Prep the Yams: Peel your yams and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds or cubes. You want them uniform in size so they cook evenly. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir constantly as the butter begins to foam, and after a few minutes, the milk solids will start to brown, emitting a nutty aroma. This is your cue! Once the butter reaches a rich, amber color, remove it from the heat to avoid burning.
Combine Butter, Maple Syrup & Brown Sugar: Add the brown sugar and maple syrup to the brown butter, stirring until fully dissolved. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. At this point, you can taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or add optional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
Coat the Yams: Place the yams in a large mixing bowl and pour the brown butter mixture over them, tossing to coat evenly. Make sure every piece is drenched in that glorious, sweet sauce.
Bake the Yams: Transfer the yams to a greased baking dish, spreading them out in an even layer. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the yams are tender when pierced with a fork.
Final Touch: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes to let the edges caramelize and the sauce thicken. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, sweet, and savory goodness!