Sweet Potato Surprise Balls
Sweet potato surprise balls combine creamy mashed sweet potatoes with marshmallows and crunchy coatings, offering a delightful treat with warm spices and nutty flavors, perfect for comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel, slice, and boil the sweet potatoes until tender.
- Drain well and mash until smooth.
- Add flour, sugar, milk, cinnamon, vanilla, bourbon (to taste), baking powder, and broken pecans; mix well.
- Chill the mixture for easier handling.
- Mold the sweet potato mixture around halved marshmallows to form balls.
- Roll each ball in crushed corn flakes to coat.
- Refrigerate briefly to set.
- Deep fry in oil at 375°F (190°C) for about 3 to 4 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Drain well and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, try using almond flour instead of regular flour. If you want extra crunch, consider adding chopped walnuts or using a mix of corn flakes and crushed pretzels for the coating. Make sure to chill the sweet potato mixture thoroughly; it helps in forming the balls and prevents them from falling apart during frying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful balls as a fun appetizer or dessert at your next gathering. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness. They also go well with savory dishes, making them a great side for grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian platter featuring Mystery Canapes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Sweet Potato Surprise Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness, or briefly microwave them if you're in a hurry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Potato Surprise Balls contains roughly 324 calories, with 4g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 5g 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 the sweet potato mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and mold it into balls right before frying. This will save you time and allow the flavors to meld together nicely.
What can I substitute for the bourbon?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple juice or omit it entirely. The other flavors in the mixture will still shine through. For an alcohol-free version, consider using vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the Sweet Potato Surprise Balls instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
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).