Sweet Potatoes Surprise Balls
Sweet Potatoes Surprise Balls are a delightful treat combining creamy mashed sweet potatoes with marshmallows, coated with coconut or corn flakes, perfect for a warm, comforting dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the sweet potatoes in salted water until fork-tender; drain well, reserving some liquid if needed.
- Mash the potatoes and mix with sugar, margarine, cinnamon, and marshmallows, using reserved liquid if the mixture is too dry.
- Using hands and a large spoon, spread the potato mixture around large marshmallows.
- Roll the balls in crushed corn flakes or coconut.
- Bake at 350°F until the marshmallows soften, about 10 minutes.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the sweet potatoes are well-mashed before mixing with other ingredients. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey. Additionally, consider using plant-based margarine for a vegan version. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These Sweet Potatoes Surprise Balls make for a delightful dessert or a unique snack. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness. For a festive touch, serve alongside Red Or Green Christmas Pickles to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Sweet Potatoes Surprise Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Potatoes Surprise Balls contains roughly 331 calories, with 5g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value) and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. 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 Sweet Potatoes Surprise Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and form the balls right before baking. This can save time, especially when entertaining guests.
What can I use instead of large marshmallows?
If you can't find large marshmallows, you can use mini marshmallows or even chocolate chips for a different flavor twist. Just ensure they are evenly distributed in the potato mixture for a surprise in every bite.
Can I freeze the Sweet Potatoes Surprise Balls?
Yes, these balls can be frozen before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, you can cook them directly from frozen, adding 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).