Candied Yams Marshmallow Vanilla (Print Version)

Tender yams baked in buttery glaze, topped with melted marshmallows and a touch of vanilla.

# Ingredient List:

→ Yams

01 - 4 large yams (about 3.3 lbs), peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks

→ Glaze

02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
04 - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
05 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Topping

09 - 2 cups mini marshmallows

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
02 - Distribute yam chunks evenly in the prepared baking dish.
03 - In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
04 - Pour glaze evenly over yams and gently toss to coat thoroughly.
05 - Cover dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
06 - Remove foil, gently stir yams, and bake uncovered for 10 minutes until yams are fork-tender and glaze is bubbling.
07 - Sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly over yams.
08 - Return to oven and bake for 5-7 minutes until marshmallows are golden and melted.
09 - Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

# Helpful Hints:

01 -
  • Simple and fuss-free: With just 15 minutes of prep and straightforward steps, this recipe is rated Easy — perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
  • Deeply flavorful glaze: The combination of butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a rich, aromatic glaze that soaks beautifully into the yams.
  • Crowd-pleasing finish: The golden, gooey marshmallow topping adds a playful sweetness that both kids and adults adore.
  • Vegetarian-friendly: A naturally vegetarian side dish that fits comfortably on any holiday table.
  • Make-ahead friendly: You can assemble the yams and glaze in advance and bake when ready, making it ideal for busy entertaining days.
02 -
  • Substitute freely: If yams are unavailable at your market, sweet potatoes work beautifully in their place with no adjustments needed.
  • Boost the glaze: Add a splash of orange juice or a little orange zest to the glaze for a bright, citrusy layer of flavor that complements the vanilla and cinnamon perfectly.
  • Broiler trick for marshmallows: For a deeply caramelized, toasted marshmallow top, switch to the broiler for 1–2 minutes at the very end — but watch closely to prevent burning.
  • Check your allergens: This dish contains dairy (butter). Marshmallows may contain gelatin — check labels if you need a vegetarian or vegan version.
  • Perfect pairing: This side dish pairs exceptionally well with roasted turkey or glazed ham for a complete festive meal.
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