Peggy'S Hawaiian Sweet Potato Balls
Sweet and tropical Hawaiian-inspired sweet potato balls topped with pineapple and cherries, combining warm spices with fruity flavors perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine mashed sweet potatoes, butter, salt, pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, and brown sugar in a bowl.
- Drop 1/3 to 1/2 cup of sweet potato mixture onto crushed cornflakes and roll into balls.
- Place the sweet potato balls on pineapple slices on a buttered cookie sheet.
- Top each ball with a maraschino cherry.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of sweet potatoes and regular potatoes. If you're out of cornflakes, crushed graham crackers or panko breadcrumbs can work as substitutes. Adding a touch of vanilla extract to the sweet potato mixture can enhance the flavor. Ensure the balls are well-coated in cornflakes for a satisfying crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet potato balls are a delightful side dish or appetizer that pairs beautifully with grilled meats and tropical salads. Serve them alongside a refreshing drink like Orange Delight(A Drink) for a complete Hawaiian-inspired meal. For an extra touch, drizzle with honey or serve with a tangy dipping sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover sweet potato balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it may result in a soggy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peggy'S Hawaiian Sweet Potato Balls contains roughly 490 calories, with 4g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value) and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 880mg per serving (38% 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 the sweet potato balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Form the balls and bake them right before serving for the best texture. This makes it easy to enjoy these delicious bites without last-minute preparation.
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of white sugar mixed with a teaspoon of molasses for a similar flavor. Alternatively, maple syrup or honey can be used, but you may need to adjust the amount of butter to compensate for added moisture.
Can I freeze the sweet potato balls?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked sweet potato balls. Place 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 for perfectly baked treats.
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).