The aroma of sweet, caramelized goodness wafted through my kitchen as I prepared a dish that’s become a beloved tradition in our home—Easy Southern Candied Yams with Marshmallows. This delightful side, a staple at holiday feasts, transforms tender sweet potatoes into a gooey, irresistible treat. With minimal prep and the option to use canned yams, this recipe is not just fuss-free but also a crowd-pleaser that charms both kids and adults alike. Plus, you can easily make it vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor! Ready to bring a touch of warmth to your holiday table? Let’s dive into the simple steps that turn these yams into a family favorite!

Why Make Easy Candied Yams?

Simplicity: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, these yams are approachable for any cook.

Nostalgic Flavor: The sweet and buttery combination, infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, brings a comforting warmth that evokes memories of family gatherings.

Versatile Options: Whether you use fresh sweet potatoes or canned yams, this recipe accommodates your needs, ensuring delicious results every time.

Crowd Pleaser: Topped with gooey marshmallows, this dish will have everyone reaching for seconds at your next holiday feast.

Make Ahead: Save time during the hustle and bustle of the holidays; prepare your yams in advance and simply bake before serving for a stress-free experience.

For more delightful sides, consider pairing these yams with Turkey Cupcakes or adding a twist to dessert with a Patterned Pumpkin Roll.

Easy Candied Yams Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to whip up those Easy Candied Yams!

For the Base

Canned Yams (29 oz) – The star of the dish; canned yams save time while still achieving that classic flavor.
Butter (¼ cup) – Adds richness; feel free to swap with vegan butter for a plant-based version.

For Sweetening

Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens and helps caramelize; you can adjust to ⅓ cup for a lighter touch.
Cinnamon (¼ teaspoon) – A must for warmth; enhances the holiday spirit with its nostalgic aroma.
Nutmeg (⅛ teaspoon) – A pinch adds depth; can be left out if you don’t have it on hand.
Salt (⅛ teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness, ensuring a harmonious flavor profile.

For the Topping

Miniature Marshmallows (1 ½ cups) – These melt beautifully, creating a sweet, gooey layer that entices everyone at the table.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Candied Yams

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is essential for achieving the perfect gooey texture in your Easy Candied Yams. While the oven warms up, gather your baking dish and cooking essentials to streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Next, take an 8×8 baking dish and drain the canned yams thoroughly. Spread the yams evenly across the bottom of the dish, ensuring they create a nice, even layer. The visual of these soft, glistening yams is just the beginning of your delicious journey!

Step 3: Layer the Butter
Cut the butter into small pieces and distribute them evenly over the surface of the yams. This will allow the butter to melt beautifully as the yams bake, enriching the flavors and adding to the gooey texture. Make sure you can see some butter on each section for optimal richness.

Step 4: Mix the Spices
In a separate mixing bowl, pour in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined. The aroma of the spices mingling together is an inviting prelude to the delicious candied yams you’re about to create.

Step 5: Season the Yams
Once mixed, sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the yams, ensuring every piece is coated with that delightful sweetness. Using your hands or a spoon, gently mix the top layer of yams to blend in some of the sugar, but avoid mashing them to maintain that chunky texture.

Step 6: Bake the Yams
Place the dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for 10 minutes. During this time, watch for the butter to melt and the sugar to begin caramelizing, creating a syrupy base that envelops the yams. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen, heightening the excitement!

Step 7: Add the Marshmallows
Remove the baking dish from the oven after 10 minutes, and now it’s time to add the miniature marshmallows on top. Spread them out evenly over the yams, creating a cushy layer that will melt and become delightful. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and perfectly gooey.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Candied Yams are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time during busy holiday preparations, you can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking stage, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. This not only makes it easy to pop them in the oven right before dinner, but it also allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. When you’re ready to serve, simply remove the cover and bake for 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C), then add the marshmallows and continue baking for an additional 8-10 minutes until they are golden and gooey. They’ll taste just as delicious as if prepared fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Candied Yams

Fridge: Store leftover Easy Candied Yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to reheat for a quick snack or side.

Freezer: You can also freeze pre-baked candied yams in a freezer-friendly container for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool them completely before freezing to maintain texture.

Reheating: When reheating, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. If they seem dry, add a splash of water to help revive their gooey goodness.

Make-Ahead: For convenient holiday planning, assemble your yams the night before baking. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to pop them in the oven!

Easy Candied Yams Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to tweak these Easy Candied Yams to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs—you’re just moments away from creating your ideal dish!

Pecan Topping: Add 1 cup of chopped pecans on top of the yams before marshmallows. This brings in a delightful crunch that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Citrus Burst: Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice over the yams for a zesty flavor. The citrus brightness lifts the sweetness, making every bite refreshing.
Tropical Twist: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped pineapple for a fruity twist that adds a hint of tropical vacation vibes. The pineapple’s juiciness pairs excellently with the warm spices.
Maple Sweetness: Substitute 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup in place of part of the brown sugar. This enhances the depth of flavor, adding a touch of cozy fall essence.
Nut-Free Option: Skip pecans if you have nut allergies and add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers instead. This gives a sweet, crunchy topping without the worry.
Vegan-Friendly: Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a plant-based treat that’s just as creamy. Your yams will still be delectably rich!
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a little heat. This unexpected twist takes your candied yams to a new level of flavor excitement.

For more inspiration, consider making a festive dish of Turkey Cupcakes Festive or delighting your guests with a stunning Patterned Pumpkin Roll.

What to Serve with Easy Candied Yams

Imagine a warm, inviting holiday table filled with comforting dishes that beautifully complement the sweet, gooey delight of your candied yams.

Roasted Turkey: The savory flavors of a perfectly roasted turkey create a delightful contrast to the sweetness of yams. A classic pairing that brings holiday cheer.
Honey Glazed Ham: The sweet glaze on ham enhances the richness of the yams while providing a savory balance that guests will adore.
Green Bean Casserole: This creamy, crunchy side adds a textural contrast to the smoothness of the yams, elevating your holiday spread.
Cornbread: A slice of moist, buttery cornbread provides a comforting contrast to the richness of candied yams; it’s a Southern staple that feels like home.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness of the yams, brightening up every bite on your plate.
Pecan Pie: For dessert, serve a slice of pecan pie; its nutty sweetness harmonizes perfectly with the yams and rounds off the meal with a seasonal touch.
Sparkling Apple Cider: Make your holiday celebrations extra special with a glass of bubbly apple cider, an excellent match for the sweet flavors of the yams.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture and saltiness of mashed potatoes create a delightful balance, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Grilled Asparagus: This fresh, lightly charred veggie provides a crisp bite that brightens the plate and adds a lovely green note alongside your candied yams.

Expert Tips for Easy Candied Yams

Brand Matters: Use Bruce’s canned yams for the best flavor; other brands may not yield the same sweetness and texture.
Butter Substitution: If you decide to go vegan, make sure to use a high-quality vegan butter to maintain that rich taste in your Easy Candied Yams.
Sugar Control: Feel free to adjust brown sugar to ⅓ cup if you prefer a less sweet version; this subtle balance still maintains deliciousness.
Spice Layering: For a more intense flavor, consider layering additional cinnamon or even a dash of ginger on top of the spice mix before baking.
Texture Tips: Keep the yams in chunky pieces. Mashing them will result in a less appealing texture; light mixing is key for flavor distribution.
Marshmallow Watch: Stay close while baking the marshmallows; they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly. Aim for a golden brown finish!

Easy Southern Candied Yams Recipe FAQs

What type of yams should I use for this recipe?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using Bruce’s canned yams. They provide that classic sweet taste and soft texture that’s essential for Easy Candied Yams. If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh sweet potatoes can be used as well; just peel and slice them into ⅛-¼” thick rounds for a homemade touch.

How long do leftover candied yams last in the fridge?
Leftover Easy Candied Yams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to allow them to cool to room temperature before transferring to the container for optimal freshness.

Can I freeze Easy Candied Yams?
Absolutely! You can freeze pre-baked candied yams in a freezer-friendly container for up to 2 months. Just be sure they are completely cooled before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can reheat directly from the freezer or thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my candied yams are too sweet?
If you’ve found your Easy Candied Yams to be overly sweet, a good tip is to adjust the brown sugar next time and reduce it to ⅓ cup. You can also add a touch of citrus, like a drizzle of fresh orange juice before baking, to bring a refreshing balance to the sweetness.

Are these yams suitable for vegans?
Yes! You can easily make this recipe vegan-friendly by substituting regular butter with a high-quality vegan butter. This way, you can enjoy the same rich and gooey goodness without any animal products!

How do I reheat candied yams without drying them out?
When reheating, place the yams in a baking dish and cover them with aluminum foil. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes. If they seem dry, adding a splash of water or a dab of vegan butter will help maintain that delicious gooey texture!