As the aroma of baked sweet potatoes swirls through my kitchen, I can’t help but smile at the memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and love. These Brown Sugar Candied Yams with Marshmallows have long been a staple in my home, effortlessly transforming any holiday dinner into a celebration. With just a handful of ingredients, this easy recipe not only pleases the palate but also invites creativity, allowing you to choose between fresh or canned sweet potatoes. The delightful caramel glaze combined with the light, fluffy marshmallows adds a comforting touch that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for gatherings where everyone can indulge in this sweet side dish. Curious about how to master this classic? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Brown Sugar Candied Yams a Must-Try?
Irresistible Sweetness: The combination of brown sugar and sweet, tender yams creates a dessert-like delight that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Flexible Options: Easily swap fresh sweet potatoes with canned versions to save time without sacrificing flavor.
Quick Prep: With a short cooking time, these yams fit perfectly into busy holiday schedules—just like Spinach Artichoke Dip that’s ready in no time!
Family Favorite: Their sweet taste and fluffy marshmallow topping make them a beloved side for all ages, ensuring you’ll leave your guests smiling.
Perfect Pairing: These yams complement your holiday turkey or ham beautifully, enhancing your festive meal with a touch of sweetness.
Easy Cleanup: Minimal ingredients mean you’ll spend less time fussing in the kitchen and more time enjoying the celebration!
Brown Sugar Candied Yams Ingredients
Simple and Sweet Essentials
- Sweet Potatoes – The heart of this dish; go for orange-fleshed for extra sweetness. Canned sweet potatoes? They work in a pinch!
- Brown Sugar – The magic ingredient that creates that deliciously caramelized glaze. It’s what makes these Brown Sugar Candied Yams so delightful!
- Butter – Boosts the flavor and adds richness to the sauce. Margarine can be a great dairy-free alternative!
- Orange Juice – Adds brightness and balance to the glaze. If you’re out, lemon juice makes a wonderful substitute!
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – A perfect blend of warm spices that enhance the sweetness. If needed, mix cinnamon and nutmeg for a quick replacement.
- Mini Marshmallows – Create a light, fluffy topping. Add these during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to get that golden-brown toastiness!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Sugar Candied Yams
Step 1: Prep Sweet Potatoes
Begin by washing and peeling your sweet potatoes, ensuring they are free from dirt. Slice them into 1/2-inch rounds or half-moons for even cooking. This size allows for tenderness and caramelization during the baking process. Place the cut sweet potatoes in a bowl and set aside, admiring their vibrant color as you prepare the next steps.
Step 2: Make Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, orange juice, and pumpkin pie spice until you achieve a smooth, sweet glaze. The rich aroma of brown sugar mixing with the citrus will fill your kitchen. This glaze is essential for your Brown Sugar Candied Yams, so be sure to mix until well combined and creamy before moving on.
Step 3: Layer in Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange the sweet potatoes in a single layer in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Drizzle the prepared glaze over the sweet potatoes, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. The sight of the glaze glistening over the bright yams is a wonderful preview of the delicious dish that’s about to come!
Step 4: Microwave Cook
Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Microwave the sweet potatoes on high for 18-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. This initial step softens the yams and allows them to absorb the glaze deeply. Carefully remove the dish from the microwave, noting the steam that escapes when you uncover it.
Step 5: Bake with Marshmallows
After microwaving, sprinkle mini marshmallows generously over the top of the sweet potatoes. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the marshmallows are toasted and golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as you want that delightful, fluffy top without burning!
Step 6: Final Touch
Once the marshmallows have reached a beautiful golden hue, remove the dish from the oven. Let the Brown Sugar Candied Yams cool slightly before serving to allow the glaze to thicken. The tantalizing aroma and stunning colors of your dish will have everyone eagerly anticipating this sweet holiday treat!
Brown Sugar Candied Yams Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and personalize your Brown Sugar Candied Yams with these delightful variations.
- Canned Sweet Potatoes: For a quick and easy option, swap in canned sweet potatoes. Just drain and rinse for less prep time!
- Maple Syrup Bliss: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer, more complex sweetness. It heightens the yams’ flavor profile beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft yams.
- Add Pineapple: Add crushed pineapple to the glaze for a tropical twist—sweet, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying!
- Orange Zest Boost: Enhance your orange juice with a bit of fresh orange zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor that brightens the dish.
- Heat It Up: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the yams.
- Alternative Spices: Don’t have pumpkin pie spice? A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger gives a warm touch—just like your favorite holiday treats!
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a fun twist, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the marshmallows before serving; it adds a decadent layer that’s hard to resist!
As you explore these variations, you might also consider enjoying your Brown Sugar Candied Yams alongside a classic Spinach Artichoke Dip or a batch of warm, chocolaty Pine Cone Brownies. These combinations can elevate your holiday feast into something extraordinary!
Storage Tips for Brown Sugar Candied Yams
Fridge: Keep your Brown Sugar Candied Yams in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 4 days. This helps preserve the rich flavors and textures.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the yams in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for optimal taste.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent marshmallows from burning while warming through.
Leftover Love: While reheating may soften marshmallows slightly, the delightful flavors of the yams will remain intact, ready for you to enjoy again!
Expert Tips for Brown Sugar Candied Yams
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Fork-Tender Check: Ensure sweet potatoes are fork-tender after microwaving. Under-cooking can result in a chewy texture that won’t caramelize well.
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Perfect Marshmallow Toasting: Add mini marshmallows only in the last 10-15 minutes of baking for a beautifully toasted top, avoiding burning and keeping them fluffy.
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Avoid Watery Casserole: Drain any excess liquid from the sweet potatoes after microwaving to prevent a watery dish.
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Extra Flavor Boost: Brush the top of the yams lightly with melted butter before adding marshmallows to enhance caramelization and flavor in your Brown Sugar Candied Yams.
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Spice Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix things up! If pumpkin pie spice isn’t on hand, a combo of cinnamon and nutmeg will do just fine.
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Leftover Love: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days without losing their delicious flavor, perfect for a sweet indulgence later on!
What to Serve with Brown Sugar Candied Yams?
As you prepare your holiday meal, imagine the delightful reunion of flavors that can make your gathering even more heartwarming.
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Roasted Turkey: The savory flavors of roasted turkey create a wonderful contrast with the sweet yams, enhancing the festive experience. A touch of gravy can elevate both dishes even further.
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Baked Ham: The salty sweetness of baked ham pairs beautifully with these candied yams, making for an irresistible combination that brings everyone to the table.
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Green Bean Casserole: This classic side dish adds a crunchy element that balances the softness of the yams, offering a delightful textural contrast in every bite.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: These bright and sweet carrots will complement the sugars in the yams while adding a burst of color to your plate. Plus, the honey’s natural sweetness ties everything together beautifully.
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Stuffing: A hearty stuffing brings savory notes, grounding the meal and countering the sweetness of the yams. The combination creates a balance that feels like a warm hug on your taste buds.
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Cranberry Sauce: This tangy and bright sauce cuts through the richness of the yams, providing a refreshing pop that rounds out your meal with a bit of zing.
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a smooth texture that contrasts with the yams’ caramelized goodness. The comfort level here is off the charts!
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Sparkling Apple Cider: This bubbly drink keeps the festive spirit alive while its fruity sweetness harmonizes wonderfully with the flavors of your candied yams.
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Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic dessert; its spiced flavors echo the warmth of the yams, creating a complete and satisfying holiday experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Brown Sugar Candied Yams are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious side without the last-minute scramble. You can prep the sweet potatoes and glaze up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wash, peel, and slice the sweet potatoes, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Mix the glaze and refrigerate it separately to maintain its rich flavor. When you’re ready to serve, combine the sweet potatoes and glaze in a baking dish, microwave for about 18-20 minutes, and then add the mini marshmallows before baking until golden. This method ensures your yams are just as tasty and have that delightful, gooey texture everyone loves!
Brown Sugar Candied Yams with Marshmallows Recipe FAQs
How do I choose sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choose orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for the best sweetness and creaminess. Look for firm potatoes without dark spots or blemishes. If you’re short on time, canned sweet potatoes can work as a great substitute—they’re convenient and still delicious!
What’s the best way to store leftover candied yams?
Very good question! Store your Brown Sugar Candied Yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Just remember that reheating will slightly soften the marshmallows, but the flavor will still be delightful.
Can I freeze the candied yams, and how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Brown Sugar Candied Yams, place them in an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, covering with foil to prevent the marshmallows from burning.
What can I do if my sweet potatoes are too firm after microwaving?
If your sweet potatoes aren’t tender enough after microwaving, don’t worry! Simply return them to the microwave, covered, and heat for an additional 2-3 minutes. Check for tenderness again, but do be cautious not to overcook them, as this can lead to a mushy texture when baked.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you have dairy allergies or dietary preferences, you can substitute butter with margarine or a plant-based butter alternative. Always double-check that other ingredients, like marshmallows, are allergy-friendly. Additionally, if you’re keeping an eye on sugar intake, consider using less brown sugar or a sugar substitute to suit your needs.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This recipe is great for make-ahead preparation. Prepare the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, increase the baking time by about 10 minutes if served cold. It’s a wonderful way to ease the holiday cooking rush while still enjoying the same delightful flavors of your Brown Sugar Candied Yams!
Brown Sugar Candied Yams That Steal the Holiday Show
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by washing and peeling your sweet potatoes, ensuring they are free from dirt. Slice them into 1/2-inch rounds or half-moons for even cooking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, orange juice, and pumpkin pie spice until you achieve a smooth, sweet glaze.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange the sweet potatoes in a single layer in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Drizzle the prepared glaze over the sweet potatoes.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Microwave the sweet potatoes on high for 18-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- After microwaving, sprinkle mini marshmallows generously over the top of the sweet potatoes. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes.
- Once the marshmallows have reached a beautiful golden hue, remove the dish from the oven. Let the Brown Sugar Candied Yams cool slightly before serving.
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