Name: Irresistibly Sweet Easy Candied Yams for Your Holiday Table
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cans Canned Yams (Substitution: Fresh sweet potatoes can be used if preferred.); 4 tbsp Butter (Choose salted or unsalted based on preference.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Substitution: Reduce to ⅓ cup for a less sweet option.); 1 tsp Cinnamon (Adjust to taste for a more personalized flavor.); 0.25 tsp Nutmeg (Optional but highly recommended for depth of flavor.); 1 pinch Salt (Balances the sweetness.); 1 cup Miniature Marshmallows (Substitution: Omit marshmallows for traditional candied yams.)

There’s something magical about the sweet aroma of Southern-style Candied Yams wafting through the kitchen on a cozy holiday evening. As I reminisce about family gatherings, these Easy Candied Yams with Marshmallows never fail to evoke warm memories, filled with laughter and comfort food. This dish not only captures that nostalgic essence but also comes together swiftly with either canned or fresh yams, making it a breeze to whip up. It’s the perfect side dish to crown your Thanksgiving feast or to brighten up any festive table—truly a crowd-pleaser! Plus, you can easily customize it to fit dietary needs, whether you’re vegan or just looking to cut down on sugar. What delightful twists will you add to your own version?

Why are these Easy Candied Yams a must-try?

Nostalgic Flavor: Relish the warm, sweet taste that brings back cherished holiday memories.

Quick Preparation: This recipe requires minimal time in the kitchen, letting you enjoy more moments with loved ones.

Versatile Options: Easily switch between canned or fresh yams and choose to add or omit marshmallows for a personal touch.

Crowd Favorite: Perfectly complements any holiday table, whether alongside turkey or ham.

Dietary Friendly: With minimal adjustments, it can cater to vegan diets and can be lightened with reduced sugar.

Enhance your meal with these easy-to-make yams, and for a delightful dessert afterward, check out this Mini Cheesecake Sweet recipe!

Easy Candied Yams Ingredients

For the Yams
• Canned Yams – These provide a sweet, soft texture ideal for this easy candied yams recipe. Substitution: Fresh sweet potatoes can be used if you prefer a from-scratch preparation.
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor; choose salted or unsalted based on your preference.
• Brown Sugar – Provides a deep sweetness to balance the dish. Substitution: Reduce to ⅓ cup for a less sweet option.
• Cinnamon – Adds a warm, nostalgic flavor perfect for holiday gatherings. Note: Adjust to taste for a more personalized flavor.
• Nutmeg – Enhances sweetness with a hint of spice; it’s optional, but highly recommended for depth of flavor.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness; just a pinch is perfect.

For the Topping
• Miniature Marshmallows – Create a gooey, delectable topping that melts beautifully. Substitution: For traditional candied yams, simply omit marshmallows.

Customize your dish with these ingredients, and savor the delightful taste of easy candied yams that will take you back to holiday memories!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Candied Yams

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for achieving the right balance of gooey sweetness and caramelization in your Easy Candied Yams. Allow the oven to fully heat up while preparing your ingredients, ensuring a perfect bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Yams
Drain the canned yams thoroughly and arrange them in the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish. This layering is essential to allow the yams to absorb all the delicious flavors as they bake. Spread them evenly to ensure even cooking, creating a lovely base for your sweet topping.

Step 3: Add Butter
Slice the butter into small pieces and distribute them evenly over the yams. As the butter melts, it will combine with the yams, providing a rich and creamy texture. Make sure to cover the yams well, as this will help enhance their sweetness during baking.

Step 4: Mix the Sugar Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. This fragrant mixture will create a beautiful crust over your yams. Sprinkle it evenly over the buttered yams, allowing the flavors to meld as the yams bake.

Step 5: Bake the Yams
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. You’ll start to see the butter bubbling and the sugar beginning to caramelize. This initial baking is crucial for developing that gooey texture that makes Easy Candied Yams so delightful.

Step 6: Add Marshmallows
After 10 minutes, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Now it’s time to sprinkle the miniature marshmallows on top of the yams. Distribute them evenly, covering the surface for that perfect gooey topping.

Step 7: Final Bake
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on the marshmallows—they’re done when they are golden brown and slightly puffed up. This final step transforms your Easy Candied Yams into a decadent treat with a delightful contrast of textures.

Easy Candied Yams Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play with this recipe, adding your personal flair for a truly unique dish.

Fresh Yams: Use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned for a more homemade flavor. Simply peel and cube them, then follow the same baking instructions.
With Pecans: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the yams before adding marshmallows for a nutty crunch that elevates the texture beautifully. The buttery pecans will create a contrast with the marshmallows, making each bite a delight.
Vegan: Substitute butter with a vegan alternative to make this dish suitable for plant-based diets. Many excellent vegan butters will keep the richness intact.
Citrus Twist: Add 1-2 tablespoons of orange juice or zest for a refreshing brightness that complements the sweet yams wonderfully. This zingy note adds a fresh layer of flavor, making it stand out.
Pineapple Addition: Mix in ½ cup of chopped pineapple to incorporate a burst of tropical flavor and added sweetness. The acidity of the pineapple balances the richness, creating a well-rounded dish.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle some maple syrup instead of using full brown sugar for a unique twist on sweetness. This natural sweetener brings its own complex flavor profile while enhancing the overall theme.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising heat that’ll tickle your taste buds. This unexpected element pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the yams.
Coconut Topping: For a tropical take, substitute marshmallows with shredded coconut and toast it lightly for an aromatic topping that brings a delightful chewiness.

These variations and substitutions allow you to tailor the Easy Candied Yams to your taste preferences and dietary needs. And if you’re in the mood for another comforting dish, why not check out this Easy Vegetable Soup to pair alongside your festive spread?

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Candied Yams are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy holiday gatherings! You can prepare the yams and the sugar mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply drain and layer the canned yams in your baking dish, then add the butter followed by the sugar mixture on top. Cover it well with plastic wrap to prevent drying out in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven and bake for 10 minutes before topping with marshmallows for that delightful gooey finish. This way, you’ll have a warm, comforting dish ready to enjoy with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Southern-Style Candied Yams

Enhance your holiday meal with delightful pairings that will make your taste buds dance.

Roasted Turkey: Juicy turkey complements the sweet yams beautifully, offering a savory contrast that’s truly festive. The rich flavors create a harmonious balance on your plate.
Honey-Glazed Ham: The salty-sweet glaze on ham pairs perfectly with the sugary yams, creating a blissful explosion of taste that everyone will rave about.
Collard Greens: Fresh, slightly bitter collard greens provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet profile of the yams, rounding out your meal with a nutritious touch.
Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: The comforting, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the yams, making each bite a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Cornbread: Soft, buttery cornbread not only enhances your meal with its savory flavor, but it also serves as a perfect vessel for enjoying the gooey sweetness of the yams.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the rich sweetness, providing a juicy burst of flavor that elevates the entire holiday feast.
Sweet Tea: A classic Southern pairing, sweet tea’s refreshing sweetness will complement the yams while keeping you hydrated during your indulgent meal.
Apple Pie: Finish off with this timeless dessert; the warm spices and sweetness of apple pie make for a comforting close to your holiday gathering.

Take your time to explore these mouthwatering combinations and create a memorable feast everyone will love!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Candied Yams

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for optimal taste and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the yams in a tightly sealed freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated thoroughly, about 20-25 minutes. Avoid microwaving to preserve the dish’s creamy texture.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the Easy Candied Yams a day in advance, storing them in the fridge without marshmallows, and add the topping just before baking.

Expert Tips for Easy Candied Yams

Even Thickness: Ensure yams are cut to a uniform thickness for consistent cooking throughout your Easy Candied Yams. This prevents some being undercooked while others may burn.
Sweetness Control: For a smoother sweetness, mix the drained yams with the brown sugar mixture before adding marshmallows. This guarantees an even distribution of flavor.
Make Ahead: This dish is perfect to prepare a day in advance, just store it in the fridge. Add the marshmallows right before baking for that freshly melted topping.
Vegan Substitute: Swapping butter for a vegan alternative ensures these Easy Candied Yams are friendly for guests with dietary restrictions, so everyone can enjoy!
Batch Cooking: If feeding a crowd, easily double the recipe. Just ensure you use a larger baking dish to accommodate the extra ingredients.

Easy Candied Yams Recipe FAQs

What type of yams should I use?
I highly recommend using canned yams for quick preparation since they have a sweet, soft texture that works perfectly for this recipe. However, if you prefer a more traditional approach, fresh sweet potatoes can be an excellent substitute. Just remember to peel and cook them until tender before following the rest of this recipe.

How should I store leftover Easy Candied Yams?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method keeps them delicious and maintains their creamy texture.

Can I freeze Easy Candied Yams?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the yams in a tightly sealed freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. It’s best to omit the marshmallows before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven. You may need to bake them a bit longer, around 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C), to ensure they’re heated through.

What if my yams come out too sweet?
No worries! If you find the sweetness overwhelming, here’s a tip: try adding a pinch of salt to balance the flavors or sprinkle some lemon juice over the yams before baking to add acidity. Reducing the amount of brown sugar in the recipe also helps customize the sweetness to your taste.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This Easy Candied Yams recipe can easily be adapted for different dietary needs. For a vegan version, substitute butter with a vegan alternative like coconut oil or plant-based margarine. Additionally, if you have guests who are sensitive to sugar, you can reduce the brown sugar to ⅓ cup without compromising the delicious flavor.

Can I prepare these yams ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the Easy Candied Yams a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up until adding the marshmallows, cover the dish, and store it in the fridge. On the day you plan to serve, simply add the marshmallows and bake as directed. This is a fantastic way to save time on busy holiday mornings!