There’s something magical about bite-sized comfort foods—crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Sweet Potato Hushpuppies are a perfect example. They take the classic Southern hushpuppy, a beloved fried cornmeal treat, and elevate it with naturally sweet, creamy mashed sweet potatoes. The result is golden, flavorful morsels that are perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack.
These hushpuppies are more than just a side—they’re a conversation starter at family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. The sweetness of the potato blends perfectly with the savory seasonings, and when paired with a creamy cinnamon butter dip, they become irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for kids, friends, or yourself, these sweet potato hushpuppies are a simple yet impressive way to bring joy to the table.
The best part? They’re easy to make, fully customizable, and can be served as a savory snack or sweet treat. Let’s dive into this cozy, golden-brown delight.
Recipe Overview
Sweet Potato Hushpuppies are crispy, golden fried balls made with mashed sweet potatoes and cornmeal. Flavored with a hint of garlic and green onions, they’re served warm alongside a creamy, sweet cinnamon butter dip. Perfect for any occasion, these hushpuppies combine sweetness, savoriness, and crunch in one irresistible bite.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 1 cup cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel, chop, and boil the sweet potatoes until tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well and mash until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
Tip: For extra flavor, leave a few small chunks for a slightly textured bite.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. These seasonings give the hushpuppies their savory balance.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together milk and egg until smooth. Add the mashed sweet potatoes and green onions (if using) to the dry ingredients. Pour in the milk mixture and stir until just combined. The batter should be thick and sticky.
Pro Tip: Avoid overmixing; overmixing can make the hushpuppies dense rather than light and fluffy.
4. Fry the Hushpuppies
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a deep skillet over medium-high heat (around 350°F). Using a spoon or small scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Cook until golden brown on all sides, about 3–5 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Tip: Keep the oil at a consistent temperature for even cooking. Too hot, and the hushpuppies will brown too fast; too cool, and they may absorb excess oil.
5. Prepare the Cinnamon Butter Dip
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. Serve warm alongside the hushpuppies.
Tip: For a richer dip, add a splash of heavy cream or a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
6. Serve
Serve the Sweet Potato Hushpuppies warm with the cinnamon butter dip on the side. They’re perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Add Mix-Ins
- Cheese: Fold in shredded cheddar or pepper jack for a savory surprise.
- Spices: Try smoked paprika or cayenne for a subtle kick.
- Herbs: Fresh chopped parsley or thyme can add a bright, savory note.
2. Baking Option
For a lighter alternative, bake hushpuppies at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden. They won’t be as crisp as fried but still delicious.
3. Sweet or Savory
- Keep them savory with garlic and green onions.
- Make them sweeter by adding an extra tablespoon of sugar or a drizzle of honey with the cinnamon butter.
4. Serving Ideas
- Serve alongside fried fish or barbecue dishes for a Southern-inspired meal.
- Use as a snack for parties—kids love the bite-sized portions.
- Pair with fresh fruit or yogurt dip for a breakfast twist.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze un-fried hushpuppies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Fry from frozen or thaw overnight.
Reheating
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes or in an air fryer for 3–4 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with barbecue or southern-style meals for a hearty plate.
- Serve with cinnamon butter or maple syrup for a sweet twist.
- Garnish with chopped green onions for color and freshness.
Sweet Potato Hushpuppies are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and crispy—all in one bite. Easy to make, fun to eat, and versatile, they’re a treat for any occasion. With their golden exterior, soft interior, and delightful cinnamon butter dip, these hushpuppies are sure to become a family favorite.
Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a weeknight meal, or just looking for a delicious snack, this recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and satisfaction. Crispy, fluffy, and full of warmth, these sweet potato hushpuppies are a little piece of Southern-inspired joy on every plate.
FAQs
1. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
2. Can I bake instead of fry?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.
3. Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the batter for up to 24 hours before frying.
4. Can I make these vegan?
Use a flax egg instead of a regular egg and plant-based milk and butter for a fully vegan version.
5. How do I keep them crispy after frying?
Drain well on paper towels and serve immediately. For longer-lasting crispiness, reheat in an oven or air fryer instead of the microwave.
Crispy, fluffy Sweet Potato Hushpuppies served with creamy cinnamon butter. Easy, golden, and flavorful—perfect snack, side dish, or appetizer for any occasion.
