Sweet Potatoes Balls
Sweet potato balls coated with coconut and marshmallows create a delightful, sweet treat perfect for snacks or dessert, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mash the canned sweet potatoes in a bowl.
- Take large marshmallows and roll them in the sweet potatoes, covering them completely.
- Roll the sweet potato-covered marshmallows in a pan of shredded coconut to coat.
- Place the coated sweet potato balls on a cookie sheet.
- Bake in the oven until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the sweet potatoes. If you can't find large marshmallows, mini marshmallows can work, but you may need to adjust the coating technique. You can also substitute shredded coconut with crushed graham crackers for a different texture. This recipe is a great way to use leftover sweet potatoes from other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet potato balls are delightful as a dessert or snack. Serve them warm with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. They pair well with vanilla ice cream or can be enjoyed alongside a savory dish like Barbecue Fries for a sweet and salty contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sweet potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This will help maintain their crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Potatoes Balls contains roughly 17 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 494mg per serving (21% 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 use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh sweet potatoes. Simply peel, boil, and mash them until smooth. This will add a fresher flavor to your sweet potato balls, but make sure to adjust the sweetness according to your taste as fresh sweet potatoes may vary in sweetness compared to canned ones.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the large marshmallows with vegan marshmallows, which are readily available in most grocery stores. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, so you can enjoy this treat without any animal products.
Can I freeze sweet potato balls?
Yes, you can freeze these sweet potato balls before baking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, you can cook them directly from frozen; 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).