As the aroma of baking yams fills the air, I’m transported back to cherished family gatherings filled with laughter and love. This recipe for Easy Candied Yams captures all those warm memories, transforming simple ingredients into a heartfelt side dish that shines on any holiday table. Whether you choose canned or fresh yams, this quick recipe is a breeze to whip up and comes with the irresistible perk of pleasing crowds, making it perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. Plus, with options for marshmallows or crunchy pecans, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Curious to elevate your traditional side? Let’s get cooking!

Why Are These Yams So Irresistibly Sweet?

Sweet Nostalgia: Every bite of these Easy Candied Yams is a journey back to cozy family gatherings, bursting with familiar flavors.
Quick Prep: This hassle-free recipe is perfect for any home cook, using only a handful of simple ingredients.
Customizable Goodness: Whether you prefer a fluffy marshmallow topping or a crunchy pecan sprinkle, the choice is yours!
Versatile Appeal: Great alongside any holiday meal or a comforting weeknight dinner, these yams are sure to please.
Feeling adventurous? Consider pairing with a delicious Chef Salad to create a delightful spread. It’s the perfect addition to your festive table!

Easy Candied Yams Ingredients

For the Yams
• Canned Yams – Ideal for a quick option; if you prefer freshness, use peeled and sliced fresh yams into ⅛-¼” thick rounds.
• Butter – Adds richness and a savory element; for vegan versions, swap for vegan butter for the same creamy satisfaction.

For the Sweet Mixture
• Brown Sugar – Brings sweetness and caramelization; consider reducing to ⅓ cup for a less sweet version that still shines in your Easy Candied Yams.
• Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and enhances flavor; feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg for added depth.
• Nutmeg – Complements the sweetness and brings an aromatic touch; this is optional and adjustable to your taste.
• Salt – Balances out the sweetness perfectly; use sparingly if you’re aiming for a milder flavor.

For the Topping
• Miniature Marshmallows – Create a gooey, sweet topping that everyone loves; skip if you want a more traditional dish or replace with chopped pecans for a delightful crunch.

Dive into this cherished recipe and create your own Easy Candied Yams that will surely warm hearts and gather friends around your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Candied Yams

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you drain the canned yams, ensuring they’re well-released from their syrup. If using fresh yams, peel and slice them into ⅛-¼” thick rounds for even cooking. Place the yams in an 8×8-inch baking dish, creating a single layer to allow for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 2: Add Butter
Slice the butter into thin pats and layer them evenly over the yams. The combination of melting butter and sweet yams will create a beautiful, rich base for your Easy Candied Yams. As the butter begins to melt, it will infuse the yams with comforting richness and flavor, making your dish even more delightful.

Step 3: Make the Sweet Mixture
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. This aromatic blend will add sweetness and warmth to your yams. Once combined, sprinkle the mixture evenly over the yams and pats of butter, ensuring every piece is coated for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Yams
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the yams for 10 minutes. This initial baking time helps to soften the yams while melded with the buttery, sweet mixture. You’ll start to notice that delightful aroma filling your kitchen, hinting at the cozy dish that’s about to come.

Step 5: Top with Marshmallows
After the initial baking, take your yams out and generously top them with miniature marshmallows. Spread them evenly to cover the surface for that signature gooey topping. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, keeping an eye out for the marshmallows to melt and turn a beautiful golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Easy Candied Yams are beautifully golden and bubbling, carefully remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. The combination of tender yams and sweet marshmallow topping makes for a show-stopping side dish that’s sure to bring smiles around your dinner table.

What to Serve with Easy Candied Yams?

As the sweet fragrance of candied yams wafts through your kitchen, consider pairing them with these delightful accompaniments for a well-rounded meal.

Herb-Roasted Turkey: This classic holiday dish brings a savory element that beautifully balances the sweetness of your yams, making each bite a joy.
Creamy Green Bean Casserole: With its rich, velvety sauce and crispy topping, this will provide a comforting contrast to the tender, sweet yams.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and fluffy, these mashed potatoes soak up gravy and enhance the meal’s overall heartiness. Serve them alongside for a lovely textural experience.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberries cuts through the richness of the yams, creating a flavorful dynamic that brightens your plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These veggies add a delightful crunch and earthiness to balance the sweetness, making your dinner both vibrant and nutritious.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness echoes that of the candied yams, creating a harmonious, colorful medley that’s irresistible on any holiday table.
Homemade Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for sopping up those sweet, sticky yams and providing a comforting bread component.
Sparkling Apple Cider: This bubbly drink complements the dish wonderfully, refreshing your palate between bites while echoing the sweet flavors of the meal.
Pumpkin Pie: For a sweet finish, a slice of classic pumpkin pie delivers cozy spices, creating a comforting dessert that echoes the warmth of your Easy Candied Yams.
Pecan Pie: Rich, buttery, and nutty, this southern classic pairs beautifully, offering a crunch that mirrors the pecan topping option for your yams.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Candied Yams are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy holiday season! You can prepare the yams and layer them with butter (up to 24 hours in advance), then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Additionally, the sweet brown sugar mixture can be mixed and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining its delicious flavor. When it’s time to cook, simply assemble by sprinkling the sweet mixture over the yams and bake for the initial 10 minutes. Afterward, add the marshmallows and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes until golden brown. With these prep-ahead tips, your Easy Candied Yams will be just as delightful and ready to impress!

Tips for the Best Easy Candied Yams

• Choose Fresh or Canned: Select fresh yams for that classic taste or go with canned for a quick, convenient option—both can yield delicious Easy Candied Yams.

• Mash for Creaminess: For a smoother texture, mash the yams slightly before adding the butter and sweet mixture, resulting in a delightful experience.

• Golden Marshmallow Top: Watch closely when baking; marshmallows can toast quickly. Take them out when golden brown for a great texture and taste.

• Flavor Enhancements: Want to spice it up? Add a splash of orange juice or a pinch of ground ginger to your sweet mixture for extra flavor depth.

• Mixing Toppings: For a delightful crunch, alternate toppings! Use half marshmallows and half pecans to create a perfect balance between gooey and crunchy.

• Storing Wisely: If you have leftovers of your Easy Candied Yams, store them in an airtight container; they’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days.

Storage Tips for Easy Candied Yams

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Easy Candied Yams in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or a small pat of butter to keep the yams moist. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

Avoid Room Temperature: To prevent spoilage, do not leave cooked yams at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Easy Candied Yams Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and personalize your Easy Candied Yams with these exciting variations!

Vegan Options: Substitute butter with vegan butter for a delicious plant-based dish that still delivers on flavor.
Citrusy Zing: Add 1-2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice to the yams for a bright and refreshing citrus twist. It beautifully complements the natural sweetness.
Pineapple Sweetness: Mix in ½ cup of chopped pineapple to infuse a tropical flair and a juicy burst of flavor that elevates your dish to new heights.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle 1 cup of chopped pecans over the yams before adding the marshmallows for added texture and nutty goodness.
Maple Twist: Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup over the top while reducing the brown sugar slightly. It’s a fantastic way to introduce a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
Savory Spice: For a deeper flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger along with the cinnamon—a delightful surprise for your taste buds.
Marshmallow-Free: Omit the marshmallows and instead, top your yams with a crunchy oatmeal crumble for a unique texture that’s just as satisfying.

Feeling reminded of cozy gatherings? Serve alongside the comforting flavors of Caramelized Banana Fig oatmeal for a delicious and memorable meal!

Easy Candied Yams Recipe FAQs

What type of yams should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can opt for either canned yams for convenience or fresh yams for a more authentic flavor. If using fresh yams, make sure to peel and slice them into ⅛-¼” thick rounds for even cooking. The sweetness of the yams will elevate the dish, so choose yams that are firm and free from dark spots.

How should I store leftover Easy Candied Yams?
After enjoying your delicious Easy Candied Yams, store whatever’s left in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure they’re cooled completely before sealing the container to maintain freshness. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to savor them again!

Can I freeze Easy Candied Yams, and what’s the best way to do so?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze your Easy Candied Yams for up to 2 months. To do this, allow the yams to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date for easy tracking, and remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. When reheating, add a splash of water or a pat of butter to keep them nice and moist.

What can I do if my marshmallows are not browning while baking?
If you find that your marshmallows aren’t browning to that lovely golden hue, it could be that your oven temperature is too low or they’re hidden under too much topping. Make sure to preheat your oven properly. If they’re not browning after the suggested baking time, you can switch to broil mode for a minute or two—just keep a watchful eye to prevent burning.

Can I make Easy Candied Yams vegan?
Absolutely! To create a vegan version of Easy Candied Yams, simply substitute regular butter with vegan butter. The sweetness from the brown sugar and the yummy toppings will ensure that even those following a plant-based lifestyle will thoroughly enjoy this dish. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!

Are there any dietary concerns I should keep in mind?
Yes, definitely worth mentioning! If you or someone else has allergies, be mindful of using nut-free toppings if you’re opting for pecans. Additionally, for those watching their sugar intake, consider reducing the brown sugar to ⅓ cup, as well as experimenting with sugar alternatives. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure safety for sensitive diets.