Ah, Candied Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows! Just saying the name brings back all the warm, cozy feelings of family gatherings and festive feasts. This dish isn’t just a side; it’s a sweet little hug for your taste buds! Honestly, I can’t imagine Thanksgiving without it. My fondest memory is of my grandma bustling around the kitchen, her apron dusted with flour as she whipped up this delicious treat. As soon as the aroma filled the air, I’d know it was nearly time to dig in, and I couldn’t wait to snag a scoop before it got to the table.
What makes this recipe so special is not just the deliciously sweet and buttery flavor but the contrast of velvety sweet potatoes with those puffed, golden marshmallows perched on top. Talk about an ideal duo! Whether you’re making it for a holiday or just for an everyday family dinner, this dish is sure to steal the spotlight. Let’s dive in and see what you need to whip this up!
What’s in Candied Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows?
Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show! They add a creamy texture and natural sweetness that makes this dish a favorite. Choose medium-sized sweet potatoes for the best results.
Unsalted Butter: This helps to create a rich and indulgent flavor while allowing us to control the saltiness of the dish. Always great to use unsalted, so you can adjust to your preference!
Brown Sugar: This ingredient adds that oh-so-sweet caramel note that we all love! I use light brown sugar for a more delicate sweetness, but dark can work for a richer flavor.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of this magical liquid enhances the overall sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile. Always opt for real vanilla extract over imitation for the best results!
Ground Cinnamon: This warm spice harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the potatoes, giving it that classic holiday feel.
Salt: Just a pinch is all you need to balance out the sweetness and bring all the flavors together.
Mini Marshmallows: These are the crowning glory of the dish! They turn golden and gooey in the oven, making every bite a delightful experience.
Is Candied Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows Good for You?
Oh boy, let’s talk health! While Candied Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows is undeniably delicious, it’s definitely on the indulgent side, thanks to the butter and sugar.
Sweet Potatoes: On the bright side, sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. They’re a great source of complex carbohydrates and provide natural sweetness, so they are a better choice than regular potatoes.
Butter and Brown Sugar: However, we should be mindful of the calories from the butter and brown sugar. It’s important to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially if you’re watching your sugar intake.
In a nutshell, while this dish might not be super “healthy” in the conventional sense, it’s certainly packed with nutrients and can be enjoyed as a lovely occasional treat!
Ingredients
– 4 medium sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
This recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on how generous you are with those scoops!
How to Make Candied Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a large pot, covering them with water. Bring to a boil and let them cook for about 15 minutes until just tender. Don’t overdo it – we want them soft but still able to hold their shape!
3. Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until everything is well combined. The smell is going to be fantastic!
5. Pour the butter mixture over the sweet potatoes and gently toss to coat them evenly. You want every piece of sweet potato to bask in that buttery goodness.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top. Because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a marshmallow topping?
8. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and gooey.
9. Allow to cool slightly before serving; this makes for a perfect side to your holiday feast or to accompany any weeknight meal!
Sweet Twists and Serving Suggestions
Want to kick things up a notch? Consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet softness of the potatoes and marshmallows. You can also try tossing in some dried cranberries or a dash of nutmeg for a different twist. Serve it warm alongside roasted meats, and watch everyone at the table go for seconds (or thirds!).
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! You’ll find that it’s not just about the food; it’s about creating warm memories that you’ll cherish for years to come. Share your experience, and let’s swap stories over the delicious meals we create!
