Baked New England Yams
Sweet and savory baked yams layered with pineapple, nuts, and marshmallows, offering a delightful combination of caramelized flavors perfect for holiday dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the pineapple, reserving 1/4 cup of syrup.
- Line a 10 x 6-inch baking dish with overlapping pineapple slices.
- Arrange the drained yams in the center of the dish.
- Pour the reserved syrup over the yams.
- In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cut in margarine or butter until the mixture looks like fine crumbs.
- Stir in chopped nuts.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture over the yams.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Top with miniature marshmallows or large marshmallows.
- Broil for 6 to 8 minutes until marshmallows are golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Baked New England Yams, consider adding a splash of orange juice or maple syrup for added sweetness. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin. Using gluten-free flour can also make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions. For a more festive touch, try adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Cole Slaw By Jane for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it alongside roasted meats or as part of a festive holiday meal. It's also delightful as a sweet addition to brunch. For an extra layer of flavor, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top for dessert-like indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Baked New England Yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place the yams in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. For a quick option, you can microwave individual servings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked New England Yams contains roughly 612 calories, with 9g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (102% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1572mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh yams instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh yams, you can peel, cube, and boil them until tender, then drain and use them in place of canned yams. This will give your dish a fresher taste and better texture. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as needed, as fresh yams may take longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for marshmallows?
If you're looking for a healthier or vegan option, you can use toasted coconut flakes or a drizzle of maple syrup as a topping instead of marshmallows. Alternatively, consider using homemade vegan marshmallows if available, or simply omit them for a less sweet finish. The dish will still be delicious without the marshmallow topping!
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare Baked New England Yams in advance, assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This ensures even cooking and a perfect golden top when baked.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).