Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick rounds or wedges. Try to keep the pieces roughly the same size for even cooking.
Step 3: Place the cut sweet potatoes into the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer if possible.
Step 4: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, water (or orange juice), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
Step 5: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugars are completely dissolved and the mixture comes to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Pour the warm glaze evenly over the sweet potatoes in the baking dish, ensuring all pieces are coated.
Step 7: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
Step 8: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the glaze has thickened and caramelized. You can broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra caramelization, watching carefully.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and let the candied yams rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. The glaze will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
Step 10: Serve warm and enjoy this delicious candied yams recipe!