Candied yams are a delightful side dish that perfectly balances sweetness and comfort. This classic recipe is especially popular during holiday gatherings and special occasions, bringing a beautiful presentation and warm flavors that elevate any meal. The tender yams, coated in a gooey mixture of brown sugar and butter, topped with gooey marshmallows, create a dish that’s simply irresistible.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 250
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fat: 3g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 38g
Sodium: 85mg

Why Make This Candied Yams

Candied yams make for a stunning addition to your dinner table. The combination of caramelized sugar and buttery yams creates a rich, sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also visually appealing, with their vibrant orange color and fluffy marshmallow topping. Plus, this recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner, candied yams are sure to bring smiles all around.

How to Make Candied Yams

Creating mouthwatering candied yams is simpler than you might think. With just a few key ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time. The key lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures, which come together beautifully through a few straightforward cooking steps.

Ingredients:

Yams
Brown sugar
Butter
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Vanilla extract
Marshmallows

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and slice the yams into even rounds to ensure they cook uniformly.
Step 2: Mixing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced yams with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Mix well to ensure each piece is coated in the sweet mixture.
Step 3: Cooking

Pour the mixture into a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Finishing

Remove the foil, stir the yams to coat them in the syrup, and add marshmallows on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the marshmallows turn a beautiful golden hue. Serve warm.

How to Serve Candied Yams

Candied yams shine as a side dish. Serve them alongside roasted turkey, ham, or any festive main dish. You can also place them in a serving dish and allow guests to help themselves. For a fun twist, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.

How to Store Candied Yams

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave them in short bursts. You may want to add a little extra butter to restore their luscious texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Candied Yams

Choose firm yams that are free of blemishes for the best results.
For added depth of flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
If you enjoy a bit of zest, a touch of orange juice or zest can complement the sweetness beautifully.
Experiment with different toppings; crushed graham crackers can provide a delightful crunch.
Keep an eye on the marshmallows towards the end of baking to avoid burning.

Delicious Variations

Maple Candied Yams: Substitute brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a wonderfully different flavor.
Spiced Candied Yams: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness.
Nutty Candied Yams: Mix in chopped pecans or almonds for a nutty flavor and added texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of yams? Yes, sweet potatoes are a great substitute and will provide a similar sweet flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have marshmallows? You can omit them or replace them with a drizzle of caramel sauce or toasted nuts.
Can I make candied yams ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead, just cover and refrigerate before baking. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.
What other spices can I use? Besides cinnamon and nutmeg, consider adding ginger or allspice for a unique twist.
Are candied yams gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

Candied yams are a heartwarming holiday classic that’s easy to make and even easier to love. With their sweet, buttery flavor and fluffy marshmallow topping, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with a few variations, this dish is a wonderful addition to your family meals. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the comforting aroma of candied yams filling your kitchen!

Candied Yams

Author: mia-harper
Total Time: 60
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Candied yams are a delightful side dish that perfectly balances sweetness and comfort, popular during holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Yams
Brown sugar
Butter
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Vanilla extract
Marshmallows

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and slice the yams into even rounds.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced yams with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil, stir the yams, and add marshmallows on top. Return to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the marshmallows are golden.

Notes

Choose firm yams for the best results. Consider using dark brown sugar for added depth of flavor.

Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 45
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 38g
Sodium: 85mg
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg