Name: Candied Yams Pecan Streusel
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup pecan halves, roughly chopped; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed (for streusel); 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (for streusel); 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for streusel); Pinch of salt (for streusel)

Delicious candied yams topped with pecan streusel in a serving dish

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There’s something utterly enchanting about the aroma of candied yams wafting through your home, especially when you nestle a warm dish in the heart of a gathering. As the luscious sweetness engulfs the room, it becomes impossible to resist the call of beautifully caramelized yams topped with a crunchy pecan streusel. Each bite offers a joyous symphony of flavors — soft, tender yams melting in your mouth, contrasted with the delightful crunch of toasted pecans. The warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg plays its comforting tune, wrapping you in a cozy embrace, reminiscent of joyful holidays spent around a table filled with loved ones.

As you dive into this delightful dish, you’ll find that the creamy richness of maple syrup and heavy cream dances harmoniously with the buttery goodness of golden yams, each element contributing to a memorable texture. The sweet, nutty topping not only adds an irresistible crunch, but also an enticing visual feast — golden-brown streusel beckoning both eyes and appetite alike, making it the star of any meal. Whether it’s a sumptuous family feast or a holiday celebration, this candied yams pecan streusel dish stands proud as a favorite that evokes nostalgia while creating new memories.

Why You’ll Love This Candied Yams Pecan Streusel

This candied yams pecan streusel is more than just food; it’s a heartwarming experience that invites nostalgia and joy to your dining table. Its velvety texture and rich, natural sweetness are elevated by the earthy crunch of pecans, creating a perfect balance that excites the palate. With every bite, you’re treated to layers of flavor that encapsulate comfort and celebration.

What makes this dish stand out is its versatility. Devour it at Thanksgiving, serve it at a family gathering, or simply indulge as a sweet side to a cozy Sunday dinner. The warmth of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg takes you on an aromatic journey that compliments the seasonal feel of roasted meats or festive dishes. In addition to being a soul-soothing side, it’s a delightful way to showcase nutritious sweet potatoes or yams, transforming a humble vegetable into a festive indulgence.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating this stunning dish might sound like an ambitious task, but with a few essential tools and a sprinkle of love, you will master it easily. Here are the must-haves for this candied yams pecan streusel:

Large Pot: Essential for boiling the yams until they reach that perfect tenderness; size matters as you want enough space to prevent overcrowding.
Colander: Use this to drain the yams efficiently, ensuring that excess moisture doesn’t water down the flavors.
Mixing Bowls: A large one for the yams and a medium one for the streusel will help keep things organized and make mixing effortless.
Pastry Blender or Fork: Perfect for incorporating cold butter into your dry ingredients, achieving that crumbly, delightful streusel topping.
9×13-Inch Baking Dish: A classic choice for even baking, this dish showcases the beauty of your creation while ensuring even heat distribution.

Practical Preparation Tips

For a smooth cooking process, always have your ingredients prepped ahead of time. This means peeling and cubing your yams, measuring out the maple syrup, and having your spices ready to go. A dash of patience in letting the baked dish rest before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy the process; cooking should be as pleasurable as savoring the final dish!

Ingredients for Candied Yams Pecan Streusel

3 pounds yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the streusel:

1 cup pecan halves, roughly chopped
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Key Ingredients and Possible Substitutions

The yams or sweet potatoes form the core of this recipe, contributing sweetness and a creamy texture. For a lighter twist, you can use butternut squash or pumpkin, but the taste will slightly differ. Pure maple syrup enhances the sweetness and natural flavor, but agave nectar or honey can substitute if needed. Heavy cream provides richness, but you can swap it with coconut milk for a vegan option. Pecans lend a delightful crunch; however, walnuts or almonds work well as alternatives if you’re in need of a change.

How to Make Candied Yams Pecan Streusel

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to warm up as you prepare the dish.
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the yam cubes and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, until they become tender yet still hold their shape. Drain thoroughly using a colander, letting them sit to dry out a bit.
Transfer the cooked yams to a large mixing bowl. Pour in the melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gently toss until each yam piece is evenly coated with the luscious mixture.
Pour the yam mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for the streusel. Add cold cubed butter and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Fold in the chopped pecans, adding a delightful crunch.
Distribute the pecan streusel evenly across the surface of the yams, creating a golden topping.
Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the edges begin to bubble, releasing that irresistible scent.
Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld, enhancing your taste experience.

Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips

Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the yams and the streusel a day ahead. Simply assemble them in the baking dish and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to deepen!
Cooking Alternatives: Want to speed things up? Consider using an air fryer! Cook the yams in batches to achieve a tender exterior while maintaining that lovely interior.
Customization Ideas: Sprinkle in some mini marshmallows for a sugary twist, or add a splash of bourbon for an adult flavor profile. Fresh herbs like rosemary can also introduce an unexpected layer of complexity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls will elevate your candied yams pecan streusel from good to unforgettable.

Overcooking the yams can lead to mushiness; they should be tender but not falling apart when mixed.
Too much liquid can dilute the flavor; always ensure your yams are drained well before combining with your sweet elements.
Not letting them rest post-baking isn’t ideal; doing this enhances the flavor and makes serving easier.

What to Serve With Candied Yams Pecan Streusel

Pairing this dish with complementary flavors elevates your meal to a remarkable celebration. Consider the following:

Roasted Turkey: The savory notes contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the yams.
Glazed Ham: The sweetness of the ham complements the candied yams splendidly.
Gumbo or Jambalaya: For those who love Southern flavors, the combination creates a flavor-packed dinner.
Herb-Roasted Chicken: The herby, savory chicken makes the candied yams shine as a delightful side.
Stuffing: The earthy flavors of stuffing are a traditional match made in holiday heaven.
Green Beans: Adding a splash of color and freshness, sautéed green beans balance the richness of the yams.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftover candied yams pecan streusel correctly extends their deliciousness.

In the fridge, these can last for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
For longer storage, place them in a freezer-safe container, where they’ll maintain quality for 2 to 3 months.
To reheat: Simply warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Ensure you cover them with foil to keep them moist.

Estimated Nutrition Information

The estimated nutritional information per serving of candied yams pecan streusel is approximately:

Calories: 320
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 3g

(These values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion size.)

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of yams?
For this dish, yams or sweet potatoes provide the signature sweetness and texture. Regular potatoes will deliver a different flavor and aren’t recommended.

Can I prepare the streusel topping ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the streusel mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in advance. Just toss it on top just before baking.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
It can be adapted to vegan by substituting butter with a plant-based alternative, heavy cream with coconut cream, and omitting the eggs (which this recipe does not include).

How can I make this lower in sugar?
Reduce the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup used, and utilize sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol. The flavor may vary, but it can still be delicious.

Can I add other nuts or toppings?
Certainly! Feel free to switch it up with walnuts or almonds. You can also add shredded coconut or even a sprinkle of chocolate chips for an extra special treat.

Conclusion

As you gather the ingredients for this candied yams pecan streusel, indulge in the anticipation of creating a dish that’s destined to impress. Let the warm flavors and delightful textures bring your family and friends together, enveloping them in the aroma of comfort and nostalgia. Each spoonful tells a story of togetherness and joy, making it a beloved addition to any table. Don’t hesitate — immerse yourself in this joyous culinary adventure, and may every bite bring warmth to your heart and home!

Hi, I’m Clara!

I'm a food lover and a firm believer that anyone can learn to cook with a little curiosity and courage. My story with food didn’t begin in a tiny apartment with a two-burner stove and a stack of cookbooks from the local library. I was broke and desperate to make something anything that felt like home.

About Me