There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about candied yams topped with gooey marshmallows—like a warm hug from your childhood kitchen. I stumbled upon this classic side dish when craving something comforting but a little special for family dinner. The sweet softness of tender yams layered with buttery syrup and that golden, toasted marshmallow crown creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re breaking away from fast food monotony or aiming to wow guests at your next holiday meal, these candied yams transform humble ingredients into a decadent treat that’s surprisingly simple to make. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to comfort dish all year round!
Why choose Candied Yams with Marshmallows?
Nostalgic Comfort: This recipe brings back cozy memories with every bite. Effortless Elegance: Simple ingredients come together quickly for a rich, homemade side. Perfect Texture: Soft, tender yams contrast beautifully with golden, toasted marshmallows. Versatile Appeal: Ideal for holidays, family dinners, or whenever you crave a comforting treat. Crowd-Pleaser: Sweet, buttery flavors win over even picky eaters with ease.
Candied Yams with Marshmallows Ingredients
For the Yams
- Fresh yams – choose firm, medium-sized yams for tender, naturally sweet results.
- Unsalted butter – adds rich creaminess, helping the syrup coat each yam slice perfectly.
- Brown sugar – use dark brown sugar for deeper molasses flavor in your candied yams.
- Ground cinnamon – a warm spice that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Ground nutmeg – just a pinch brings cozy, fragrant depth to the dish.
- Pure vanilla extract – enhances all the flavors with a subtle, aromatic touch.
- Salt – balances sweetness and intensifies yam’s natural flavor.
For the Topping
- Mini marshmallows – the signature gooey, golden topping that makes Candied Yams with Marshmallows unforgettable.
- Brown sugar (optional) – sprinkle a little extra on top for a caramelized finish as marshmallows toast.
Pro tip: When making Candied Yams with Marshmallows, layering is key—coat yams evenly with the buttery sugar syrup before adding that fluffy marshmallow crown for the perfect comforting bite.
How to Make Candied Yams with Marshmallows
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F with the rack in the center, and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray for easy cleanup.
- Peel and slice: Peel medium yams, then cut into 1/2-inch rounds for even cooking. Aim for uniform size to ensure tender, soft centers and caramelized edges.
For the Yams:
- Make syrup: Melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and bubbling.
- Coat yams: Arrange yam slices in the greased dish, pour syrup evenly over them, tossing gently to cover each piece in glossy, amber-hued sauce before baking.
- Bake yams: Place dish in the oven and bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until yams are tender when pierced and sauce is bubbling at the edges.
For the Topping:
- Add marshmallows: Scatter mini marshmallows evenly over hot yams, pressing down slightly so they nestle in the syrup for a gooey, golden finish.
- Toast topping: Switch oven to broil, then broil marshmallows 2–3 minutes—watch closely until they’re puffed and golden brown.
- Rest and serve: Let the dish rest 5 minutes before serving so syrup thickens slightly; garnish with extra cinnamon if desired.
Optional: Sprinkle chopped pecans for a crunchy contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Candied Yams with Marshmallows?
These delightful yams are not only a festive treat but also the perfect sidekick for your next family feast.
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Roast Turkey: The savory, herby flavors of turkey perfectly balance the sweetness of the yams, creating a harmonious meal.
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Honey Glazed Ham: Each bite of sweet ham paired with luscious, sugary yams brings comfort and joy, reminiscent of holiday dinners.
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Green Bean Almondine: This crisp, green side dish provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, melty yams, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and savory, these potatoes offer a delightful texture that pairs beautifully with the soft, sweet yams.
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Cornbread Muffins: The slight sweetness and texture of cornbread complement candied yams wonderfully, making for a comforting plate.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the sweet flavors of the yams, offering a delicious and balanced flavor profile.
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Sparkling Cider: Elevate your meal with a glass of bubbly cider, its effervescence refreshing your palate between bites of rich, candied yams.
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Chocolate Pie: For dessert, the creamy richness of chocolate pie contrasts delightfully with the sweet, gooey yams, ensuring a perfectly indulgent ending.
Tips for the Best Candied Yams with Marshmallows
- Choose firm yams: Select medium, firm yams to ensure tender slices that hold their shape and soak up the syrup perfectly.
- Even slicing matters: Cut yams into uniform 1/2-inch rounds so they cook evenly and develop that melt-in-your-mouth texture without mushiness.
- Layer syrup thoroughly: Pour and toss the brown sugar syrup evenly, coating every yam slice to maximize flavor in every bite of your candied yams with marshmallows.
- Watch marshmallows carefully: Broil marshmallows on high heat but keep a close eye to prevent burning—2 to 3 minutes is usually just right for a golden top.
- Rest before serving: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes after broiling to thicken the syrup, giving you luscious, less runny candied yams every time.
How to Store and Freeze Candied Yams with Marshmallows
Fridge: Store leftover candied yams in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze yams without the topping in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, add mini marshmallows to the top and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden after warming the yams in the oven. Enjoy the sweet, nostalgic flavors all over again!
Make Ahead Options
These Candied Yams with Marshmallows are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the yams and make the buttery syrup up to 24 hours in advance; simply peel and slice the yams, then layer them in a greased baking dish covered in the syrup. To maintain their quality, refrigerate the assembled dish, ensuring it’s tightly covered to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, then scatter the marshmallows on top and broil for that golden finish. This way, you can wow your guests or satisfy your cravings with minimal effort, making your weeknight dinners and gatherings stress-free!
Candied Yams with Marshmallows Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your candied yams into a whole new realm of flavor and texture!
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Maple Syrup: Swap brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a more caramelized, earthy sweetness that complements the yams beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the syrup for a surprising yet warm heat that balances the sweetness.
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Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped pecans or walnuts before broiling marshmallows; this adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor under the gooey layer.
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Coconut Bliss: Sprinkle shredded coconut over marshmallows before broiling; the coconut toasts up nicely, offering a tropical twist to your traditional dish.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in diced apples or pears for a fruity burst. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the yams and adds a delightful texture contrast.
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Herbaceous Twist: A dash of fresh rosemary or thyme can lend aromatic complexity, transforming your candied yams into a truly gourmet side.
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Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top after broiling for a decadent finish that creates a luxurious flavor profile.
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Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of brown sugar to create a delicious vegan-friendly version of this classic dish.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to discover your perfect combination!
Easy Candied Yams with Marshmallows Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best yams for candied yams with marshmallows?
Choose medium-sized yams that are firm to the touch without any dark spots or soft areas. Firm yams hold their shape better when baked and soak up the syrup beautifully for that perfect tender texture.
Can I store leftover candied yams with marshmallows, and how long will they stay fresh?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. To keep the marshmallows fresh and gooey, it’s best to add them just before reheating. You can gently warm the yams in the oven and then broil a fresh marshmallow topping to revive that golden, toasted finish.
Is it possible to freeze candied yams with marshmallows?
Yes! I recommend freezing the yams without the marshmallows to avoid texture changes. Place the cooled yams in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat in the oven, then add fresh mini marshmallows on top and broil until golden and melty.
What if my yams turn out mushy or too firm—how can I fix that next time?
If they’re mushy, chances are the slices were too thin or overcooked. Try slicing them into uniform 1/2-inch rounds and check for tenderness at the 25-minute mark. For yams that remain firm, bake a bit longer but watch carefully to avoid drying out. The syrup bath helps keep them moist, so make sure to coat each slice evenly.
Are candied yams with marshmallows safe for pets or people with allergies?
This dish isn’t suitable for pets, especially dogs, due to marshmallows and added sugar. For guests with allergies, watch for cinnamon or nutmeg sensitivities. If needed, omit spices and replace marshmallows with allergen-friendly toppings like toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for a similar texture and cozy flavor.
Easy Candied Yams with Marshmallows: The Ultimate Comfort Side
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F with the rack in the center, and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Peel medium yams, then cut into 1/2-inch rounds for even cooking.
- Melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and bubbling.
- Arrange yam slices in the greased dish, pour syrup evenly over them, tossing gently to cover each piece.
- Place dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until yams are tender and sauce is bubbling.
- Scatter mini marshmallows evenly over hot yams, pressing down slightly.
- Switch oven to broil, and broil marshmallows for 2–3 minutes until they’re golden brown.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
