Kardea Brown’s Grandma’s Candied Yams with Pineapple
If you’re searching for a sweet and savory dish that captures the essence of Southern cooking, look no further than Kardea Brown’s Grandma’s Candied Yams with Pineapple. This delightful recipe is not just a dish; it’s a flavorful experience that pays homage to Kardea’s deep-rooted family traditions and culinary heritage. The combination of tender sweet potatoes baked in a buttery pineapple sauce, kissed with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, creates a mouthwatering side dish that’s ideal for your holiday table.
A Taste of Tradition
Growing up on the sea islands of Charleston, Kardea Brown learned to cook in her grandmother’s kitchen, where family recipes were treasured and shared. Her candied yams are a beautiful example of how she has taken these classic recipes and made them her own. The addition of pineapple not only enhances the sweetness but also brings a tropical flair, making these yams stand out.
Ingredients
To whip up this scrumptious dish, you’ll need:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch-thick rounds
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) salted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- One 20-ounce can crushed pineapple
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
1. Prepare the Oven and Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Place the sliced sweet potatoes in a 2-quart baking dish, setting them aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Create the Buttery Pineapple Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Stir in the granulated sugar until you achieve a smooth consistency. Drain the crushed pineapple, reserving its juice. Add half of both the pineapple and juice to the melted butter-sugar mixture.
3. Spice it Up
Stir in the ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and a pinch of kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then remove it from the heat. Add the pure vanilla extract to the blend and stir well.
4. Combine and Bake
Pour this luscious mixture over the sweet potatoes. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are just tender. After this initial bake, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to caramelize beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once they’re done, plate up the candied yams and ladle any extra sauce from the baking dish on top. Your guests won’t be able to resist this sweet and aromatic dish.
A Holiday Must-Have
Kardea Brown’s Grandma’s Candied Yams with Pineapple is a stunning addition to any holiday feast or family gathering. This recipe not only brings comfort and nostalgia but also leaves a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to dig in. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and watch as your kitchen fills with delightful aromas that transport you straight to the heart of Southern cooking. Enjoy!
Watch the video by Food Network
Video “Kardea Brown’s Grandma’s Candied Yams with Pineapple 🍠🍍 Delicious Miss Brown | Food Network” was uploaded on 11/14/2026 to Youtube Channel Food Network