Cranberry-Infused Candied Sweet Potatoes
Indulge in a delightful twist on the classic candied yams with this recipe that incorporates the bright and tangy flavor of fresh cranberries. The balance between the sweetness of the yams and the tartness of the cranberries creates a stunning flavor profile that is perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners. Topped with a buttery oat crumb and miniature marshmallows that turn golden in the oven, this dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual treat. Re-discovered from a cherished recipe collection, it promises to be a highlight at your table, bringing warmth and comfort to every bite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Flour
1/2 cup (none)
Packed Brown Sugar
1/2 cup (none)
Oatmeal
1/2 cup (uncooked)
Cinnamon
1 teaspoon (none)
Butter
1/3 cup (softened)
Yams
2 (17-ounce) cans (drained)
Cranberries
2 cups (raw)
Miniature Marshmallows
1 1/2 cups (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, packed brown sugar, uncooked oatmeal, and cinnamon. Mix well.
3
Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4
In a large bowl, gently toss the drained yams and fresh cranberries with 1 cup of the crumb mixture until they are evenly coated.
5
Transfer this mixture into a lightly greased 1.5-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
6
Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture generously over the top of the yams and cranberries.
7
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes or until bubbling and lightly browned.
8
After 35 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the miniature marshmallows on top, and return it to the oven.
9
Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and toasted.
10
Serve warm and enjoy the festive flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cranberry-Infused Candied Sweet Potatoes?
This dish is a festive twist on traditional candied yams, featuring fresh cranberries, a buttery oat crumb topping, and toasted marshmallows.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
While the recipe doesn't specify an exact count, a 1.5-quart casserole dish typically serves between 4 and 6 people.
Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned yams?
Yes, you can use fresh sweet potatoes. You should peel, cube, and boil or roast them until tender before proceeding with the recipe.
What type of oatmeal should be used for the crumb topping?
The recipe calls for uncooked oatmeal; rolled oats or quick oats work best for achieving the desired crumbly texture.
Can I substitute the brown sugar in the topping?
Yes, you can use coconut sugar or a brown sugar alternative, though the flavor profile may vary slightly.
What is the required oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for even baking.
How long do the sweet potatoes need to bake in total?
The total baking time is approximately 40 to 45 minutes, including the time for the marshmallows to toast.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all the ingredients listed, including the yams, cranberries, and marshmallows, are suitable for a vegetarian diet.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegan-friendly marshmallows.
What size casserole dish is recommended?
A lightly greased 1.5-quart casserole dish is the ideal size for this recipe.
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used. There is no need to thaw them before tossing them with the yams and crumb mixture.
Do the cranberries need to be cooked before mixing?
No, the recipe uses raw cranberries which will soften and burst during the baking process.
How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?
Only add the marshmallows during the last 5 to 10 minutes of baking and watch them closely until they turn golden brown.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can assemble the yams and cranberries with the topping ahead of time, but wait to bake and add marshmallows until you are ready to serve.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
What dishes pair well with these sweet potatoes?
This side dish pairs excellently with holiday favorites like roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or savory roast chicken.
Can I omit the cinnamon from the topping?
Yes, if you prefer, you can omit the cinnamon, although it adds a traditional warm spice flavor that complements the cranberries.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this sweet potato dish?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the marshmallows and canned yams may become unpleasantly soft upon thawing.
What is the purpose of the flour in the crumb mixture?
The flour acts as a binder for the butter and brown sugar, creating a distinct streusel-like crumb topping.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would be a delicious addition to the crumb topping for extra crunch.
Should the yams be drained before use?
Yes, ensure the canned yams are well-drained to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery during baking.
Can I use large marshmallows if I don't have miniature ones?
Yes, you can use large marshmallows, but it is best to cut them into smaller pieces for more even coverage and easier melting.
What if I don't have a pastry cutter for the butter?
You can use two forks or simply your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour and sugar mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Can I substitute margarine for butter?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in the crumb topping.
Is this recipe good for Thanksgiving?
Yes, the combination of sweet potatoes and cranberries makes it a perfect addition to a Thanksgiving or holiday menu.
How do I know when the dish is fully cooked?
The dish is done when the internal mixture is bubbling and the marshmallow topping has reached a golden-brown color.
Can I reduce the sugar content?
You can reduce the brown sugar slightly, but keep in mind it is essential for creating the 'candied' effect of the dish.
What can be used instead of oatmeal in the topping?
If you don't have oatmeal, you can increase the flour amount or use crushed graham crackers for a different texture.
Should the butter be melted or softened?
The recipe recommends using softened butter so it can be easily cut into the dry ingredients to form crumbs.