Candied Yams with a Marshmallow Topping
Candied Yams with a Marshmallow Topping is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by EllenCooks on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 44 min | Total: 1 hr 4 min
Cost: $6.70 total, $1.12 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 medium Sweet Potatoes (peeled after boiling, cut into large chunks)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted)
- 0.5 cup Dark Brown Sugar (packed)
- 2 cups Mini Marshmallows (sprinkled on top before final bake)
- 1 tablespoon Non‑Stick Cooking Spray (to coat baking dish)
Instructions
Trim and Chunk the Sweet Potatoes
Cut off the ends of each sweet potato and then cut into large, uniform chunks.
Time: PT5M
Boil the Sweet Potatoes
Place the chunks in a large pot, cover with cold water, bring to a boil, and cook for about 15 minutes or until fork‑tender.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: 212°F
Drain and Peel
Drain the potatoes in a colander, let them cool enough to handle, then peel off the skins.
Time: PT5M
Mash and Sweeten
Return the peeled potatoes to the pot or a large bowl, mash with a potato masher, add the melted butter and packed dark brown sugar, and stir until fully incorporated.
Time: PT5M
Prepare the Baking Dish
Spray a 13x9‑inch baking dish with non‑stick cooking spray, spreading it evenly.
Time: PT2M
Transfer the Mash
Evenly spread the mashed sweet potatoes in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Time: PT2M
First Bake
Place the dish in a pre‑heated oven and bake at 400°F for 25 minutes.
Time: PT25M
Temperature: 400°F
Add Marshmallow Topping
Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top.
Time: PT1M
Final Bake for Golden Marshmallows
Return the dish to the oven and bake for 3‑5 minutes, just until the marshmallows turn a beautiful golden brown.
Time: PT4M
Temperature: 400°F
Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 250
- Protein
- 2g
- Carbohydrates
- 45g
- Fat
- 8g
- Fiber
- 4g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Contains Dairy, Contains Gelatin
Allergens: Dairy, Gelatin
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Sweet Potatoes: Yams
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Coconut oil
- Instead of Dark Brown Sugar: White sugar + molasses
- Instead of Mini Marshmallows: Regular marshmallows, cut into small pieces
- Instead of Non‑Stick Cooking Spray: Butter or oil brushed on dish
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Potato Masher
- Measuring Cups
- Baking Dish (13x9 inch)
- Oven
- Spatula
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Boil the sweet potatoes until fork‑tender
- First bake at 400°F for 25 minutes
- Final bake of marshmallows – watch for golden color, not burnt
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use orange‑fleshed sweet potatoes for a vibrant color
- Pack the brown sugar firmly for consistent sweetness
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil for 1‑2 minutes after the marshmallows are golden (watch closely)
Troubleshooting
Yams are watery after baking.
Make sure to drain the boiled potatoes well and mash them until most moisture is absorbed; you can also bake an extra 5 minutes.
Marshmallows melt into a gooey mess instead of staying fluffy.
Watch the final bake closely and remove the dish as soon as the marshmallows turn golden; lower the oven temperature to 375°F if your oven runs hot.
Yams are not sweet enough.
Add an extra tablespoon of dark brown sugar to the mash before baking.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture changes when frozen.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Boil and mash the sweet potatoes up to a day ahead; keep refrigerated and reheat before adding marshmallows
- You can assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate; add marshmallows and do the final bake just before serving
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of candied yams in American holiday cuisine?
Candied yams have been a staple of American Thanksgiving and Christmas tables since the 19th century, reflecting the Southern tradition of sweetening root vegetables with butter and brown sugar. The dish symbolizes comfort and abundance during holiday celebrations.
What are the traditional regional variations of candied yams in the United States?
In the Southern United States, candied yams are often baked with marshmallows, while in the Northeast they may be topped with a crumble of pecans and brown sugar. Some Midwestern families add a splash of orange juice for extra brightness.
How is candied yams traditionally served in American Thanksgiving meals?
Candied yams are typically served as a warm side dish, placed alongside turkey, stuffing, and green bean casserole. It is usually presented in a shallow baking dish and eaten straight from the oven.
What occasions or celebrations is candied yams traditionally associated with in American culture?
Candied yams are most commonly associated with Thanksgiving and Christmas, but they also appear at family reunions, potlucks, and holiday brunches across the United States.
What makes candied yams with marshmallows special in American holiday cuisine?
The combination of caramelized brown sugar, rich butter, and a fluffy marshmallow topping creates a sweet‑savory contrast that is both nostalgic and indulgent, making it a standout side dish at holiday feasts.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for candied yams versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional ingredients are sweet potatoes (or yams), unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, and mini marshmallows. Acceptable substitutes include margarine for butter, white sugar plus molasses for brown sugar, and regular marshmallows cut into small pieces.
What other American dishes pair well with candied yams?
Candied yams pair beautifully with roasted turkey, honey‑glazed ham, cranberry sauce, and savory stuffing. A crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts provide a nice contrast to the sweetness.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making candied yams with marshmallows?
Common mistakes include over‑boiling the potatoes so they become waterlogged, under‑baking the first stage which leaves the mash cold, and leaving the marshmallows in the oven too long, causing them to melt into a sticky puddle.
Why does this candied yams recipe use a two‑stage bake instead of just adding marshmallows at the beginning?
Baking the yams first ensures they are fully cooked and develop a caramelized crust. Adding marshmallows at the end allows them to toast quickly to a golden hue without turning into a soggy mess.
Can I make candied yams ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can boil, mash, and refrigerate the sweet potato mixture up to 24 hours. Keep it covered, then add the marshmallows and perform the final bake just before serving.
What does the YouTube channel EllenCooks specialize in?
The YouTube channel EllenCooks specializes in simple, family‑friendly recipes that focus on classic comfort foods and holiday dishes, often using minimal ingredients and clear step‑by‑step instructions.
How does the YouTube channel EllenCooks' approach to American holiday cooking differ from other cooking channels?
EllenCooks emphasizes ultra‑simple ingredient lists and practical kitchen hacks, aiming to make traditional holiday dishes accessible to cooks of any skill level, whereas many other channels may use more elaborate techniques or exotic ingredients.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
