Spicy Sweet Potato Balls
Sweet and spicy, these crispy sweet potato balls are filled with marshmallows and coated in graham cracker crumbs, perfect as a comforting snack or festive treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mash the hot sweet potatoes and add brown sugar, butter, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add the egg and continue mashing until thoroughly combined.
- Chill the mixture if it is not firm enough to handle.
- Form the mixture into balls using 1/3 cup for each, placing 3 miniature marshmallows in the center of each ball if desired.
- Dredge the balls in graham cracker crumbs.
- Place the coated balls in a baking pan and bake in a 400°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sweet potato mixture. You can substitute the miniature marshmallows with chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. If the mixture is too sticky, a little extra graham cracker crumbs can help with shaping the balls. Ensure the sweet potatoes are well-mashed for a smoother texture.
Serving Suggestions
These spicy sweet potato balls can be served as a delightful appetizer or a unique side dish. Pair them with a tangy yogurt dip or a drizzle of honey for added flavor. They also complement hearty dishes like the Heavenly Delight Pie or Mouth-Watering Turkey Stuffed Mushrooms beautifully, making them a versatile addition to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover spicy 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 warm. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Sweet Potato Balls contains roughly 2978 calories, with 12g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 262g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1384mg per serving (60% 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 until you're ready to bake. This makes for a convenient option for gatherings or busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, consider using a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce (1/4 cup). Both work well to bind the ingredients together while keeping the recipe suitable for various diets.
Can I freeze these sweet potato balls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked sweet potato balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container once frozen. They can be baked straight from the freezer; just add 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).