spicy recipe!

Why Make Honey Ginger Candied Yams?

Irresistible Flavor Combination: The mix of honey, ginger, and cinnamon creates a perfect harmony of sweetness and spice.

Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can transform simple yams into a stunning side dish in under an hour.

Gluten-Free Delight: Perfect for accommodating dietary restrictions; your gluten-sensitive guests will love these yams!

Festive Appeal: The vibrant color and delightful aroma make these yams a standout on any holiday table. Pair them with Quinoa Salad Honey for a colorful spread.

Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Prepare to hear your guests rave about these, making them a must-have for every gathering!

It’s the holiday season; bring smiles and warmth to your table with this delightful dish!

Honey Ginger Candied Yams Ingredients

• Get ready to create a warm, festive dish!

For the Yams

Yams or Sweet Potatoes – 2 lb, sliced 1/4-inch thick; for sweetness and a beautiful texture, use Garnet or jewel-fleshed sweet potatoes for the best results.
Olive Oil – 3 tbsp; ensures that the yams are coated perfectly for roasting.
Salt – 1 tsp; enhances the overall flavors of the glaze and yams.
Black Pepper – 1/2 tsp; adds just enough heat to balance the sweetness.

For the Glaze

Honey – 1/4 cup; the key sweetener that makes the Honey Ginger Candied Yams so delightful.
Brown Sugar – 2 tbsp; adds depth, sweetness, and caramelization to the dish.
Ground Ginger – 1 tbsp; delivers a spicy kick; consider using fresh ginger for an even bolder flavor.
Cinnamon – 1/2 tsp; imparts a warm note that complements the sweetness beautifully.

Optional Add-Ins

Pecans – 1/3 cup, chopped; these add a great crunch and nuttiness to the dish, making it even more delicious.
Flaky Finishing Salt – 1/2 tsp; elevates the sweet and savory balance of these Honey Ginger Candied Yams.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re all set to create a truly memorable holiday side dish that everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Ginger Candied Yams

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure a perfectly roasted finish. This high temperature will allow the yams to caramelize beautifully, creating that delightful golden-brown exterior we crave in Honey Ginger Candied Yams.

Step 2: Prepare the Yams
While the oven is heating, slice the yams or sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds for even cooking. In a large bowl, toss the sliced yams with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until they’re evenly coated. This will enhance their flavors and help them crisp up nicely during roasting.

Step 3: Bake the Yams
Spread the coated yams in a single layer on a large baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd them for optimal caramelization. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until they start to soften and their edges begin to turn golden, setting the stage for the delicious glaze to come.

Step 4: Make the Glaze
While the yams are roasting, combine honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, and ground ginger in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir the mixture for about 2 minutes until everything is well-combined and the sugars dissolve. This fragrant glaze will infuse the yams with a sweet, spicy goodness.

Step 5: Coat the Yams
After 15 minutes, remove the yams from the oven. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the top of the yams with the honey glaze, then flip them and coat the other side. This ensures each piece of yam is enveloped in the sweet and spicy flavors that define Honey Ginger Candied Yams.

Step 6: Add the Pecans
Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the glazed yams, distributing them evenly for added crunch and nuttiness. These pecans not only enhance the flavor but also provide wonderful texture, highlighting the delightfully crafted Honey Ginger Candied Yams.

Step 7: Final Bake
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Look for the yams to become golden brown and caramelized, their edges crisping up just perfectly. This final roasting phase allows the glaze to intensify, making each bite irresistible.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once your yams are beautifully caramelized, transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle a touch of flaky finishing salt on top to enhance the sweet and savory profile. Your vibrant Honey Ginger Candied Yams are now ready to shine on the holiday table!

How to Store and Freeze Honey Ginger Candied Yams

Fridge: Store leftover Honey Ginger Candied Yams in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the yams in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. If they seem dry, drizzle a little honey before reheating to restore moisture.

Honey Ginger Candied Yams Variations

Feel free to put your spin on the classic Honey Ginger Candied Yams with these delightful variations!

Sweet Potato Swap: Replace yams with pale-fleshed sweet potatoes for a milder taste and a beautiful contrast in color. This variation holds its own and brings a unique twist to the flavor profile.
Maple Syrup Glaze: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a rich, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the yams. It’s a fabulous way to highlight that natural flavor!
Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans for a nut-free version, making this dish safe for nut allergies while still delivering incredible flavor. You can still enjoy the sweet and spicy notes without missing out on the fun.
Crispy Topping: Sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with spices over the yams during the last few minutes of baking for an added crispy texture. Just imagine that delightful crunch setting off the tenderness of the yams!
Add More Heat: For a spicy twist, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper along with the glaze. This will give your yams an extra kick that spice lovers will adore!
Herb Infusion: Toss in some finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme before roasting for an aromatic touch. The earthiness of the herbs beautifully complements the sweetness of the yams.
Fruit Addition: Mix in some diced apples or pears during the last few minutes of baking to add a fruity note to the dish. This surprise element will enhance both the flavor and texture!
Coconut Cream Drizzle: Top the finished yams with a drizzle of coconut cream for a tropical twist. This addition creates a lovely creaminess that perfectly balances the sweetness of the dish.

With these variations, your Honey Ginger Candied Yams can become an even more versatile and exciting dish for your holiday meals. Pair them with Honey Feta Sweet for a stunning, flavor-packed spread that will leave your guests raving!

What to Serve with Honey Ginger Candied Yams?

As your aromatic Honey Ginger Candied Yams glisten on the table, let’s make sure your feast has a delightful ensemble of flavors and textures.

Roasted Turkey: The savory flavors of a roasted turkey balance the sweetness of the yams beautifully, creating a classic holiday pairing.
Glazed Ham: The mild sweetness and saltiness of glazed ham make it a perfect companion, enhancing the rich notes of honey and ginger.
Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crunchy texture provide contrast to the tender sweetness of the yams, creating an exciting play of flavors.
Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with toasted almonds bring freshness and crunch, completing your meal with a splash of color.
Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin: Juicy and lean, this savory main brings a delightful earthy depth that complements the sweet and spicy yams.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce brightens every bite, cutting through the richness of the yams with its zesty flavor.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay with its fruity notes and acidity pairs wonderfully, enhancing the sweet elements of the dish.
Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, nothing beats a slice of classic pumpkin pie to gently segue in sweetness, echoing the beautiful flavors of your yams.

This thoughtful medley will elevate your meal, making every gathering memorable!

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Ginger Candied Yams are an absolute dream for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can slice the yams or sweet potatoes and toss them with olive oil, salt, and black pepper up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent browning. The glaze can also be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just warm it slightly before using. When you’re ready to serve, bake the prepped yams at 450°F (232°C) for about 10-15 minutes, glaze them, and finish with the pecans for a delightful side that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh!

Expert Tips for Honey Ginger Candied Yams

Slice Evenly: Ensure your yams are cut into 1/4-inch thick rounds for uniform cooking and to avoid any pieces being undercooked.
Avoid Overcrowding: Spread the yams in a single layer on the baking sheet to maintain proper roasting and to achieve that perfect caramelization.
Glaze Timing: Add the honey and sugars during the last baking stage to prevent burning. This allows the glaze to coat the yams beautifully without being overly charred.
Monitor Pecans: Check the pecans closely during the final baking, as they can burn quickly. You want them toasted but not overdone!
Fresh Ginger Tip: For a bolder flavor, consider using fresh ginger instead of ground ginger; just finely grate it for the glaze to enhance the sweet and spicy experience of your Honey Ginger Candied Yams.

Honey Ginger Candied Yams Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my yams or sweet potatoes are ripe?
Absolutely! Look for yams or sweet potatoes that have smooth, firm skins without any dark spots or blemishes. The sweeter varieties, like Garnet or jewel-fleshed sweet potatoes, should feel heavy for their size and have a slight sweetness when you smell them. Avoid anything soft or shriveled!

What’s the best way to store leftover Honey Ginger Candied Yams?
You can keep your leftover Honey Ginger Candied Yams in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing them in, so they stay delicious and retain their wonderful texture!

Can I freeze Honey Ginger Candied Yams? How?
Yes, you can freeze these yummy yams! Place them in a freezer-safe container or plastic bag for up to 3 months. To prevent sticking, I recommend placing parchment paper between the layers. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes. If they seem a bit dry, drizzle a touch of honey to restore their moisture before serving.

What should I do if my yams are turning mushy?
Very! If you find your yams becoming mushy, it might be due to overcooking. Keep an eye on the baking time and check for tenderness, aiming for a fork to slide in easily but not falling apart. If you overcooked them during the initial baking or the glaze application, consider slicing the yams thicker next time for better texture.

Are Honey Ginger Candied Yams safe for pets?
Definitely keep your furry friends in mind! While the ingredients are safe for humans, avoid offering them to pets. The sugars in honey and brown sugar can be unhealthy for dogs and cats. Plus, have caution with spices like ginger; always better to stick to their pet food!

Can I make Honey Ginger Candied Yams gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you don’t need to worry here! Just be sure that any additional ingredients you may want to include, such as nuts, are also certified gluten-free to keep it safe for all your guests enjoying this sweet dish.