Name: Irresistible Sweet Honey Glazed Yams Everyone Will Crave
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Yams (or sweet potatoes) (Choose firm, evenly sized yams for consistent cooking.); 3 tablespoons Butter (Adds a rich, creamy base.); 1/2 cup Honey (Star ingredient for sweetness.); 1/4 cup Brown sugar (Boosts caramelization.); 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon (Provides warm spice notes.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 tablespoon Fresh thyme or rosemary (Herbs add aromatic lift.); 1 tablespoon Orange juice (Adds a zesty tang.)

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There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of yams caramelizing in a pan, kissed by the sweet, golden glaze of honey. One afternoon, craving a side dish that felt both nostalgic and fresh, I whipped up this Sweet Honey Glazed Yams recipe—and it quickly became my go-to for family dinners and casual gatherings alike. What I love most is how effortlessly simple it is to transform humble yams into a luscious, crowd-pleasing dish, with just a handful of ingredients and a touch of patience. Whether you’re wanting to impress guests or just treat yourself to a cozy, homemade delight, these sweet, tender yams coated in glossy honey offer a perfect balance of flavor and warmth that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Why choose Sweet Honey Glazed Yams?

Simplicity shines in this easy-to-make side dish that requires minimal ingredients yet delivers maximum flavor. Sweet and warm, the honey glaze perfectly complements the natural earthiness of tender yams. Versatile enough for holiday feasts or casual dinners, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, quick prep time means you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying. Nostalgic comfort meets fresh flair in every luscious bite.

Sweet Honey Glazed Yams Ingredients

For the Yams

Yams (or sweet potatoes) – Choose firm, evenly sized yams for consistent cooking and the perfect tender texture.
Butter – Adds a rich, creamy base that enhances the glaze’s smooth finish.
Honey – The star ingredient that gives Sweet Honey Glazed Yams their irresistible sweetness and glistening shine.
Brown sugar – Boosts caramelization for a deeper, more complex sweet flavor.
Ground cinnamon – Provides a warm spice note that complements the natural yam sweetness beautifully.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the yam’s natural flavors.

Optional Enhancements

Fresh thyme or rosemary – Adding herbs pairs wonderfully with the honey glaze to give your dish a subtle aromatic lift.
A splash of orange juice – Brightens the glaze with a zesty tang that cuts through the sweetness and adds freshness.

How to Make Sweet Honey Glazed Yams

Prep Yams: Peel and slice yams into 1/2-inch rounds for even cooking; consistent thickness ensures tender centers and perfectly caramelized edges when the glaze is applied.
Parboil: Place yam slices in a pot of boiling water and simmer 4–5 minutes until just tender with a slight bite; avoid overcooking to prevent mushy texture.
Drain: Drain the yams in a colander and gently pat dry with paper towels; removing excess moisture helps the glaze stick and promotes better caramelization in the skillet.
Melt Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until it foams and becomes golden, about 2 minutes; this rich base will carry the honey glaze’s sweet flavor.
Make Glaze: Stir in honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth and bubbling, about 2 minutes; the glaze should thicken slightly and turn glossy.
Glaze Yams: Add drained yams to the skillet, toss gently to coat, and cook 5–7 minutes until edges caramelize to a deep amber hue, stirring occasionally for even coverage.
Herb Finish: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the yams and cook another minute until fragrant, adding a subtle aromatic touch that complements the sweet glaze beautifully.

Optional: garnish with flaky sea salt for pop of texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Honey Glazed Yams

Fridge: Store leftover Sweet Honey Glazed Yams in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the yams are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your yams in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Layer parchment paper between portions to prevent them from sticking together.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally for even heating.

Thawing: If frozen, it’s best to thaw Sweet Honey Glazed Yams overnight in the fridge before reheating for even warming and better texture.

Expert Tips for Sweet Honey Glazed Yams

Even Slices Matter: Cut yams into uniform 1/2-inch rounds to ensure they cook evenly and caramelize beautifully without turning mushy.
Parboil with Care: Simmer yams just until tender but still firm; overcooking leads to overly soft yams that won’t hold their shape under the glaze.
Dry Thoroughly: Pat yams dry after boiling to help the honey glaze stick better and achieve that irresistible glossy finish and caramelization.
Control the Heat: Keep the skillet on medium to avoid burning the honey glaze while allowing it to thicken and coat the yams perfectly.
Add Herbs Last: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary at the end for a fresh, aromatic lift—too early, and the herbs can lose their flavor.
Balance Sweetness: A pinch of salt enhances the natural yam flavor and balances the sweetness of the honey glaze, making each bite deliciously complex.

Variations & Substitutions for Sweet Honey Glazed Yams

Feel free to play around with these delightful variations to make this recipe your own!

Maple Syrup: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different sweet flavor profile that still brings on the deliciousness.
Coconut Oil: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option that adds a hint of tropical flavor to the glaze.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Nutty Finish: Top the glazed yams with toasted pecans or walnuts for an added crunch that enhances texture and flavor contrast.
Ginger Zest: Stir in a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for an aromatic twist that pairs wonderfully with yams and the honey glaze.
Citrus Burst: Replace brown sugar with grated zest of an orange or lemon to add a zesty, refreshing note that brightens up the dish.
Vegan Delight: Use a vegan butter substitute alongside maple syrup to create a completely plant-based version without sacrificing taste.
Fall Spice Mix: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a cozy, autumn-inspired flavor that elevates the overall experience.

What to Serve with Sweet Honey Glazed Yams?

Imagine a cozy dinner where the sweet aroma of yams beautifully mingles with hearty sides and delightful drinks.

Savory Herb Roasted Chicken: The tender, savory flavors of roasted chicken create a lovely contrast to the sweet glaze, making each bite a symphony of taste.
Garlic Green Beans: Crisp and fresh, these green beans add a vibrant color and crunch, balancing the yams’ tenderness and sweetness.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth, buttery potatoes create a comforting hearth alongside the yams, ensuring a delightful medley of textures.
Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The charred edges of these sweetened sprouts bring depth and sophistication, complementing the honey sweet notes of the yams.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of fresh cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the honey glaze, offering a refreshing burst of flavor and color.
Roasted Beet Salad: Earthy beets and tangy goat cheese amplify the warmth of the yams, while adding a burst of color and freshness to your table.
Sparkling Cider: An effervescent cider provides a refreshing way to cleanse the palate and enhance the sweetness of the yams without overwhelming your dish.
Pumpkin Pie: To finish off your meal, this classic dessert blends beautifully with sweet flavors, ensuring a memorable ending to your delicious spread.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Honey Glazed Yams are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can peel and slice the yams up to 24 hours in advance, then store them in cold water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. The glaze can also be made ahead; simply prepare it and let it cool before refrigerating for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the glaze gently while parboiling the yams until just tender, then follow the remaining cooking steps. This way, you’ll have a beautifully caramelized dish that’s just as delicious with minimal effort!

Sweet Honey Glazed Yams Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best yams for Sweet Honey Glazed Yams?
Look for firm yams with smooth skin and no dark spots or soft areas. Evenly sized tubers are best to ensure uniform cooking and tender slices that soak up the honey glaze perfectly.

Can I store leftover Sweet Honey Glazed Yams in the fridge?
Absolutely! Place cooled yams in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick reheat when you’re craving that comforting sweetness again.

Is it possible to freeze Sweet Honey Glazed Yams, and how should I do it?
Very! To freeze, first let the yams cool completely. Then layer slices separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in the oven or microwave.

What if my yams turn mushy while cooking?
This happens if they’re over-parboiled or sliced too thin. To avoid mushiness, simmer yams just 4–5 minutes until tender but firm, and slice them evenly about 1/2-inch thick. Also, drying thoroughly before glazing helps keep edges crisp.

Are Sweet Honey Glazed Yams safe for pets or suitable for special diets?
While yams can be healthy, the honey, brown sugar, and butter in this recipe aren’t ideal for pets and can cause digestive issues. For allergy-sensitive diets, substitute butter with a plant-based option and check for honey substitutes if avoiding sugars.