Slow Cooker Candied Yams

Published: November 13, 2025

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Candied Yams

This incredible Slow Cooker Candied Yams transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Slow Cooker Candied Yams:

Yams: Pick firm yams that have smooth skin; they should feel heavy for their size, which indicates moisture.
Brown Sugar: Use light or dark brown sugar depending on how caramelized you want your yams to be.
Cinnamon: A staple spice that adds warmth and depth—stick with ground cinnamon for easy mixing.
Butter: Go for unsalted butter to better control the saltiness of your dish while adding rich flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for a fragrant note that elevates the sweetness of the yams.

For the Topping:

Mini Marshmallows: These fluffy little delights can be added at the end for a gooey finish that kids (and adults) love.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Slow Cooker Candied Yams:

Step 1: Prepare Your Yams

Start by peeling and slicing about two pounds of yams into even rounds. Try not to let them resemble abstract art—aim for uniform slices so they cook evenly!

Step 2: Mix Your Sweetness

In a large bowl, blend together half a cup of brown sugar, two teaspoons of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Feel free to channel your inner baker and get creative with spices if you’re feeling adventurous!

Step 3: Layer It Up

Grease your slow cooker lightly with some cooking spray (or use butter if you’re feeling luxurious). Place half of the yam slices at the bottom and sprinkle half of your sweet mixture over them. Repeat this process with the remaining yams and sugar mix until everything is layered beautifully.

Step 4: Add Butter & Vanilla

Slice four tablespoons of butter into small pieces and scatter them on top. Then drizzle in two teaspoons of vanilla extract because life is too short for anything less than fabulous!

Step 5: Cook It Low & Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let those beauties cook for about four hours or until they’re fork-tender—this is where patience pays off big time!

Step 6: Add Marshmallows (Optional)

If you’re feeling extra indulgent (who isn’t?), remove the lid after about three hours in and sprinkle mini marshmallows on top. Cover again and let them melt during the last hour of cooking.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with syrup if desired for the perfect finishing touch.

Now that you’ve navigated through this delightful journey called Slow Cooker Candied Yams, consider yourself equipped with a recipe that’s bound to bring joy to every dinner table! With each bite filled with sweetness and nostalgia, you’ll create memories just as delicious as those first encounters I shared. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just Tuesday night, these yams will surely become a staple in your kitchen!

You Must Know About Slow Cooker Candied Yams

This showstopping Slow Cooker Candied Yams delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Candied Yams, start by peeling and slicing the yams into even pieces. Layer them in the slow cooker, then mix your butter, sugar, and spices before pouring over the yams for maximum flavor infusion.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Slow Cooker Candied Yams! Consider swapping brown sugar for maple syrup or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Toss in some chopped pecans or marshmallows for extra texture and sweetness if you dare!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Slow Cooker Candied Yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain their deliciousness.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Slow Cooker Candied Yams

This professional-quality Slow Cooker Candied Yams relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

The first time I made Slow Cooker Candied Yams for Thanksgiving, my family couldn’t stop raving about them! My cousin even tried to take home leftovers—let’s just say I wasn’t having any of that!

FAQs

What is Slow Cooker Candied Yams?

Slow Cooker Candied Yams are a delicious side dish made from sweet potatoes cooked slowly with sugar, butter, and spices. This comforting recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the yams tender and sweet. The slow cooker method makes it easy to prepare this dish without constant supervision, making it perfect for holiday dinners or family gatherings.

How do you make Slow Cooker Candied Yams?

To make Slow Cooker Candied Yams, start by peeling and slicing sweet potatoes. Then, layer them in the slow cooker with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and butter. Cook on low for several hours until the yams are fork-tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even coating with the syrup created during cooking. Enjoy this simple yet rich dish that complements any meal.

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

While sweet potatoes are traditional for candied yams due to their natural sweetness and flavor profile, you can experiment with regular potatoes. However, keep in mind that they won’t have the same sweetness or texture as yams. Adjusting the sugar and spices will be necessary to achieve a similar taste. Sweet potatoes truly shine in this recipe.

Are Slow Cooker Candied Yams a healthy option?

Slow Cooker Candied Yams can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. While they contain sugars and fats from butter, sweet potatoes offer essential nutrients such as vitamins A and C. You can make healthier versions by reducing sugar or using alternatives like maple syrup or honey. Always consider portion sizes when serving this delightful dish.

Conclusion

In summary, Slow Cooker Candied Yams are an easy and flavorful addition to your meal repertoire. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes while allowing you to enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience thanks to your slow cooker. Whether for holidays or family dinners, these yams will surely impress your guests with their delightful taste and aroma. Try making them soon!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card