Q. If one recites the beracha for lighting Shabbos candles on Yom Tov candles (not when Shabbos falls on yom tov), what should be done?

A. If one remembers immediately (within “toch k’dei dibbur” or the time-space of three words) Yom Tov should be mentioned and it would be considered as having recited the proper brocho. Otherwise, there are different opinions if the brocho on already lit candles can be recited. Mishna Berura (263: 21) quotes two rulings in regards to a woman who wants to light Shabbos candles, but still continue doing melochos before the shkiah. Firstly, Maharam who permits reciting the brocho after the shkiah, on lit candles. Then Mogen Avrohom (ibid.11) who disagrees, questioning how can you say “Lehadlik” when it is already prohibited to light (Pri Megodim). Mishna Berura seems to agree with the Mogen Avrohom.

However, if it still before sunset and it is still permitted to light, some Poiskim permit reciting, arguing that this is the widespread practice, since women light the candles first, then cover their eyes and recite the brocho. (Seder Brochos p. 391, quoting Eliohu Rabbo, ibid. See also Responsa Rabbi Akiva Eiger (2: 13), in regards to Hanukkah lights).

In the case in question, as it is Yom Tov you can light candles after the shkiah. Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit”a opinion is that it is better to light one additional candle before you make the brocho of Lehadlik ner shelYom Tov.

Rabbi A. Bartfeld as revised by Horav Shlomo Miller Shlit”a