If you're craving a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth side dish that perfectly complements any holiday spread, these Air Fryer Candied Yams are a must-try! This easy recipe takes the classic candied yams to a whole new level, providing a delightful combination of sweetness and a slightly crispy exterior, thanks to the magic of the air fryer.

Overhead image of candied yams in a white dish

Why You'll Love These At Your Dinner Table

Quick and Efficient. Ready in a fraction of the time it takes to bake in the oven, these candied yams are perfect for busy holiday meal preparations.
Caramelized Goodness. The air fryer's intense heat caramelizes the sugar coating, giving the yams a heavenly sweetness with a hint of crispiness.
Minimal Effort. A straightforward recipe that requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your holiday feast.
Versatile Side Dish. These candied yams pair seamlessly with a variety of main courses, making them a versatile and welcomed addition to any holiday table.

Are Candied Yams Good?

Absolutely! Air Fryer Candied Yams offer a delightful twist on the classic oven-baked version. The air fryer's high heat ensures that the yams are tender on the inside and perfectly caramelized on the outside. The result is a side dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

What's The Difference Between Candied Yams And Sweet Potatoes?

When you see "candied yams" in a recipe, it's often made with sweet potatoes, specifically the orange-fleshed variety. This holds true in this recipe as well.

If you're using true yams, the flavor and texture may be different from what many people associate with candied yams in the U.S. Always check the specific type of sweet potato or yam recommended in the recipe for the best results.

Why Are My Candied Yams Runny?

If your candied yams are turning out runny, there could be a few reasons for this issue. Here are some common factors to consider:

Excess Liquid. Candied yam recipes typically involve creating a syrup or glaze that coats the sweet potatoes. If there is too much liquid in the recipe or if the yams release a significant amount of liquid during cooking, it can result in a runny consistency.
Overcooking. If the yams are cooked for too long, they might become mushy and release more liquid than desired. It's essential to cook the yams until they are tender but not overly soft.

What Are Candied Yams Made Of?

Sweet Potatoes- Peeled and cut into uniform slices, these form the delicious base of the dish.
Brown Sugar- Adds sweetness and contributes to the beautiful caramelization.
Butter- Unsalted, melted butter helps coat the yams, enhancing their richness.
Maple Syrup- Drizzled over the yams, maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and a touch of fall flavor.
Cinnamon- A warm and aromatic spice that complements the natural sweetness of the yams.
Nutmeg- Ground nutmeg adds a hint of warmth and depth to the dish.
Salt- A pinch of salt balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.

How To Make Candied Yams In The Air Fryer

Prepare the Yams. Peel and slice the yams into even rounds or wedges. Ensuring uniform size helps them cook evenly.
Coat with Sugar Mixture. In a bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Toss the yam slices in this luscious mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Air Fry to Perfection. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the yam slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden and caramelized.
Serve and Enjoy. Transfer the candied yams to a serving dish, and optionally sprinkle with a bit of extra cinnamon for a visual touch. Serve warm and watch them disappear!

Close up image of a spoon in a dish of candied yams

Tips And Tricks

Making Air Fryer Candied Yams is a delightful experience, and a few tips and tricks can help you achieve the best results:

Even Slices- Try to cut the yams into uniform slices to ensure even cooking. This helps maintain a consistent texture throughout.
Don't Overcrowd- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook the yams in a single layer to allow proper air circulation, ensuring they crisp up evenly.
Check for Doneness- Keep an eye on the yams as they cook to prevent burning. Adjust the cooking time if needed based on your air fryer model.

Variations

Feel free to get creative and add your own twist to these Air Fryer Candied Yams:

Pecans or Walnuts- Add a crunchy element by tossing in some chopped nuts before air frying.
Marshmallow Topping- For a classic holiday touch, sprinkle mini marshmallows on top during the last few minutes of cooking until they're golden brown.
Orange Zest- Enhance the flavor profile with a burst of citrus by adding a sprinkle of fresh orange zest before serving.

What To Serve With Candied Yams

These Air Fryer Candied Yams are a versatile side dish that pairs well with various main courses and holiday classics:

Roast Turkey or Chicken- The sweetness of the yams complements the savory flavors of roast poultry.
Glazed Ham- A festive ham glazed with flavors like maple or brown sugar is an excellent companion.
Pork Roast- Whether it's a pork loin or a succulent pork shoulder, the yams add a sweet contrast.
Vegetarian Options- For a vegetarian feast, serve these candied yams alongside dishes like stuffed acorn squash or vegetable Wellington.

How Long Do They Last?

Air Fryer Candied Yams are best enjoyed fresh, but if you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their delightful texture.

Can You Freeze Them?

While freezing may affect the texture, you can freeze candied yams in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating in the air fryer for the best results.

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