Easy Candied Yams Recipe
Introduction
Easy Candied Yams are a classic side dish that brings warmth and sweetness to any meal. This simple recipe combines tender yams with butter, brown sugar, spices, and toasted marshmallows for a comforting treat the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 29 oz canned yams (such as Bruce’s)
- 1/4 cup butter (salted)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375° F. Drain the canned yams and place them evenly in the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish. Slice the butter into 8 pieces, about 1/2 tablespoon each, and distribute the slices over the yams.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the yams and butter. Bake uncovered for 10 minutes.
- Step 3: Remove the dish from the oven and spread the miniature marshmallows evenly on top. Return to the oven and bake for another 8–10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are melted and golden to your liking.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, try using unsalted butter and add a pinch more salt to balance sweetness.
- Add a splash of orange juice or vanilla extract to the brown sugar mixture for a bright twist.
- Use fresh yams if preferred; peel, boil until tender, then proceed with the recipe.
- For a toasted marshmallow top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end—watch carefully to avoid burning.
Storage
Store leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Marshmallows may become a bit chewy when reheated, so you can add fresh marshmallows on top before warming if desired.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh yams instead of canned?
Yes, fresh yams can be used. Peel and cut them into chunks, boil until tender, then place in the baking dish to continue with the recipe.
What can I substitute for marshmallows?
If you prefer to skip marshmallows, you can sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top after baking for added texture and flavor.
Print
Easy Candied Yams Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Candied Yams recipe is a classic, comforting side dish perfect for holiday dinners or anytime you crave a sweet and buttery treat. Using canned yams makes preparation quick and effortless, while a cinnamon and nutmeg spiced brown sugar glaze combined with melty miniature marshmallows on top adds rich flavor and a beautiful golden finish.
Ingredients
Yams
- 29 oz canned yams (preferably Bruce’s)
Glaze & Topping
- 1/4 cup butter (salted preferred)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Yams: Preheat your oven to 375° F. Drain the canned yams thoroughly and arrange them in the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Add Butter and Brown Sugar Mixture: Slice the butter into eight halves of a tablespoon each and evenly distribute these slices over the yams. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the yams and butter slices.
- Bake Before Adding Marshmallows: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 10 minutes. This allows the butter to melt and the sugar mixture to soak into the yams.
- Add Marshmallows and Finish Baking: After the initial bake, carefully remove the dish and sprinkle the miniature marshmallows evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the marshmallows are melted, puffed, and browned to your liking.
- Serve Warm: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. The candied yams are best enjoyed warm as a sweet side dish.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the canned yams well to prevent excess liquid in the dish.
- You can adjust the amount of marshmallows to your preference.
- For a nuttier flavor, consider adding chopped pecans on top before baking with the marshmallows.
- Use salted butter to balance the sweetness, or unsalted if preferred and add a pinch more salt accordingly.
- To keep the marshmallows from burning, watch closely during the last few minutes of baking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: candied yams, sweet potatoes, holiday side dish, baked yams, marshmallows, easy yams recipe
