Gramma'S Candied Yams
Sweet, tender yams coated in a rich brown sugar and lemon glaze, topped with marshmallows. Perfect for holiday dinners or comforting family meals, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil sweet potatoes until tender.
- Peel and slice the sweet potatoes lengthwise.
- In a 10-inch skillet, melt the margarine.
- Add brown sugar, lemon extract, cinnamon, and hot water to the skillet.
- Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add sliced sweet potatoes to the skillet.
- Heat for several minutes on each side until the sweet potatoes are hot.
- Remove the sweet potatoes from the skillet and place them in a 13 x 9-inch dish.
- Top with mini marshmallows and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of margarine. If you want to make this dish vegan, substitute the margarine with a plant-based alternative. To enhance the sweetness, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the brown sugar by half or use maple syrup instead.
Serving Suggestions
These candied yams are perfect for holiday meals and pair beautifully with savory dishes like roasted turkey or glazed ham. Consider serving alongside a Winter Waldorf Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, add a side of Corn Maquechou to enhance the flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the candied yams in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gramma'S Candied Yams contains roughly 679 calories, with 10g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
While fresh sweet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Just drain them and reduce the cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the candied yams up to a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to step 8, then cover the dish and refrigerate. Before serving, add the marshmallows and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
What can I use instead of mini marshmallows?
If you don't have mini marshmallows, consider using chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy topping. Alternatively, you can drizzle with caramel sauce for extra sweetness and richness.
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).