Best-Ever Candied Yams

Preheat oven to 400°. Butter a medium baking dish.  In a medium sauce pan over medium heat, combine sugar, orange juice, butter, cinnamon stick, bourbon if using, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to combine and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until it has thickened slightly, about 10 minutes. When reduced, remove and discard cinnamon stick. Meanwhile, prep potatoes: Peel potatoes and slice into 1/2" rounds, then layer in prepared baking dish. Pour thickened syrup over potatoes and cover dish with aluminum foil.  Bake 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake about 50 minutes to 1 hour more, basting with sauce every 15 minutes.  Let cool slightly before serving.