Holiday Yam Bake

Holiday Yam Bake is a warm, sweet, and buttery side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering. Made with tender yams, brown sugar, butter, and warm spices, this comforting dish is topped with either crunchy pecans or gooey marshmallows for the ultimate holiday treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
• Sweet and flavorful – A perfect blend of cinnamon, brown sugar, and butter.
• Crowd-pleaser – A favorite holiday side dish for all ages.
• Customizable – Choose a crunchy pecan topping or classic marshmallows.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Yam Base:

• Yams (or sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed)
• Butter (melted)
• Brown sugar
• Maple syrup or honey
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Salt
• Vanilla extract

For the Topping (Choose One or Both):

• Mini marshmallows
• Chopped pecans
• Additional brown sugar and melted butter (for pecan topping)

Directions

1. Preheat oven – Set to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the yams – Boil cubed yams for 10-15 minutes until fork-tender, then drain.
3. Mash and mix – In a bowl, mash the yams with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla. Stir until smooth.
4. Assemble the dish – Spread the yam mixture into the greased baking dish.
5. Add toppings –
   • For pecans: Mix chopped pecans with brown sugar and melted butter, then sprinkle over the yams.
   • For marshmallows: Sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly on top.
6. Bake – Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until marshmallows are golden brown and pecans are crispy.
7. Serve and enjoy – Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegan option – Use dairy-free butter and maple syrup.
• Less sweet version – Reduce brown sugar and skip the marshmallows.
• Extra crunchy topping – Add crushed graham crackers or oats.
• Coconut twist – Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical touch.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze without toppings for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions.

FAQs

Can I use canned yams instead of fresh?

Yes! Drain and mash canned yams, then follow the recipe as written.

What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?

True yams are starchy and dry, while sweet potatoes (often labeled as yams) are sweeter and creamier—either works in this recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish without toppings, refrigerate overnight, then add toppings and bake before serving.

Can I make this without mashing the yams?

Yes! Slice or cube them and coat with the butter-sugar mixture before baking.

How do I keep marshmallows from burning?

Cover with foil for the first 10 minutes, then remove it to let them brown.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor.

What can I serve with Holiday Yam Bake?

It pairs well with roasted turkey, ham, stuffing, and green bean casserole.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 4 hours, then add toppings and let them melt before serving.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Mix in a splash of heavy cream or milk while mashing the yams.

Can I add a streusel topping instead?

Yes! Mix flour, butter, brown sugar, and pecans for a crumbly, crunchy topping.

Conclusion

Holiday Yam Bake is a classic, comforting dish that brings warmth and sweetness to any holiday table. Whether topped with pecans, marshmallows, or both, this recipe is sure to be a festive favorite. Try it today and enjoy a taste of the holidays!

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