Introduction

Candied yams are a staple in holiday meals, bringing a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and rich buttery goodness to the table. Whether served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, this comforting dish has long been a favorite side that complements a variety of main courses. Here is a simple candied yams recipe for you to try at home.

Made with tender yams coated in a luscious glaze of brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this classic Southern-inspired recipe delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. Some prefer a traditional preparation, while others enjoy adding marshmallows for a caramelized, gooey topping.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect candied yams—from choosing the right yams to mastering the ideal blend of flavors. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible dish that tastes like a warm holiday hug!

What You Need to Know About Candied Yams Recipe

Ingredients Overview: Key Ingredients for the Perfect Candied Yams Recipe

The success of your candied yams recipe largely depends on selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that rich, caramelized sweetness and tender texture. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients and their importance:

1. Yams or Sweet Potatoes

• Many people use the terms yams and sweet potatoes interchangeably, but in most North American grocery stores, what is labeled as “yams” is actually a variety of sweet potato with a deep orange flesh.
• Best choice: Look for firm, medium-sized yams with a smooth, unblemished skin. These will cook evenly and provide the best texture.

2. Brown Sugar

• The essential sweetener in this dish, brown sugar caramelizes beautifully when baked, giving the yams a rich, deep sweetness.
• Light vs. Dark Brown Sugar:
  • Light brown sugar has a milder molasses flavor.
  • Dark brown sugar has a stronger, more intense caramel-like taste. Either can be used, depending on your preference.

3. Butter

• Butter is the key to richness in candied yams. It helps bind the sugar and spices while enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
• Salted vs. Unsalted Butter:
  • Unsalted butter gives you better control over the dish’s salt level.
  • Salted butter adds an extra touch of flavor but may require you to adjust additional salt in the recipe.

4. Cinnamon and Nutmeg

• Cinnamon is the main spice, providing a warm, aromatic depth to the dish.
• Nutmeg adds a slightly nutty, sweet-spicy note that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• For extra warmth, some people also add a pinch of ginger or allspice to enhance the holiday flavor.

5. Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

• Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle, sweet undertone that enhances the caramelized glaze.
• Marshmallows: For those who love an extra indulgent topping, mini marshmallows create a gooey, toasted layer.
• Orange Zest: A fresh citrus note can balance out the sweetness and add a hint of brightness.
• Pecans or Walnuts: For a crunchy contrast, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking.

Equipment Needed: Must-Have Kitchen Tools for Candied Yams

While making candied yams doesn’t require specialized equipment, having the right kitchen tools can make the process easier and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Sharp Knife & Cutting Board

• A sharp knife is essential for peeling and slicing the yams evenly.
• A sturdy cutting board ensures safety and stability while cutting.

2. Peeler (Optional but Recommended)

• A vegetable peeler makes peeling yams much quicker and easier compared to using a knife.

3. Saucepan or Skillet

• If you prefer to pre-cook the glaze, a small saucepan or skillet will help melt the butter and blend the brown sugar and spices before pouring over the yams.

4. Baking Dish (9×13-inch Recommended)

• A glass or ceramic baking dish allows the yams to cook evenly and absorb the syrupy glaze.
• A metal baking dish works too but may require adjusting baking time.

5. Aluminum Foil (Optional)

• Covering the yams during the first half of baking can help them cook thoroughly before caramelizing the top layer.

6. Mixing Bowls & Spoon

• For tossing the sliced yams with the glaze before baking.

7. Basting Brush or Spoon

• Helps evenly distribute the syrup over the yams while baking, ensuring a rich and flavorful coating.

Preparation Time: How Long Does It Take to Make Candied Yams?

Making candied yams is relatively simple, but the process involves peeling, slicing, seasoning, and baking, which takes some time. Here’s an estimated breakdown:

1. Preparation Time (15-20 Minutes)

• Peeling and Slicing Yams: 10 minutes
• Mixing the Glaze: 5 minutes
• Preheating the Oven & Arranging Yams in Dish: 5 minutes

2. Cooking Time (45-60 Minutes Total)

• First Bake (Covered): 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to soften the yams.
• Second Bake (Uncovered): 15-20 minutes to caramelize the glaze and achieve a slightly crispy top.
• If adding marshmallows, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end until golden brown.

3. Total Time: 1 Hour 15 Minutes (Approx.)

• From prep to serving, expect the entire process to take around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

This timing allows the yams to become perfectly tender while the buttery, spiced glaze thickens into a luscious coating.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Candied Yams 

Preparation Steps: Detailed Steps for Preparing the Yams Before Cooking

Before you begin baking your candied yams recipe, it’s essential to prepare them properly to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the delicious brown sugar and butter glaze. Follow these step-by-step preparation instructions for the best results:

1: Select and Wash the Yams

• Choose fresh, firm yams or sweet potatoes that are free of bruises and blemishes.
• Rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or residue. Since they grow underground, they often have soil on their skin.

2: Peel the Yams

• Use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to remove the skin from each yam.
• If using a knife, carefully glide it along the surface to avoid removing too much of the flesh.

3: Slice the Yams Evenly

• Cut the peeled yams into ¼ to ½-inch thick slices.
• You can slice them into rounds or lengthwise strips, depending on your preference.
• Cutting them uniformly ensures even cooking, preventing some pieces from becoming too mushy while others remain undercooked.

4: Parboiling (Optional Step for Softer Yams)

• If you want extra tender yams, parboil them before baking.
• Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the sliced yams, and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked.
• Drain and allow them to cool slightly before assembling them in the baking dish.

Cooking Process: Guide Through the Cooking Process, Including Oven Temperatures and Timings

Once your yams are prepped, it’s time to bake them with the rich, spiced glaze. Follow these steps for a perfectly caramelized and tender candied yam dish.

1: Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat before baking.
• This temperature ensures the yams cook thoroughly while the sugar and butter glaze caramelizes without burning.

2: Prepare the Glaze

• In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir until well combined and the sugar starts to dissolve into a syrupy consistency.
• If you like a richer caramelization, cook the glaze for 2-3 minutes, but avoid letting it burn.

3: Arrange the Yams in the Baking Dish

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
• Arrange the sliced yams in an even layer, slightly overlapping them for better caramelization.

4: Pour the Glaze Over the Yams

• Evenly pour the warm glaze over the sliced yams, ensuring all pieces are coated.
• Use a spoon or basting brush to spread the syrup over any dry spots.

5: Cover and Bake

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture and allow the yams to soften.
• Bake for 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
• Covering the dish helps the yams absorb the glaze and become tender before caramelizing.

6: Uncover and Continue Baking

• After 30 minutes, remove the foil and baste the yams with the syrup from the bottom of the dish.
• Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for 15-20 more minutes until the glaze thickens and the edges of the yams start to caramelize.
• If the glaze looks too runny, let it bake for a few extra minutes to allow the sugars to thicken.

Finishing Touches: How to Add Marshmallows or Other Toppings for the Final Bake

Now comes the fun part—adding the finishing touches to enhance the texture and flavor of your candied yams! Whether you prefer a gooey marshmallow topping or a crunchy nutty texture, here’s how to complete your dish:

1: Classic Marshmallow Topping

• When to Add: Once the yams have baked for about 45-50 minutes, sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly over the top.
• How to Broil: Switch the oven to broil on low heat and place the dish back in the oven for 2-3 minutes. Watch closely, as marshmallows toast quickly and can burn easily.
• Perfect Texture: The marshmallows should be golden brown and slightly melted, creating a deliciously soft and caramelized topping.

2: Pecan or Walnut Crunch Topping

• For added crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the yams before the final 10 minutes of baking.
• This adds a rich, nutty contrast to the soft, sweet yams.

3: Candied Glaze Finish

• If you prefer extra caramelization, spoon some of the syrup from the bottom of the dish over the yams before serving.
• Let the dish sit for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow the glaze to thicken naturally.

Final Tip: Let It Rest

• After removing from the oven, let the dish rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This allows the syrup to settle and ensures every bite is full of rich, buttery sweetness.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Candied Yams

Choosing the Right Yams: Tips on Selecting the Best Yams for Candying

The foundation of a perfect candied yams recipe starts with selecting the right type of yams (or sweet potatoes). While the terms yam and sweet potato are often used interchangeably in North America, most grocery stores actually sell sweet potatoes labeled as yams. Here’s how to pick the best ones for your recipe:

1. True Yams vs. Sweet Potatoes

• True yams have rough, scaly brown skin and are more starchy than sweet, making them less ideal for candied yams. These are mostly found in African, Asian, or Caribbean markets.
• Sweet potatoes (often called yams in the U.S.) have smooth, reddish-orange skin and bright orange flesh. They are naturally sweet and perfect for caramelizing.

For candied yams, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes work best because they become soft and creamy when baked while still holding their shape.

2. Characteristics of the Best Yams for Candying

• Firm and heavy: Choose yams that feel heavy for their size, indicating they have plenty of moisture.
• Smooth skin: Avoid yams with bruises, soft spots, or cuts, as they may not cook evenly.
• Medium to large size: Smaller yams may be difficult to peel and slice, while extra-large yams can be too fibrous.

3. Prepping for Better Texture

• Store yams in a cool, dry place before cooking—avoid refrigeration, as it can make them hard and affect their sweetness.
• If you want an extra soft and tender texture, some people like to pre-roast or microwave them slightly before slicing and baking.

Spice Variations: Suggestions for Customizing the Flavors

The classic candied yams recipe relies on a warm blend of spices, but you can customize the flavors to suit your taste. Here are some ways to tweak the spice blend:

1. Traditional Spice Blend (Warm & Cozy)

This is the classic combination used in most Southern-style candied yams:
✔ Cinnamon – The main spice, giving a warm, sweet depth.
✔ Nutmeg – Adds a slightly nutty, earthy flavor.
✔ Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness of the glaze.

2. Bold & Spicy Variation (For Extra Warmth)

If you want a bolder, slightly spicier kick, try adding:
✔ Ginger (¼ tsp) – A touch of spice that complements the brown sugar.
✔ Cloves (¼ tsp) – Adds a deeper, slightly peppery note.
✔ Allspice (¼ tsp) – A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in one spice.

3. Citrus-Infused Variation (For a Bright Twist)

For a fresher, lighter version of candied yams, add:
✔ Orange Zest (1 tsp) – Brightens up the sweetness.
✔ Lemon Juice (1 tbsp) – Balances the richness of the butter and sugar.
✔ Cardamom (¼ tsp) – Adds a mild citrus-spice note.

4. Maple & Bourbon Variation (For a Gourmet Touch)

If you want a richer, slightly smoky and indulgent flavor, try:
✔ Maple Syrup (2 tbsp) – Adds deep caramel-like sweetness.
✔ Bourbon (1 tbsp, optional) – Enhances the caramelized glaze.
✔ Toasted Pecans – Adds crunch and nuttiness.

By experimenting with different spices, you can tailor the candied yams to match your taste preferences or the theme of your holiday meal.

Texture and Consistency: How to Achieve the Perfect Candied Yams

A great candied yams recipe should have soft, tender yams coated in a rich, caramelized glaze—not too mushy, not too dry. Achieving the perfect texture and consistency comes down to cooking techniques and ingredient balance.

1. How to Prevent Mushy Yams

One common mistake is overcooking the yams until they turn into a mashed consistency. Here’s how to avoid mushy yams:
✔ Cut yams evenly: Thick slices (about ¼ to ½ inch) ensure they cook evenly without falling apart.
✔ Don’t overbake: Cover and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for only 15-20 minutes more.
✔ Avoid excess liquid: If the glaze is too thin, it can make the yams watery instead of caramelized.

2. How to Get a Thick, Sticky Glaze

The best candied yams have a thick, syrupy glaze that clings to the yams instead of being too runny. Here’s how to achieve that perfect consistency:
✔ Pre-cook the glaze: Simmer butter, brown sugar, and spices in a saucepan before pouring over the yams. This helps the sugar dissolve properly.
✔ Use the right sugar-to-butter ratio: A good base is 1 cup brown sugar to ½ cup butter—adjusting more sugar makes it thicker, more butter makes it silkier.
✔ Bake uncovered toward the end: This allows the glaze to caramelize and thicken as some moisture evaporates.

3. Should You Stir During Baking?

• Yes, but gently! After the first 30 minutes, lightly baste the yams with the syrup using a spoon.
• Don’t stir aggressively—overmixing can break the yams into a mushy texture.

4. How to Get a Slightly Crisp Top Layer

• For a caramelized crust, you can broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
• If you’re adding marshmallows, let them toast under the broiler until golden brown.

By following these steps, your candied yams will have the ideal balance of softness, sweetness, and caramelized perfection!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Candied Yams

Overcooking Yams: How to Avoid Making the Yams Too Mushy

One of the most common mistakes when making candied yams is overcooking them, which results in a mushy, unappealing texture. The goal is to achieve tender yet firm yams that hold their shape while absorbing the sweet, spiced glaze. Here’s how to prevent overcooking and get the perfect texture every time.

1. Choose the Right Yam Thickness

• The thickness of the slices affects cooking time and texture.
• Ideal thickness: ¼-inch to ½-inch slices—this ensures they cook evenly without becoming too soft.
• Too thin: Yams will break apart easily and become mushy.
• Too thick: They may take too long to cook and won’t absorb the syrup well.

2. Bake at the Right Temperature

• Baking yams at too high a temperature can cause them to break down too quickly.
• Best temperature: 375°F (190°C) allows the yams to caramelize without turning to mush.
• Avoid extreme heat: Cooking at 400°F or higher for too long can make them overly soft and watery.

3. Avoid Overbaking

• Covered baking time: Bake for 30 minutes covered with foil.
• Uncovered baking time: Bake for 15-20 minutes more to allow caramelization.
• Check for doneness: Yams should be fork-tender but not falling apart.

4. Parboiling: Yes or No?

• Some people parboil their yams before baking, but over-boiling can make them too soft.
• If you choose to parboil, only cook for 5-7 minutes, just until slightly tender.
• Drain immediately and let cool before baking to prevent overcooking in the oven.

By following these tips, you can achieve perfectly soft, but not mushy candied yams with a rich caramelized glaze.

Underseasoning: Importance of Balancing Spices and Sugar

A great candied yams recipe is all about balance—not too sweet, not too bland. Many home cooks make the mistake of not adding enough seasoning, which results in a dish that tastes flat. Here’s how to ensure the perfect flavor balance between spices and sugar.

1. The Right Sugar-to-Butter Ratio

• The sweetness comes from brown sugar, and the richness comes from butter.
• Recommended ratio:
  ✔ 1 cup brown sugar
  ✔ ½ cup butter
  ✔ 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional for extra depth)
• Using too much sugar makes the dish cloyingly sweet, while too little can make it taste bland.

2. Key Spices for Flavor Depth

• The right mix of warm spices ensures the dish has layers of flavor beyond just sweetness.
• Essential spices:
  ✔ Cinnamon (1 tsp) – The backbone of warm, cozy flavor.
  ✔ Nutmeg (½ tsp) – Adds depth and a hint of nuttiness.
  ✔ Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances sweetness naturally.
• Optional add-ins for more flavor:
  ✔ Ginger (¼ tsp) – Adds a mild kick of spice.
  ✔ Allspice (¼ tsp) – Adds a complex, slightly peppery warmth.
  ✔ Orange Zest (1 tsp) – Brightens the dish and balances the sugar.

3. Balancing Sweetness with Acidity

• A small amount of acidity prevents the dish from being overwhelmingly sweet.
• Best options:
  ✔ Lemon juice (1 tbsp) – Helps balance rich sweetness.
  ✔ Apple cider vinegar (½ tbsp) – Provides a tangy contrast.

4. Salt: The Secret Ingredient

• A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and prevents the dish from being one-dimensional.
• Use just a pinch (¼ tsp)—it won’t make the yams salty, but it will enhance the caramelized glaze.

With the right balance of spices, sugar, and acidity, your candied yams will have a perfect depth of flavor that isn’t overly sweet or bland.

Topping Tips: Best Practices for Adding Marshmallows and Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Adding marshmallows is a popular way to give candied yams a gooey, golden-brown topping, but it can sometimes lead to uneven melting or burning. Here’s how to do it the right way for the perfect finishing touch.

1. When to Add Marshmallows

• Don’t add marshmallows too early! They melt quickly and can burn if left in the oven for too long.
• Best time to add them: During the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
• If using a broiler, only broil for 2-3 minutes to toast the tops without burning.

2. Choosing the Right Marshmallows

• Mini marshmallows work best because they melt evenly.
• Regular large marshmallows can be used, but they take longer to melt and may not spread evenly.
• For a fun twist, try flavored marshmallows (like vanilla or cinnamon) for extra depth.

3. How to Prevent Marshmallow Burning

• Use the broiler carefully:
  ✔ Set the oven to low broil.
  ✔ Place the dish on the middle rack to prevent direct exposure to heat.
  ✔ Watch closely—marshmallows can burn in seconds!
• Cover partially with foil if they brown too quickly but the yams still need more baking time.

4. Alternative Toppings for Extra Crunch

If you want a crunchier topping instead of marshmallows, try:
✔ Pecan or walnut crumble: Mix chopped pecans with a little brown sugar and sprinkle over the yams before baking.
✔ Coconut flakes: Lightly toasted coconut adds a unique, slightly tropical flavor.
✔ Oat Streusel: A mix of oats, butter, and brown sugar creates a crumbly, pie-like topping.

By timing the marshmallow addition correctly and considering alternative toppings, you’ll achieve a perfectly caramelized, visually appealing, and deliciously gooey topping for your candied yams.

Serving and Pairing Ideas for Candied Yams 

Serving Suggestions: Best Ways to Serve Candied Yams During the Holidays

Candied yams are a classic holiday side dish that brings warmth, sweetness, and nostalgia to the table. Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or other festive gatherings, serving them properly can enhance their flavor and presentation.

1. Serving Temperature: Hot or Warm?

• Candied yams taste best when served hot or warm, as the buttery brown sugar glaze is at its richest and most caramelized.
• If serving a large crowd, consider keeping them in a slow cooker on the warm setting to maintain temperature without overcooking.

2. Serving Style: In a Dish or Individual Portions?

• Family-style: Serve in a large glass or ceramic baking dish straight from the oven for a rustic, homey feel.
• Individual servings: For a more elegant presentation, portion out candied yams into small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets.
• Buffet setup: Place serving tongs or a large spoon for easy self-service while keeping the dish in a warming tray.

3. Garnishing for a Festive Look

• Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on top for an extra crunch.
• Garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the holiday aroma.
• Drizzle a little maple syrup or honey just before serving for an extra glossy, sweet finish.
• If serving for Christmas, add dried cranberries for a pop of red color and tart contrast.

By serving candied yams with care and presentation in mind, you can make them a standout dish on your holiday table.

Pairing with Other Dishes: Complementary Dishes That Go Well with Candied Yams

Candied yams are a sweet and rich side dish, so pairing them with savory and well-balanced flavors creates a more harmonious meal. Here are the best dishes to serve alongside candied yams:

1. Proteins That Complement Candied Yams

• Roast Turkey – The classic Thanksgiving pairing; the savory, herb-roasted turkey balances the sweetness of candied yams.
• Glazed Ham – The smoky and salty-sweet flavors of a honey or brown sugar-glazed ham go perfectly with the caramelized yams.
• Roast Chicken – A great alternative to turkey, roasted chicken with garlic and rosemary adds a nice contrast to the yams’ sweetness.
• Beef Roast or Prime Rib – If serving for Christmas, a juicy, well-seasoned prime rib or slow-cooked beef roast pairs beautifully with candied yams.

2. Other Side Dishes That Pair Well

• Savory Stuffing – A classic Thanksgiving stuffing with herbs, sausage, or cornbread provides an earthy, hearty contrast.
• Collard Greens or Sautéed Green Beans – Adds a fresh, slightly bitter element to balance the richness.
• Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – A creamy, buttery side that complements the texture of the candied yams.
• Mac and Cheese – Southern-style baked mac and cheese pairs well with candied yams for a comforting, indulgent combo.

3. Bread Options to Serve with Candied Yams

• Cornbread – A slightly sweet, crumbly cornbread enhances the Southern-style meal.
• Dinner Rolls – Soft, buttery rolls are great for soaking up the brown sugar glaze.
• Biscuits – Flaky, buttery biscuits provide a hearty contrast to the yams.

These complementary dishes ensure your candied yams are part of a well-rounded meal, no matter the occasion.

Leftover Ideas: Creative Ways to Use Leftover Candied Yams

If you have leftover candied yams, don’t let them go to waste! There are plenty of delicious ways to repurpose them into new dishes for breakfast, snacks, or even desserts.

1. Candied Yam Pancakes or Waffles

• Mash the leftover candied yams and mix them into pancake or waffle batter for a naturally sweet, spiced breakfast treat.
• Top with maple syrup and pecans for extra flavor.

2. Candied Yam Muffins or Bread

• Use the leftovers to create sweet potato muffins or bread by mixing the yams into a basic batter.
• Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and walnuts for extra warmth and crunch.

3. Candied Yam Pie

• Repurpose your yams into a sweet potato pie-style dessert by blending them with eggs, milk, and spices, then baking in a pie crust.

4. Candied Yam Casserole with Oats

• Layer leftover yams with oats, brown sugar, and butter, then bake for a sweet and crunchy breakfast casserole.

5. Candied Yam Soup

• Blend the yams into a smooth, spiced soup with a little broth, coconut milk, and ginger for a comforting winter dish.

6. Candied Yam Smoothie

• Blend with Greek yogurt, banana, cinnamon, and a splash of almond milk for a nutrient-packed, naturally sweet smoothie.

7. Sweet Potato Hash

• Chop up the yams and sauté with onions, bell peppers, and sausage for a hearty breakfast hash.
• Serve with fried or scrambled eggs for a Southern-style breakfast.

By getting creative with leftovers, you can extend the life of your candied yams and enjoy them in new, delicious ways.

Conclusion: The Perfect Candied Yams for Any Holiday Feast

Candied yams are more than just a side dish—they’re a beloved holiday tradition that brings warmth, sweetness, and nostalgia to the table. Whether you’re making them for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special family gathering, this classic recipe is sure to impress with its tender yams, rich buttery glaze, and perfectly balanced spices.

By following the right techniques—choosing the best yams, balancing flavors, and mastering the cooking process—you can create candied yams that are soft yet firm, caramelized yet not overly sweet. Adding toppings like marshmallows, pecans, or a hint of citrus can elevate the dish even further, making it a star on your holiday menu.

Plus, if you have leftovers, don’t let them go to waste! From pancakes and muffins to soups and breakfast hashes, there are plenty of creative ways to enjoy candied yams beyond the holiday table.

So whether you’re making them for the first time or perfecting your family’s traditional recipe, these tips and tricks will help you serve the best candied yams ever. Give it a try, and watch as this delicious dish becomes a highlight of your holiday feast!

✨ Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts and favorite variations in the comments! Happy cooking! 🎉🍠