Nothing beats a comforting dish of soft, caramelized yams when you’re craving something sweet and hearty. These versatile tubers cook to tender perfection in the slow cooker, soaking up all the warm flavors of maple syrup and cinnamon along the way. The result is a side dish that’s both cozy and satisfying—ideal for busy weeknights or holiday feasts.
Ingredients
- 4 medium yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Optional garnish: chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
Begin by preparing the yams. Rinse them thoroughly, peel the skins, and chop them into even chunks. This step helps everything cook at roughly the same pace. Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
Next, place the yam chunks into the slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted butter (or coconut oil), cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Pour this mixture over the yams, ensuring each piece is covered in the sweet glaze.
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low. Let the yams cook for about 4 to 5 hours, or until they’re fork-tender. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, begin checking at the 3½-hour mark. Throughout cooking, you can gently stir once or twice to make sure the maple-cinnamon mixture coats every bite.
When the yams are done, carefully remove the lid and give them another gentle stir. For extra richness, you can sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top and let them warm through in the slow cooker for a few minutes before serving.
These maple-glazed yams are best enjoyed straight from the slow cooker, but they also reheat beautifully if you have leftovers.
For a healthy twist, try reducing the amount of sweetener or swapping the butter for coconut oil. You could also add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of vanilla extract to switch up the flavor profile.
In all, this recipe offers a warm and satisfying dish that suits family dinners and potlucks alike. Whether you’re cutting back on refined sugar, experimenting with dairy-free options, or just looking for a comforting side to share around the table, these slow cooker yams check every box. Simple, sweet, and undeniably tasty—dive in with a spoonful of maple-cinnamon goodness!
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
