Easy Air Fryer Candied Yams: The Ultimate Quick & Delicious Sweet Potato Side Dish
It’s a funny thing how tastes evolve. As a child, Thanksgiving dinner often featured my mother’s candied yams, a dish I inexplicably avoided. Fast forward to adulthood, and they’ve become one of my most cherished holiday favorites, a testament to how much our palates can change over the years. Now, I’ve perfected my own version of this beloved classic, transforming it into a remarkably easy and incredibly flavorful dish using the magic of the air fryer. This simple recipe for air fryer candied yams is not just a side; it’s a celebration of comfort, convenience, and irresistible sweetness, promising to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Candied Yam Recipe
This isn’t just another side dish; it’s a hassle-free rendition of a classic Southern staple that brings warmth and sweetness to any meal, especially during the holidays. Featuring tender cubes of sweet potatoes coated in a rich, caramelized sauce of brown sugar, creamy butter, and a hint of fragrant cinnamon and ginger, this recipe promises pure delight. What makes it truly exceptional is its simplicity. You simply combine the ingredients, place them in your air fryer, and largely “set it and forget it.” It truly doesn’t get much easier to achieve such a luxurious and satisfying dish.
The air fryer is a game-changer for candied yams. Unlike traditional oven methods that can take ages, or stovetop versions requiring constant stirring to prevent burning, the air fryer delivers perfectly tender yams with beautifully caramelized edges in a fraction of the time. The circulating hot air creates an ideal environment for the sugars and butter to melt into a glossy, sticky glaze that clings to every piece of sweet potato, offering an unmatched depth of flavor and texture. Plus, freeing up your conventional oven is always a huge bonus, particularly during busy holiday cooking!
This recipe is also incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your personal taste. Feel free to experiment with various types of warm spices—nutmeg, allspice, or even a touch of pumpkin pie spice can add wonderful complexity. For an adult twist, a splash of dark or spiced rum elevates the flavor profile, adding a sophisticated depth. Furthermore, whether you prefer the freshness of raw sweet potatoes or the convenience of canned yams, this recipe accommodates both, making it versatile for whatever you have on hand or what’s available at your local grocery store. It’s a truly flexible recipe designed for maximum enjoyment with minimal effort.
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Essential Candied Yam Ingredients
Crafting perfect candied yams requires a few simple yet powerful ingredients that work in harmony to create that signature sweet, savory, and warmly spiced flavor. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the irresistible taste and texture of this beloved side dish.
- 1 pound sweet potatoes or yams (about 2 medium or 4 steamer-sized): The star of our show, providing a naturally sweet and earthy base.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: A classic warm spice that beautifully complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
- ½ tsp ginger: Adds a subtle, peppery warmth and depth, enhancing the overall spice profile.
- ½ tsp salt (or more to taste): Crucial for balancing the sweetness and bringing out the natural flavors of the other ingredients.
- ¼ cup dark brown sugar: Provides deep, rich molasses notes and contributes to the beautiful caramelization.
- 4 Tbsp butter (salted): Adds incredible richness, a smooth mouthfeel, and helps create that luxurious, glossy sauce.
Equipment Note: The Right Dish for Your Air Fryer
For this recipe, selecting the right cooking vessel is key to success. You’ll need an oven-safe dish that fits snugly into your air fryer’s basket or on its rack. This ensures that the sweet potatoes cook evenly in their delicious sauce without spilling or making a mess. Good options include a small glass or ceramic loaf pan, a compact casserole dish, a small cast iron pan (if your air fryer can handle the weight), or even a round cake pan. The goal is to find something that allows for good air circulation around it while still containing all the ingredients.
Ingredient Tips and Smart Substitutions
- You have the flexibility to use either fresh sweet potatoes or canned yams. If opting for canned, I strongly recommend choosing a variety packed in water, not syrup. Canned yams in syrup will significantly alter the sweetness level and potentially make the dish overly sugary. A 40-ounce can of water-packed yams is typically the right amount for this recipe. When using fresh, look for firm, unblemished sweet potatoes.
- All seasonings are fully adjustable to your personal preference. While cinnamon is the most traditional and provides a foundational warmth, I find that a touch of ginger adds a lovely, subtle zing. Other excellent warm spice options to consider are nutmeg, allspice, ground cloves, or a pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice blend for a more complex flavor profile. Feel free to start with the suggested amounts and add more to taste.
- You can certainly use light brown sugar in place of dark brown sugar. However, I personally prefer dark brown sugar for its deeper, more robust molasses flavor, which adds a richer caramel note to the candied yams. Light brown sugar will still work wonderfully, but the final flavor will be slightly milder.
- If you’re looking to add a little extra depth and a sophisticated kick, consider incorporating 1-2 tablespoons of dark or spiced rum. The alcohol cooks off during the air frying process, leaving behind a wonderful, aromatic flavor. However, it’s important to note that not 100% of the alcohol will evaporate, so please do not add rum if you are serving this dish to children or individuals who cannot consume alcohol.
How to Make Irresistible Candied Yams in the Air Fryer
Making candied yams in the air fryer is surprisingly straightforward, yielding a dish that’s both elegant and incredibly flavorful. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.
- Prepare Your Sweet Potatoes: Begin by peeling your sweet potatoes thoroughly. Once peeled, cut them into approximate ¾-inch cubes. Precision isn’t critical, but striving for relatively uniform pieces will ensure even cooking. If you’re using canned yams, simply drain them well to remove any excess liquid and then cut them into similar-sized chunks.
- Arrange in Dish: Lightly grease your chosen oven-safe casserole dish (or similar pan) that fits comfortably into your air fryer. This step is important to prevent sticking and aid in cleanup. Carefully place the prepared sweet potato pieces into the greased dish, spreading them out as evenly as possible.
- Layer the Flavor: Now it’s time to add the magic! Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon, ginger, and salt over the sweet potato pieces. Next, spread the dark brown sugar generously across the top. Finally, dot the surface with cubes of salted butter. I usually cut the butter into small pieces and distribute them evenly to ensure that the richness melts and coats all the potatoes as they cook. This layering creates a beautiful, rich syrup.
- Air Fry to Perfection: Carefully place the filled dish into your air fryer. Cook at 360°F (180°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are wonderfully soft and can be easily pierced with a fork. The cooking time will vary depending on your air fryer model and the exact size of your potato pieces. If you are using canned yams, reduce the initial cooking time to about 10 minutes, as they are already partially cooked. Midway through cooking, you might gently shake the dish to help distribute the developing syrup.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the hot dish from the air fryer. Give the candied yams a gentle stir to ensure all pieces are coated in the luscious, caramelized sauce. Serve them warm as a delightful side dish with your favorite entree, and prepare for rave reviews!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Candied Yams
Candied yams are incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic accompaniment to a wide array of main courses and other side dishes. Their sweet and savory profile, coupled with warm spices, complements many flavors beautifully. Whether you’re preparing a festive holiday feast or a comforting weeknight meal, you’ll find plenty of delicious partners for your air fryer candied yams.
- Roasted Chicken: The succulent, savory notes of roasted chicken provide a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the yams.
- Pork Chops: Glazed pork chops, especially with a hint of apple or sage, pair wonderfully with the rich caramel flavor.
- Turkey: A quintessential holiday pairing, the moist, flavorful turkey is perfectly complemented by the tender, sweet yams.
- Glazed Ham: The salty-sweet balance of a glazed ham is an iconic match for candied yams.
- Salmon: For a lighter option, pan-seared or baked salmon offers a healthy and delicious counterpoint to the sweetness.
- Kale Salad: A fresh, slightly bitter kale salad with a bright vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the yams.
- Green Salad: Any crisp green salad adds a refreshing element and texture contrast.
- Green Bean Casserole: A classic comfort food pairing, this creamy casserole complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
- Collard Greens: The earthy, slightly bitter flavor of collard greens creates a traditional Southern combination.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted or air-fried Brussels sprouts, especially with a balsamic glaze, offer a delightful savory crunch.
- Roasted Beets: Earthy and naturally sweet, roasted beets enhance the root vegetable goodness.
- Cauliflower: Roasted cauliflower, perhaps with some Parmesan, provides a mild, savory balance.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic, comforting pairing that many families love.
- Corn Casserole: Another Southern favorite, corn casserole adds a sweet and creamy element that harmonizes with the yams.
- Macaroni and Cheese: The ultimate comfort food, a cheesy mac and cheese provides a rich, savory contrast.
- Dressing or Stuffing: Whether it’s cornbread dressing or a savory herb stuffing, these dishes are traditional and delicious alongside candied yams.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any remaining sweet glaze.
- Applesauce: A simple, fruity applesauce adds a tart and refreshing side.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce is a perfect foil for the sweetness of the yams, especially during the holidays.
Whether you’re serving these air fryer candied yams for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or as part of a regular family meal, there are countless delicious entrees and other side dishes that pair wonderfully with them, making them a versatile and cherished addition to any menu.
For more air fryer inspiration, try my air fryer candied yams alongside my Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole, Air Fryer Cornbread Dressing, Air Fryer Beets and Brussels Sprouts, Smoked Turkey Wings in the Air Fryer, Microwave Applesauce, or Air Fryer Ham Steak!
Recipe FAQs About Air Fryer Candied Yams
How Long Do I Cook Candied Yams in the Air Fryer?
Cooking times can vary significantly but typically range between 10-20 minutes at 360°F (180°C). This duration is influenced by several factors: the specific model and wattage of your air fryer, the size and thickness of your yam or sweet potato pieces, and whether you’re using fresh or pre-cooked canned varieties. Fresh, larger chunks will naturally take longer. It’s crucial to check for doneness periodically, ensuring the sweet potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork, and adjust cooking time as needed to achieve your desired texture.
Can I Make Candied Yams in Advance and Reheat Them in the Air Fryer?
Yes, absolutely! Candied yams are an excellent make-ahead dish, perfect for busy holidays or meal prepping. You can prepare them completely, allow them to cool, and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheating them in the air fryer is quick and easy. To prevent the sugar topping from burning, I recommend reheating at a slightly lower temperature, typically around 325°F (160°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through. Stir gently after reheating to redistribute the luscious syrup.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure the Yams Are Coated Evenly with the Candied Mixture?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: simply layer the seasonings, brown sugar, and butter evenly over the yam pieces before cooking. As the dish cooks in the air fryer, the butter and sugar will naturally melt and combine with the moisture from the sweet potatoes, creating a delectable syrup that saturates every piece. For the most uniform coating, give the dish a gentle stir about halfway through the cooking process, and again just before serving, to ensure that the rich, sweet syrup is perfectly distributed across all the candied yams.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Candied Yams?
The sweetness level of candied yams is highly customizable. You have full control by simply altering the amount of brown sugar you add to the recipe. If you prefer a less sweet dish, start with a slightly smaller amount and taste as you go. For those with a sweeter tooth, you can increase the sugar, even up to double the suggested amount, though it’s always easier to add sweetness than to remove it! Additionally, you could experiment with alternative sweeteners like a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for different flavor nuances. Adding more potatoes can also help adjust the overall sweetness ratio.
Can I Add Marshmallows to the Candied Yams in the Air Fryer?
Absolutely! If you love that classic gooey, toasted marshmallow topping, you can easily add it to your air fryer candied yams. Simply add your marshmallows during the final 3 minutes of cooking. This allows them just enough time to melt, puff up, and achieve a beautiful golden-brown, caramelized crust without burning. I highly recommend using large marshmallows or even a marshmallow paste, as smaller mini marshmallows tend to be lighter and can sometimes get blown around by the air fryer’s powerful fan. Evenly spread them over the yams for a delightful finish.
What is the Difference Between Candied Yams and Sweet Potatoes?
Technically, yams and sweet potatoes are distinct vegetables. True yams are typically more starchy, less sweet, and have a drier texture compared to sweet potatoes, which are generally sweeter and moister. However, in common culinary usage in North America, particularly for recipes like candied yams, the terms are often used interchangeably. The vast majority of “candied yam” recipes actually call for sweet potatoes (often the orange-fleshed varieties), which are more widely available and naturally suited to the sweet preparation due to their higher sugar content. This recipe, like many others, uses sweet potatoes, but the traditional name “candied yams” persists.
Why Are My Candied Yams Runny?
Candied yams should have a lovely, thick syrup, but if yours are excessively runny, it typically indicates the presence of too much moisture. This can happen if the sweet potatoes release a lot of water during cooking or if the dish is cooked covered, trapping steam. To avoid this, ensure you’re not cooking the dish with a lid, as this can prevent evaporation. If your yams turn out too runny, you can try cooking them for a few additional minutes, uncovered, to allow some of the excess liquid to evaporate and the syrup to thicken. In a pinch, if it’s very severe, a very small cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tsp cold water) can be stirred into the hot liquid in the last few minutes of cooking to help thicken the sauce, though this is rarely needed with the air fryer method.
Recipe Pro Tips For the Best Air Fryer Candied Yams
Achieving candied yam perfection in your air fryer is simple with a few insider tricks. These tips will help you customize your dish and ensure outstanding results every time.
- You can alternatively thin slice your sweet potatoes, aiming for about ⅛-inch thick rounds or half-moons. This method significantly reduces the cooking time, typically to just 10-15 minutes, and results in a slightly different, often more delicate texture. If you happen to own a mandoline slicer, it will make achieving uniform thin slices much easier and quicker, but a sharp knife works too with a little care.
- For this specific recipe, I find there’s no need to preheat my air fryer. My candied yams consistently achieve a perfectly soft and thoroughly cooked texture after approximately 20 minutes total in my Ninja air fryer. However, it’s crucial to remember that cooking times can vary. Factors like the precise size and cut of your potato pieces, as well as the make and model of your specific air fryer, will influence the total duration. Always check for tenderness with a fork to ensure they’re cooked to your liking.
- Despite the generous amount of sugar in this recipe, I personally do not find the final dish to be overly sweet. The natural earthiness of the sweet potatoes and the balance of salt and spices prevent it from becoming cloying. If, however, you have a particular preference for a truly decadent, very sweet candied yam, feel free to increase the brown sugar amount as desired, even up to double. Remember, it’s always much easier to add more sweetness than it is to remove it, so adjust gradually if unsure.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Candied Yams
These air fryer candied yams are just as delicious the next day, making them excellent for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Proper storage and reheating will ensure they maintain their incredible flavor and texture.
- To store leftover candied yams, allow them to cool completely to room temperature first. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. They will keep beautifully for up to 5 days, making them a convenient option for busy weeks or holiday leftovers.
- When it comes to reheating, you have a couple of easy options. For a quick reheat, you can microwave a single serving for 30-60 seconds on high, stirring halfway through. For larger portions or to restore some of that lovely caramelization, place the candied yams back into an oven-safe dish (the same one you cooked them in works perfectly) and reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 325°F (160°C), or until they are warmed through to your satisfaction. The lower temperature helps prevent the sugar from burning while the yams heat evenly.
More Irresistible Sweet Potato Recipes
If you’re as much of a fan of sweet potatoes as we are, you’ll be delighted to explore more creative and delicious ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable. From savory sides to unexpected twists, sweet potatoes offer endless culinary possibilities that are perfect for any meal or occasion.
15 Min Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole: Thanksgiving Side!
Roasted Air Fryer Beets and Sweet Potatoes in 15 Minutes!
Air Fryer Hasselback Sweet Potatoes: Roasted to Perfection
Trader Joe’s Sweet Potato Gnocchi in the Air Fryer
- Ninja Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
- How to Make Sweet Potato Chips in the Microwave
Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Candied Yams
These easy air fryer candied yams are truly a standout side dish that comes together with minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. They are the epitome of comfort food, perfect for autumn gatherings, the centerpiece of a Thanksgiving feast, or adding a touch of sweetness to your Christmas dinner. The magical combination of sweet brown sugar, rich, savory butter, and fragrant warm cinnamon blends seamlessly to create an unparalleled sauce that coats every tender piece of roasted sweet potato.
The air fryer truly shines in this recipe, making it incredibly simple to achieve that ideal level of caramelization and tender texture with virtually no fuss. Say goodbye to constantly stirring or waiting ages for your oven to preheat. Depending on how you choose to prepare your sweet potatoes or yams—whether freshly cubed or using convenient canned varieties—this delightful side dish requires only 10 to 20 minutes of cooking time. What’s more, it keeps your conventional oven free, a precious commodity during the busy holiday season when you’re juggling multiple dishes. How wonderfully convenient is that for a stress-free and delicious meal!
Katie’s tip
Don’t stop at just candied yams! Be sure to check out my amazing Air Fryer Thanksgiving Recipes for a treasure trove of other fantastic dishes. You’ll find everything from appetizers and main courses to even desserts, all designed to be made easily and efficiently in your air fryer, making your holiday cooking a breeze!
Air Fryer Candied Yams (Brown Sugar Sweet Potatoes)
Equipment
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Air Fryer
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Measuring cups & spoons
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Vegetable knife
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Casserole dish (or similar dish that fits in your air fryer)
Ingredients
- 1 Pound sweet potatoes or yams (about 2 medium or 4 steamer-sized, ensuring they are fresh or water-packed if canned)
- 1 Tsp cinnamon (ground, for warm spice)
- ½ Tsp ginger (ground, for a subtle kick)
- ½ Tsp salt (or more to taste, essential for balance)
- ¼ Cup dark brown sugar (packed, for rich, deep caramel notes)
- 4 Tbsp butter (salted) (cut into cubes for even distribution)
Instructions
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Peel your sweet potatoes and cut them into about ¾” cubes (it doesn’t have to be exact, but aim for consistency for even cooking). If using canned yams, ensure they are thoroughly drained and then cut them into similar-sized chunks.1 Pound sweet potatoes or yams
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Place the potato pieces into a greased casserole dish (or similar oven-safe dish) that is designed to fit comfortably in your air fryer basket or on its rack. Arrange them in an even layer.
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Sprinkle the cinnamon, ginger, and salt evenly over the sweet potatoes. Next, spread the dark brown sugar over the top, and then finish by dotting the surface with the cubed salted butter (distribute the butter pieces evenly for optimal melting and coating).1 Tsp cinnamon, ½ Tsp ginger, ½ Tsp salt, ¼ Cup dark brown sugar, 4 Tbsp butter (salted)
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Carefully place the dish into the air fryer and cook for 15-20 minutes at 360°F (180°C), or until the sweet potatoes are beautifully soft and pierce easily with a fork. (If you are using canned potatoes, which are pre-cooked, reduce the initial cooking time to about 10 minutes to prevent overcooking, then check for doneness.) Gently stir the yams once or twice during cooking to ensure even caramelization.
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Serve warm with your favorite entree, and enjoy the rich, sweet flavors of this easy air fryer side dish!
Notes
- You can use fresh sweet potatoes or canned. If you are using canned, I recommend the variety packed in water (not syrup) or it will throw off the sweetness. A 40-ounce can is about right for this.
- All seasonings are adjustable to taste. Cinnamon is the most traditional, but I like the little bit of ginger. Other good options are nutmeg, allspice, cloves, or pumpkin pie spice.
- You can use light brown sugar instead of dark – I just prefer the deeper flavor you get.
- If you want to add rum, use 1-2 Tbsp of dark or spiced rum. Note that not 100% of the alcohol is going to cook off this way, so don’t add it if you have kids or are serving those who avoid alcohol!
- You can alternatively thin slice your sweet potatoes (about ⅛” thick) and reduce the cooking time to 10-15 minutes. If you have a mandolin slicer, it will make it much easier and more consistent!
- I do not preheat my air fryer for this recipe. My candied yams were perfectly soft and cooked after 20 minutes total in a Ninja air fryer. However, your exact time will vary based on the size of your potato pieces, and your specific air fryer. Always test for tenderness.
- Despite the sugar in this recipe, I do not find it to be overly sweet. If you like a really sweet candied yam, consider upping the sugar amount as desired, up to double (but it’s always easier to add than remove)!
- Store leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for best freshness.
- To reheat, microwave for 30-60 seconds on high, or place back in an oven-safe dish in the air fryer and heat for 3-5 minutes at 325°F (160°C), or until warmed through. Stir gently after reheating.
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand of ingredients, size of potatoes, any swaps or additions, and actual quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only.
Nutrition
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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