Famous Yam Balls
Famous Yam Balls offer a delightful combination of sweet potatoes, pineapple, and marshmallows, coated in coconut—perfect as a sweet appetizer or dessert for gatherings and family treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake 6 sweet potatoes until tender, then mash them smoothly.
- Mix the mashed sweet potatoes with sugar and crushed pineapple until well combined.
- Wrap large marshmallows with portions of the mashed sweet potato mixture around each marshmallow.
- Roll each wrapped marshmallow in shredded coconut to coat evenly.
- Place the coated yam balls in a baking dish and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 25 minutes until heated through and slightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato mixture. If you want a lighter version, use mini marshmallows instead of large ones. You can also substitute the shredded coconut with crushed nuts for a different texture. To save time, use canned sweet potatoes instead of baking fresh ones, but be sure to drain them well.
Serving Suggestions
These yam balls make a delightful snack or dessert and pair beautifully with Grace'S Punch for a festive touch. Serve them alongside a fresh salad, like Apple Cider Slaw, to balance their sweetness. They can also be enjoyed as a fun party treat or during holiday gatherings for a unique twist on traditional flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover yam balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving them as this can make the marshmallows chewy rather than fluffy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Famous Yam Balls contains roughly 171 calories, with 3g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 6g 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 make yam balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the yam balls and store them unbaked in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing them in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of marshmallows?
If you're looking for a vegan option or want to avoid marshmallows, consider using vegan marshmallow alternatives or even a dollop of whipped coconut cream. You can also try using a small piece of dried fruit, like apricots or figs, for a different flavor profile.
How do I prevent the yam balls from falling apart?
To keep your yam balls intact, ensure that the sweet potato mixture is well-mixed and not too wet. If the mixture feels too loose, you can add a bit of cornstarch or flour to help bind it. Additionally, be sure to wrap the marshmallows tightly with the sweet potato mixture.
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).