Candied Yams with Marshmallows Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, comforting classic that’s bursting with sweet, buttery flavors, you have to try this Candied Yams with Marshmallows Recipe. It’s a nostalgic delight that combines the natural sweetness of yams with the gooey charm of toasted marshmallows, creating a dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something irresistibly delicious, this recipe promises to bring smiles and satisfied sighs all around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Candied Yams with Marshmallows Recipe comes from a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that work together beautifully. Each one plays a vital role in balancing texture, sweetness, and that luscious finish.

• 80 ounces canned yams: These ready-to-use yams save time and soften perfectly while soaking in all the flavors.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that irresistible syrupy glaze that coats the yams.
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the natural yam flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: A warm spice that gives a subtly cozy kick without overpowering the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweetness and balances the overall taste perfectly.
• 5 cups miniature marshmallows: The star topping that melts into a golden, fluffy cloud of sweetness giving the dish its signature finish.

How to Make Candied Yams with Marshmallows Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Yams

Start by draining the canned yams thoroughly to avoid an overly watery dish. Place the yams gently into your baking dish, spreading them out evenly for uniform cooking. This base will soak up all the buttery, sugary goodness added in the next steps.

Step 2: Combine the Butter and Sugar

Scatter the sliced unsalted butter over the yams, then sprinkle the light brown sugar evenly on top. The butter melts as it bakes, creating a rich syrup, while the brown sugar caramelizes into sweet pockets of flavor throughout the dish.

Step 3: Add Cinnamon and Salt

Sprinkle the cinnamon and salt over the surface next. These simple seasonings elevate the dish, making every bite warming and perfectly balanced without overshadowing the natural yam sweetness.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Place your dish in a preheated oven and bake until the yams are tender and the syrup is bubbly around the edges. This step helps all the flavors meld together beautifully for a delicious foundation before the best part—the marshmallows.

Step 5: Top with Marshmallows

Scatter the five cups of miniature marshmallows generously over the yams. Return the dish to the oven and bake just until the marshmallows are golden brown and toasted on top, creating that iconic gooey, slightly crisp finish.

How to Serve Candied Yams with Marshmallows Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped pecans or a dusting of additional cinnamon after baking to add texture and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet, soft yams and marshmallows.

Side Dishes

This dish shines alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a simple roasted chicken. Its sweetness harmonizes beautifully with savory mains, creating a well-rounded, comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, serve your candied yams in individual ramekins topped with marshmallows for personal servings that look delightful. Or layer your yams in a clear casserole dish so everyone can admire the golden marshmallow topping and syrupy layers before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Candied Yams with Marshmallows Recipe can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it just as delicious (if not more) the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep this sweet treat longer, freeze the cooled yams without the marshmallow topping in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months, then add fresh marshmallows and bake before serving.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. If your marshmallows have deflated or hardened, add a fresh layer on top and toast briefly to restore their gooey perfection.

FAQs

Can I use fresh yams instead of canned?

You absolutely can! Just be sure to peel, slice, and pre-cook them until tender before starting the recipe. Canned yams offer convenience, but fresh yams bring their own vibrant flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have miniature marshmallows?

Regular marshmallows chopped into smaller pieces work well. Mini marshmallows melt more evenly and create that classic puffy top, but regular ones can be a good substitute in a pinch.

Is this dish very sweet?

This Candied Yams with Marshmallows Recipe balances sweetness with warmth from spices and richness from butter, so it’s perfectly sweet but never cloying. You can adjust the sugar to your taste if you prefer.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use vegan marshmallows to enjoy this dish vegan-style without missing out on the flavors and textures that make it special.

How long does it take to bake?

The entire baking process typically takes about 25-30 minutes, including the final marshmallow toasting. Keep a close eye on the marshmallows toward the end to avoid burning.

Final Thoughts

This Candied Yams with Marshmallows Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, sweetness, and a little nostalgia to your table. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or indulging yourself, it’s one of those dishes that feels like an instant celebration. Give it a try—you just might find a new favorite classic that stays in your repertoire for years to come.

Print