Marshmallow Yams Recipe: Sweet and Gooey Thanksgiving Classic

Marshmallow yams are a Thanksgiving staple for good reason – they’re sweet, gooey, and impossible to resist. This classic recipe brings together perfectly cooked yams with a golden marshmallow topping that’s sure to become a family favorite.

With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll achieve a deliciously caramelized marshmallow crust and tender yams that are perfect as a side dish or even a main course. Let’s make this Thanksgiving classic!

Ingredients for Marshmallow Yams

Simple ingredients come together to make this sweet and gooey Thanksgiving classic.

For the best yams, look for firm, blemish-free garnet or jewel yams. Most grocery stores carry them in the fall. Costco often has great prices on bulk yams. The marshmallows matter too—Kraft or Jet-Puffed are classic choices. If you’re feeling fancy, try gourmet marshmallows for a different twist.

No heavy cream? Whole milk or half-and-half works as a substitute, though it changes the richness slightly. Want extra crunch? Pecans or walnuts both work well. The spices can be adjusted to taste—more cinnamon for warmth, more nutmeg for depth. If you’re out of ground spices, grate whole ones fresh for the best flavor.

This dish reheats beautifully in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. The yam mixture can be prepped ahead and stored in the fridge for 2 days before baking. Marshmallows go on just before baking for the best results.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Marshmallow Yams

Follow these precise steps to create the perfect sweet and gooey marshmallow yams for your Thanksgiving feast.

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Yams

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. While the oven heats up, peel the 2 whole Yams and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Place the yam pieces in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them completely. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the yams are tender when pierced with a fork.

Drain the cooked yams in a colander and return them to the pot. Add the 0.25 cup melted Unsalted Butter, 0.5 cup Brown Sugar, 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon, 0.25 tsp Salt, 1 tsp Vanilla Extract, and 0.25 cup Heavy Cream (if using). Mash the yams with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and well combined with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Transfer Yams to Baking Dish and Top

Transfer the mashed yam mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. If you’re using the 0.5 cup Pecans for added crunch, sprinkle them evenly over the yam mixture. The pecans will add a delightful texture contrast to the dish.

Next, evenly spread the 2 cups Mini Marshmallows over the top of the yam mixture. Make sure to cover the entire surface to achieve that signature marshmallow topping. If you prefer a more golden-brown marshmallow top, you can arrange them in a single layer, slightly touching each other.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and the yam mixture is heated through. If you prefer a more caramelized marshmallow top, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the 1 tbsp Orange Zest, 0.25 tsp Ground Nutmeg, and 0.125 tsp Allspice over the top. These spices will add a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the yams and marshmallows.

Step 4: Serve Warm

Serve the marshmallow yams warm, straight from the oven. The combination of the creamy yam mixture, the crunchy pecans (if using), and the gooey marshmallow topping will make this dish a standout at your Thanksgiving table. Enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures that this classic recipe offers.

Wine and Beer Pairings for These Flavors

White Wine Options

For marshmallow yams, a sweet white wine pairs beautifully. I recommend a Riesling or Moscato to complement the dish’s sweetness. These wines have enough acidity to cut through the richness. Look for a German Riesling from regions like Mosel for excellent balance.

Sparkling Wine Pairing

A dry sparkling wine can be a delightful contrast to the sweet yams. Try a Cava or Prosecco for their crispness and celebratory feel. The bubbles cleanse your palate between bites. For a special touch, choose a brut or extra brut style.

Beer Pairing Suggestions

If you prefer beer, a malty, caramel-flavored brew complements the marshmallow topping nicely. Look for an Amber Ale or Scotch Ale. These beers have enough sweetness to match the dish while providing a nice balance. For craft beer enthusiasts, a Belgian Dubbel can add interesting complexity.

Fortified Wine Option

For a different twist, try a fortified wine like Port or Madeira. These wines have rich, sweet flavors that complement the caramelized marshmallows. A Tawny Port with nutty notes pairs particularly well. Serve in small portions as they’re quite rich.

Serving Tips

When serving with wine or beer, consider the temperature. White wines and sparkling wines should be chilled to around 45-50°F. Beers are best served between 40-55°F depending on style. Let fortified wines breathe a bit before serving to enhance their complex flavors. Enjoy your marshmallow yams with these beverage pairings! 🍷