Yams with marshmallows is a classic, comforting dish especially popular during the holidays. This sweet and gooey side dish combines tender yams with a luscious marshmallow topping that melts into a golden, toasted finish. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook yams with marshmallows perfectly, this guide will walk you through the process with easy steps and tips to make your dish a crowd-pleaser.
What You Need to Know Before Starting
– Yams vs. Sweet Potatoes: In the U.S., what’s often labeled as “yams” are usually orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. For this recipe, you want the orange-fleshed kind, which are sweeter and softer when cooked.
– Fresh or Canned: You can use fresh yams or canned yams (or sweet potatoes). Canned yams save time since they’re already cooked, while fresh yams offer a more homemade feel and texture.
– Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows work best for even melting and browning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Fresh or canned yams (about 40 oz if canned, or 3 large fresh yams)
– Butter (about ⅓ cup for canned yams, or 1 tablespoon melted for fresh yams)
– Brown sugar (light or dark, ½ to ⅔ cup depending on sweetness preference)
– Mini marshmallows (about 1½ to 2 cups)
– Optional spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, vanilla extract, salt
– Optional additions: orange juice or heavy cream for extra flavor and creaminess
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Yams with Marshmallows
1. Prepare the Yams
– If using fresh yams: Peel and cut into 1-inch cubes. Roast or boil until fork-tender (about 25-35 minutes roasting at 425°F or boiling until soft). Drain and place in a mixing bowl.
– If using canned yams: Drain the syrup and spread the yams evenly in a buttered baking dish.
2. Make the Candied Mixture
– For fresh yams, toss the cooked yams with melted butter, brown sugar, a pinch of salt, and optional spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract or orange juice for extra flavor.
– For canned yams, simply sprinkle butter slices and crumble brown sugar over the yams in the dish.
3. Bake the Yams
– Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 375°F to 400°F.
– Bake uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, until the yams are bubbling and the sugar mixture has thickened and caramelized slightly.
4. Add the Marshmallows
– Remove the dish from the oven and evenly sprinkle mini marshmallows over the top of the yams.
– Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-15 minutes, or until the marshmallows are puffed, melted, and golden brown on top. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Tips for the Best Yams with Marshmallows
– Use a glass or ceramic baking dish to help the yams cook evenly and caramelize nicely.
– Don’t cover the dish while baking; the marshmallows need direct heat to toast properly.
– Add nuts like pecans for a crunchy contrast if you like a mix of textures.
– Adjust sweetness to taste by varying the amount of brown sugar and marshmallows.
– Serve warm right out of the oven for the best gooey texture.
Variations to Try
– Mashed yams with marshmallows: Instead of chunks, mash the cooked yams with butter, brown sugar, and cream before topping with marshmallows and baking.
– Add spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add warmth and depth.
– Use orange juice or zest: Adds a fresh citrus note that complements the sweetness.
– Make it ahead: Prepare the yams and candied mixture, refrigerate, then add marshmallows and bake just before serving.
Why Are Marshmallows Added to Yams?
The tradition of adding marshmallows to yams dates back to early 20th-century America, likely influenced by marshmallow manufacturers. The sweet, fluffy marshmallows create a delightful contrast to the tender, caramelized yams, making this dish a beloved holiday staple, especially at Thanksgiving.
Yams with marshmallows is a simple, nostalgic dish that brings warmth and sweetness to any table. Whether you opt for fresh or canned yams, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to become a favorite side dish in your home.
Enjoy your delicious, gooey, and perfectly toasted yams with marshmallows!