Name: Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots Your Kids Will Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Sweet Potato (Cooked and cooled); 1 cup Zucchini (Grated and excess water squeezed out); 1/4 cup Coconut Flour (Can substitute with almond flour or all-purpose flour); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Optional for flavor enhancement)

“Imagine biting into a crispy, golden tot that’s both delicious and healthy! These Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are my go-to snack for satisfying those cravings without any guilt. With just three simple ingredients, this recipe shines as a perfect treat for kids and adults alike—ideal for lunchboxes or as a nutritious snack on movie night. They’re not only packed with vitamins but also adhere to vegan and paleo diets, making them a winner for everyone at the table. Plus, with a cooking method that’s versatile enough for baking or air frying, you can easily choose your preferred approach to achieve that perfect crunch. So, are you ready to add a new twist to your snack time? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!”

Why Are These Tots So Special?

Unique Ingredients: The combination of sweet potatoes and zucchini makes a flavorful duo, bringing both nutrition and taste to the table.
Easy Prep: With just three main ingredients, you can whip up these tots with minimal effort—ideal for busy weeknights!
Versatile Cooking: Whether you bake or air fry, you have options for achieving that desired crispiness; the choice is yours!
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love them, making this a fantastic addition to your family meals. Add some herbs to change the flavor profile or even substitute zucchini with shredded carrots for a fun twist! Check out more ideas with Zucchini Garlic Bites for an exciting side!
Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch, freeze, and reheat for delicious snacks anytime—perfect for meal prep!

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots Ingredients

For the Tots

Sweet Potato – Provides natural sweetness and moisture; remember to cool after cooking for the best texture.
Zucchini – Adds moisture and nutrition; be sure to squeeze out excess water for a crispy result.
Coconut Flour – Acts as a binding agent to hold the tots together; you can substitute with almond flour or all-purpose flour if needed.

Optional Seasonings

Salt – Enhances flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Garlic Powder – Adds a savory kick; feel free to experiment with other spices to customize your tots!

Enjoy these Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots as a guilt-free snack or a fun side dish for the whole family!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Step 1: Prepare Sweet Potatoes
Begin by boiling or steaming the sweet potatoes until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool completely to achieve the best texture for your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
While the sweet potatoes cool, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure an easy clean-up after baking. This step is crucial for achieving crispy and well-cooked tots.

Step 3: Prep Zucchini
Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. After grating, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or several paper towels, and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step helps maintain the desired crispiness of your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled sweet potatoes, grated zucchini, and coconut flour. Season with a pinch of salt and any preferred spices like garlic powder to enhance the flavor. Mix thoroughly until you have a cohesive mixture that holds together well.

Step 5: Shape Tots
Take a handful of the mixture and form it into small, tot-sized shapes, about the size of a golf ball. Place each shaped tot onto the prepared baking tray, ensuring they are evenly spaced to promote even baking and crisping.

Step 6: Bake
Transfer the baking tray to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, gently flip the tots to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. They should be golden and crispy when finished.

Step 7: Serve
Once the Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy them hot right out of the oven or let them cool completely before freezing for later use.

How to Store and Freeze Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Room Temperature: These Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, they can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours.

Fridge: Store any leftover tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a toaster oven for the best results.

Freezer: Freeze cooled Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until crispy.

Reheating: For optimal texture, reheating in the oven is recommended. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the tots soggy.

What to Serve with Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots?

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots make a delightful addition to your meal, inviting a variety of perfectly paired sides and flavors.

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette enhances the meal’s freshness and balances the savory tots.
Creamy Avocado Dip: The rich, buttery texture of avocado makes for a smooth, delicious dip that complements the crispy tots beautifully.
Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a hearty dose of nutrients and earthy flavors that pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the tots.
Tangy Vegan Ranch: A homemade vegan ranch dip provides a creamy, tangy contrast that elevates the crispy exterior of the tots.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Keep the sweet potato theme alive! Crispy baked wedges provide amazing texture and flavor alongside the tots.
Apple Sauce: The sweet and slightly tart flavor of apple sauce serves as a delightful dipping option, especially for kids.
Fruit Smoothie: A refreshing smoothie made with fruits like bananas and berries can create a balanced meal that satisfies every craving.
Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink like sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime refreshes the palate and adds a fun element to your meal.

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delicious tots and explore different flavors and textures!

Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fragrant boost. Each bite will be bursting with freshness!
Spicy: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a zesty kick. This simple addition elevates the flavor profile and adds warmth.
Cheesy Twist: Fold in some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. It’s a fantastic option that packs in more nutrients and umami!
Veggie Swap: Try substituting zucchini with shredded carrots or even broccoli. Each veggie brings its own character, yielding deliciously different results.
Nut-Free Crunch: Use ground flaxseed mixed with water instead of flour for a nut-free binding agent. This creates a lovely chewy texture while keeping it health-conscious!
Sweet & Savory: Mix in a tablespoon of maple syrup for a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory notes. Imagine that sweet, comforting flavor dancing on your taste buds!
Bite-Sized: For a fun twist, shape the mixture into smaller, bite-sized portions perfect for dipping. Kids love the mini size, and it makes for easy snacking.
Fluffy Versions: Experiment with baking versus air frying! Air frying at 350°F ensures a crispier texture, perfect if you’re craving that ultimate crunch found in classic tots. If you enjoy flavorful bites, pair these with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce—like a cool vegan ranch or spicy avocado mojo from Mojo Bowls Sweet—to enhance every delicious morsel!

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sweet potato and zucchini mixture up to 24 hours in advance, just mix the cooled sweet potatoes and grated zucchini with coconut flour and seasonings. Cover and refrigerate the mixture until you’re ready to bake. When you’re prepared to enjoy them, simply shape the tots and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway for that golden crisp. This approach ensures that you have nutritious snacks ready to go, making busy weeknights a breeze without sacrificing quality or flavor!

Tips for the Best Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Moisture Matters: Always squeeze out as much liquid from the zucchini as possible. Excess moisture will make your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots soggy instead of crispy.
Cool Down: Ensure your sweet potatoes are completely cooled before mixing to maintain the right consistency and hold your mixture together better.
Consistent Sizes: Aim for uniformity when shaping your tots. This ensures they bake evenly, preventing some from being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
Spice It Up: Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices! They not only add flavor but can also make your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots even more exciting for the whole family.
Air Frying Perks: For a quicker cooking option, consider air frying. It takes just 10-15 minutes at 350°F for a perfectly crispy texture!

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots Recipe FAQs

What kind of sweet potatoes are best for this recipe?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using medium-sized, firm sweet potatoes. Look for those that are smooth and free of dark spots or blemishes. The sweeter the potato, the better your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots will taste!

How long can I store these tots in the fridge?
Absolutely! You can store your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to indulge again, just reheat them in the oven or toaster oven for a delightful crispiness.

Can I freeze Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots, and if so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze them! After baking, let the tots cool completely, then place them in a ziplock bag—remember to remove as much air as possible before sealing. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy them, just bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until crispy.

What happens if I don’t squeeze out the moisture from the zucchini?
It’s crucial to remove excess moisture from the zucchini! If you skip this step, you may end up with soggy Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots. Make sure to press the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure a crispy outcome.

Are these tots suitable for kids with allergies?
Great question! These Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are vegan, nut-free, and made with simple ingredients, making them a wonderful snack for kids, especially those with dietary restrictions. Just be sure to check for any specific allergies related to the ingredients used, such as coconut flour or any added spices.

Can I adjust the recipe for different diets?
Very! This recipe is versatile enough to be adapted for different diets. If you’re looking to make it gluten-free, simply ensure that the coconut flour you use is certified gluten-free. Additionally, you can substitute any of the seasonings to further tailor them to your family’s preferences while keeping them healthy!