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Slow Cooker Candied Yams are more than just a side dish; they’re a warm embrace of sweet flavors that can elevate any occasion. Picture tender slices of red garnet yams cooked slowly to perfection, bathed in a luscious, buttery syrup infused with cinnamon and molasses. The aroma that wafts through your kitchen while they cook is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This delightful dish is often seen on holiday tables, but honestly, it can brighten any autumn evening or family gathering.

My own experience with candied yams dates back to my childhood, where my grandmother would whip up this treat for Thanksgiving. The sweet, buttery yams always stole the show, and I wanted to carry that tradition into my own home. With the ease of a slow cooker, whipping up a batch has never been simpler, allowing me to spend more time with loved ones rather than watching over a pot on the stove. Trust me when I say this recipe will become a new favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prep takes just 15 minutes and cooks in 4 hours—set it and forget it!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery sweetness and warm spices is pure comfort food.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Vibrant orange yams in a golden syrup make for a stunning addition to any meal.
Flexible Serving: Perfect as a side for dinner, a holiday feast, or even a sweet breakfast treat.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for various diets, including gluten-free options.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 lbs. red garnet yams: These yams have a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess, making them ideal for candied yams. You can substitute with sweet potatoes if necessary.
1 1/2 cups water: This helps in cooking down the yams, creating a lovely syrup when combined with the sugar and other ingredients.
2 Tbsp. cornstarch: This thickens the syrup, giving it that perfect candied texture.
1 tsp. ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice, essential for that comforting flavor profile.
1/4 tsp. ground cloves: A little goes a long way, providing a subtly earthy note.
1/8 tsp. salt: Balances the sweetness beautifully, enhancing all the flavors.
1/2 cup melted salted butter: Infuses rich, creamy goodness into the dish; the salt enhances the flavors without being overpowering.
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract: Elevates the sweetness; a pure vanilla extract is preferred for the best flavor.
1 Tbsp. molasses: Adds depth and a hint of caramel; can swap with maple syrup for a different taste.
1 1/2 cups brown sugar (added at the end): This is what makes the yams truly “candied.” The brown sugar helps create an irresistible syrup that caramelizes beautifully.

How to Make Slow Cooker Candied Yams

Prep the Yams: Begin by peeling the 4 lbs. of red garnet yams and slicing them into 1-inch thick pieces. Ensure they’re uniform for even cooking. Add them directly into your slow cooker.
Prepare the Cornstarch Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of water and 2 Tbsp. of cornstarch until smooth. This mixture is essential for thickening the syrup later. Pour it over the yams in the slow cooker.
Add Flavorings: Next, add 1/2 cup of melted salted butter, 1 Tbsp. of molasses, 1/2 tsp. of vanilla extract, 1 tsp. of ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp. of ground cloves, and 1/8 tsp. of salt to the yams. Gently stir to combine everything. Make sure the yams are well coated in the mixture for maximum flavor.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to HIGH. Cook for 4 hours without peeking—keeping the lid on helps trap the heat and steam for tender yams. You’ll know they’re done because they will be fork-tender and fragrant.
Add Sugar: Once the cooking time is up, carefully open the lid and add in 1 1/2 cups of brown sugar. Stir gently to mix; the yams will start to absorb the sweetness quickly.
Serve & Enjoy: Once mixed, serve these candied yams hot, and watch them disappear from the table.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover candied yams, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for a few hours or refrigerated for up to a week. If you choose to freeze them, use a freezer-safe container and keep them for up to three months. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the microwave or place them in a pot on low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the syrup if needed. The texture may change slightly upon reheating, but that sweet, rich flavor will still shine through.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid peeling yams too far in advance to prevent browning—do it just before cooking for the best results.
If you prefer a thicker syrup, let the yams cook a little longer; just keep the lid on!
Experiment with spices! A bit of nutmeg or allspice can add a delightful twist that complements the yams beautifully.
Make ahead of time: Cook the yams a day or two before your event and reheat them, as the flavors meld even more.
Use a spoon to taste your mixture before adding the brown sugar; you can adjust sweetness levels to your preference beforehand.
Store the leftovers in a serving dish covered tightly with plastic wrap to retain moisture.

With all the comforting sweetness and the delightful simplicity of this dish, you can feel the warmth of home-cooked love with every bite. Whether it’s just for a weekday dinner or a festive gathering, these Slow Cooker Candied Yams are bound to win hearts and satisfy cravings.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of yams?

Absolutely! While they have different textures, sweet potatoes can be used interchangeably. The sweetness will be slightly different, but they’ll still create a delicious dish.

How do I know when the yams are done cooking?

The best way to check is to pierce the yams with a fork. They should be soft and tender, breaking apart easily with gentle pressure.

Can I make these yams ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just allow it to cool, refrigerate it, and reheat on low heat when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with candied yams?

These delightful yams pair perfectly with roasted meats, like turkey or ham. They also make a fabulous side dish for holiday gatherings or family dinners, creating a sweet contrast to savory entrees.

Now that you have this simple yet spectacular recipe for Slow Cooker Candied Yams, it’s time to gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to this sweet indulgence. You’ll be thankful you did!

Slow Cooker Candied Yams