Festive Sweet Potato Balls
Festive sweet potato balls are a delightful treat combining sweet and savory flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family desserts, with marshmallows and crunchy cornflakes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked, mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, salt, butter or margarine, and lemon zest (if using) in a bowl.
- Add very little milk, if needed, to achieve a mixture that is not too moist for forming balls.
- Form mixture into balls around marshmallows.
- Roll each ball in crushed cornflakes to coat evenly.
- Place the coated balls in a buttered baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F until marshmallows bubble and the tops are golden, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato mixture. If you're out of brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar mixed with a little molasses. Ensure the sweet potato mash is smooth to help form the balls easily. If you're looking for a no-bake option, try making No Bake Oatmeal Drops for a different treat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these festive sweet potato balls as a unique appetizer or dessert at your holiday gatherings. They pair beautifully with a side of Baked Garlic Cheese Grits for a comforting meal. Consider drizzling them with a light glaze or serving with whipped cream for added indulgence. They also make a fun addition to a brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sweet potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This will help maintain their crisp coating while ensuring the inside stays soft and gooey.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Festive Sweet Potato Balls contains roughly 399 calories, with 3g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of potassium (16% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value).
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 these sweet potato balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato mixture and form the balls a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bake them just before serving. This makes them a convenient option for holiday parties or gatherings.
What can I use instead of cornflakes for coating?
If you prefer a gluten-free option, try using crushed rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs to coat the sweet potato balls. Alternatively, chopped nuts can add a nice crunch and flavor if you're looking for a different texture.
Can I freeze the sweet potato balls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked sweet potato balls. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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).