Sweet Potato Cups
Sweet potato cups with orange and raisin flavors offer a delightful, wholesome side or dessert, perfect for family gatherings or holiday celebrations with a touch of citrus sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sweet potatoes in a small amount of boiling water until tender.
- Cool slightly, peel and mash.
- Add margarine, raisins, and grated orange peel.
- Beat until fluffy.
- Add a small amount of orange juice if potatoes seem too dry.
- Stir in raisins.
- Cut a slice off the top of each orange and scoop out pulp.
- Heap the potato mixture into the orange shells.
- Top with marshmallows and bake at 350°F about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
When cooking the sweet potatoes, make sure they are just tender enough to mash without being overcooked, which can lead to a watery mixture. If you want a vegan option, substitute margarine with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. You can also use dried cranberries instead of raisins for a different flavor profile. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet potato cups make a delightful side dish for holiday gatherings or family dinners. Pair them with roasted meats or serve alongside dishes like Crunchy Creamed Corn for a well-rounded meal. They also work wonderfully as a festive appetizer. For a refreshing drink, consider serving them with Strawberry Party Punch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sweet potato cups 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 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but be cautious not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Potato Cups contains roughly 746 calories, with 12g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (131% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (85% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 849mg per serving (37% 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 prepare the sweet potato mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator and fill the orange cups before baking. This makes it easier to serve during busy meal times, especially around holidays.
What nutritional benefits do sweet potatoes offer?
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber and antioxidants. They provide a healthy dose of complex carbohydrates, making them an excellent choice for a nutritious dish that supports overall health.
Can I use different types of oranges for this recipe?
While navel oranges are commonly used, you can also experiment with blood oranges or cara cara oranges for a unique flavor twist. Each variety will add a distinct sweetness and color to your sweet potato cups.
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).