Mimi's Sweet Potatoes in Orange Cups

My mother made these every year for the holidays. I have made them for a church fellowship dinner, using 100 oranges. They were a big hit! Little kids can hold them in their hands and walk around without spilling. You can prepare this up to three days ahead of time and it travels well. Theres an extra bonus: The orange sections can be used for making delicious ambrosia.

Mimi's Sweet Potatoes in Orange Cups
Mimi's Sweet Potatoes in Orange Cups

My mother made these every year for the holidays. I have made them for a church fellowship dinner, using 100 oranges. They were a big hit! Little kids can hold them in their hands and walk around without spilling. You can prepare this up to three days ahead of time and it travels well. Theres an extra bonus: The orange sections can be used for making delicious ambrosia.

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 12
  • Carbohydrate 25.2471458342841 g
  • Cholesterol 10.1229166666667 mg
  • Fat 5.52391458472807 g
  • Fiber 2.19225000922135 g
  • Protein 1.55542291688878 g
  • Saturated Fat 2.57964750012021 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 serving (91g)
  • Sodium 74.0550000000658 mg
  • Sugar 23.0548958250627 g
  • Trans Fat 0.362562291738039 g
  • Calories 152 calories

Step-by-step

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
  • Cover sweet potatoes with cold water in a large pot and boil until fork tender.
  • Peel the potatoes, transfer to a bowl, and mash.
  • Stir in butter, orange juice and pecans, and mix until incorporated.
  • For the orange shells, cut each orange in half and scoop out the pulp using a small knife or grapefruit spoon. Reserve the pulp for another use.
  • Fill each orange shell with the potato mixture and top off with the marshmallows.
  • Bake until hot and the marshmallows are melted.

Mimi's Sweet Potatoes in Orange Cups: A Holiday Tradition

For years, the aroma of warm spices and sweet potatoes has filled our home during the holidays. It's a scent inextricably linked to my mother's recipe: Mimi's Sweet Potatoes in Orange Cups. These aren't just sweet potatoes; they're a festive centerpiece, a conversation starter, and a delicious memory all rolled into one. Each bite is a burst of sweet and savory perfection, a perfect harmony of creamy potatoes, crunchy pecans, and the subtle citrusy tang of the orange cups.

The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but in its practicality. Imagine a holiday gathering, children happily strolling around with their own individual portion of these delightful sweet potato treats, held safely within their adorable orange cups. No messy spills, no fighting over servings – just pure holiday joy. The preparation itself is surprisingly easy, and you can even make it ahead of time, reducing the stress on your already busy schedule. The recipe allows for flexibility too; I once made a massive batch for a church event, using a hundred oranges! The resulting sweet potato extravaganza was a massive hit, with everyone raving about its unique presentation and delightful flavour.

Beyond the obvious deliciousness, this recipe holds a special place in my heart. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a legacy, a tradition passed down from my mother. Every year, I re-create her recipe, carrying on the family tradition. It’s a way to honor her memory and create new memories of my own. And the best part? The leftover orange pulp isn’t wasted; it’s perfect for making a delicious ambrosia salad, adding an extra layer of sweetness and flavour to the holiday celebration. The ambrosia is a delightful addition to our holiday spread, showcasing the versatility of this simple, yet elegant recipe.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion, not just the holidays. It is a delightful dish to share with loved ones, a crowd-pleaser that always leaves a lasting impression. It's versatile enough to be served at a casual family gathering or a more formal dinner party. The unique presentation in orange cups adds an element of sophistication that is both visually appealing and incredibly convenient. The vibrant colour of the oranges enhances the overall presentation, making it an ideal dish for potlucks or holiday gatherings. Its ease of transport also makes it a perfect dish for carrying along to any event.

More than just a dish, Mimi’s Sweet Potatoes in Orange Cups is a testament to the power of simple ingredients, transformed into something truly special by a little creativity and love. It's a recipe that speaks to the heart, evoking feelings of warmth, family, and togetherness. It’s a recipe I am proud to share, and one that I hope will become a cherished tradition in your home, too. So, gather your ingredients, put on some festive music, and prepare to create a culinary masterpiece that will be the star of your next gathering.

Beyond the Recipe: The beauty of this dish extends beyond its taste and presentation. The preparation process itself is a wonderful opportunity for bonding. Involving children in the process – from washing the oranges to scooping out the pulp – adds an extra layer of fun and engagement to the experience. It's a chance to create lasting memories while simultaneously preparing a delicious meal. The recipe’s versatility also allows for customization. Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, or add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavours. The possibilities are endless! It’s a dish that encourages creativity and allows you to put your own personal touch on a family favourite.

So, this holiday season, or anytime you want a special treat, I encourage you to try Mimi’s Sweet Potatoes in Orange Cups. You won’t be disappointed. The combination of sweet potatoes, pecans, oranges, and marshmallows creates a symphony of flavours that will tantalize your taste buds. It's a recipe that's both simple and elegant, delicious and memorable. It's a recipe that’s truly worth sharing. I hope it brings you as much joy as it brings me.