Get ready to transform your ordinary side dish into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! This Cinnamon Apple Yam Bake is not just a recipe – it's a warm hug on a plate, combining the sweet earthiness of yams, the crisp tang of apples, and the rich crunch of pecans in a dish that's both sophisticated and comforting. Perfect for holiday gatherings, weeknight dinners, or when you simply want to elevate your meal with a touch of delicious magic.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Side Dish
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium yams, peeled and cubed
- 2 apples, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Wash and peel the yams. Cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Place the cubed yams in the prepared baking dish.
- Wash, peel, and core the apples. Chop them into similar-sized pieces as the yams, approximately 1-inch chunks.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Pour the butter-sugar mixture over the yams and apples in the baking dish. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to toss and coat the vegetables and fruit evenly.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the yam and apple mixture, distributing them evenly.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help steam and soften the yams during the initial baking.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes covered.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes to allow the top to caramelize and the pecans to become lightly toasted.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. The yams should be tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish, garnishing with additional cinnamon or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose firm, fresh yams and apples for the best texture and flavor. Look for yams with smooth, unblemished skin and apples that are crisp and free from bruises.
- Cut your yams and apples into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. This helps prevent some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain undercooked.
- For extra richness, consider using brown butter instead of regular melted butter. Brown the butter in a pan until it develops a nutty aroma before mixing with sugar and cinnamon.
- If you want a more caramelized top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Feel free to experiment with nuts – while pecans are delicious, walnuts or almonds can also work wonderfully in this recipe.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or potluck gatherings.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
