Candied Yams with Marshmallow Topping

Candied Yams with Marshmallow Topping is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 390 calories per serving. Recipe by The Bare Pantry Show on YouTube.

Prep: 32 min | Cook: 50 min | Total: 1 hr 37 min

Cost: $4.80 total, $0.80 per serving

Ingredients

  • 4 cups Yams (peeled and cut into 1‑inch chunks)
  • 0.5 cup Brown Sugar (packed tightly; dark brown preferred)
  • 0.25 cup Unsalted Butter (melted (2 tbsp))
  • 1.5 cups Mini Marshmallows (for topping; can use regular marshmallows cut into pieces)

Instructions

  1. Peel and Cut Yams

    Peel the yams, then cut them into roughly 1‑inch chunks so they cook quickly and evenly.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Boil Yams Until Tender

    Place the yam chunks in a large pot, cover with cold water, bring to a boil, then simmer until a fork slides in easily.

    Time: PT20M

  3. Drain and Mash

    Drain the yams and return them to the pot. Using a potato masher, mash them while still hot for a smooth texture.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Combine Butter and Brown Sugar

    Melt the butter (microwave or saucepan) and stir in the packed brown sugar. Quickly fold the mixture into the mashed yams until fully incorporated.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Prepare Baking Dish

    Lightly grease a 9‑x‑13‑inch baking dish with a little butter (or a non‑stick spray if you prefer). Transfer the sweet yam mixture into the dish and smooth the top.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Preheat Oven

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: 400°F

  7. First Bake

    Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a light golden brown.

    Time: PT25M

    Temperature: 400°F

  8. Add Marshmallow Topping and Finish Baking

    Remove the dish, sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top, then return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, watching closely until the marshmallows turn golden‑brown.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 400°F

  9. Cool and Serve

    Allow the candied yams to cool for about 15 minutes so the topping sets, then serve warm.

    Time: PT15M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
390
Protein
2g
Carbohydrates
70g
Fat
12g
Fiber
3g

Dietary info: Vegetarian (contains gelatin), Gluten-Free

Allergens: Dairy, Gelatin

Last updated: April 16, 2026

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Candied Yams with Marshmallow Topping

Recipe by The Bare Pantry Show

A sweet‑and‑savory Thanksgiving side that combines tender boiled yams, brown sugar, butter, and a golden marshmallow topping. Easy to make, this dish brings a comforting, caramel‑kissed flavor to the holiday table.

EasyAmericanServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
42m
Prep
55m
Cook
12m
Cleanup
1h 49m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.80
Total cost
$0.80
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Boil yams until fork‑tender
  • First bake for 25 minutes at 400°F
  • Add marshmallows and bake an additional 5 minutes until golden

Safety Warnings

  • Hot water and boiling pot can cause burns; handle with oven mitts
  • Melted butter is hot; avoid splatter
  • The oven is very hot (400°F); use mitts when inserting/removing dish

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Candied Yams with Marshmallow Topping in American Thanksgiving cuisine?

A

Candied yams have been a staple of Southern Thanksgiving tables since the 19th century, reflecting the region’s love for sweet, caramelized vegetables. The marshmallow topping became popular in the mid‑20th century when canned marshmallows were introduced, adding a fluffy, dessert‑like finish that many families now associate with holiday comfort.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Candied Yams with Marshmallow Topping in the United States?

A

In the Deep South, recipes often include cinnamon, nutmeg, or a splash of orange juice. Some Mid‑Atlantic versions use maple syrup instead of brown sugar. The marshmallow topping is most common in the South, while Northern households may skip it entirely.

cultural
Q

How is Candied Yams with Marshmallow Topping traditionally served at Thanksgiving gatherings in American culture?

A

It is typically served warm as a side dish alongside turkey, stuffing, and green beans. The dish is placed on the buffet or family table and guests scoop generous portions onto their plates, often pairing it with savory sides for a sweet‑savory contrast.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Candied Yams with Marshmallow Topping traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

Besides Thanksgiving, candied yams appear at Christmas, New Year’s, and Southern holiday potlucks. The sweet flavor makes it a favorite for any festive gathering where comfort food is celebrated.

cultural
Q

What makes Candied Yams with Marshmallow Topping special or unique in American Thanksgiving cuisine?

A

The combination of caramelized brown‑sugar‑butter yams with a golden, toasted marshmallow crust creates a texture contrast—creamy interior and fluffy, slightly crisp topping—that few other Thanksgiving sides offer.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Candied Yams with Marshmallow Topping at home?

A

Over‑cooking the yams makes them waterlogged, and adding marshmallows too early can cause them to melt into a gooey mess. Also, be sure the butter and sugar are fully incorporated to prevent grainy pockets.

technical
Q

Why does this Candied Yams recipe use a two‑stage baking process instead of adding marshmallows from the start?

A

Baking the yam base first sets the flavor and creates a slight crust. Adding marshmallows later ensures they toast to a golden finish without burning or turning soggy, giving the dish its signature texture.

technical
Q

Can I make Candied Yams with Marshmallow Topping ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Prepare the mashed yam mixture up to the first bake, refrigerate, and bake when needed. Add the marshmallows and finish the final 5‑minute bake just before serving. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making Candied Yams with Marshmallow Topping?

A

The interior should be smooth and creamy with a faint caramel hue. After the first bake, the edges turn lightly golden. The marshmallow topping should be puffed and lightly browned, not burnt.

technical
Q

How do I know when Candied Yams with Marshmallow Topping is done cooking?

A

The yams are done when a fork slides in easily after boiling and the first bake yields a lightly browned top. The final bake is complete when the marshmallows are golden‑brown and slightly crisp on the edges.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel The Bare Pantry Show specialize in?

A

The Bare Pantry Show focuses on simple, budget‑friendly home cooking, often highlighting comfort foods, holiday dishes, and practical kitchen hacks for everyday cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel The Bare Pantry Show's approach to American Thanksgiving cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

The Bare Pantry Show emphasizes minimal ingredient lists, straightforward techniques, and cultural storytelling, avoiding overly elaborate presentations while still delivering flavorful, crowd‑pleasing dishes.

channel

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