Easy Sweet Potato Broccoli Fritters for Babies, Toddlers & Family Meals

These sweet potato broccoli fritters are a simple, nutrient-rich recipe that works for babies learning to eat, toddlers with adventurous palates, and busy family dinners. They’re soft enough to mash for younger babies, easily shaped for little hands, and tasty enough that older kids will happily take seconds. For more ideas on wholesome snacks, see healthy sweet treats for toddlers.

Why this recipe works

• Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and smooth texture, which helps picky eaters accept vegetables.
• Broccoli provides vitamin C, fiber, and folate, while binding with a little flour or egg keeps fritters soft enough for young mouths.
• Minimal seasoning keeps flavors baby-friendly and safe for early eaters.

Ingredients (makes about 12 small fritters)

• 1 medium sweet potato (about 1 to 1¼ cups mashed)
• 1 cup finely chopped or lightly steamed broccoli florets
• 1 small egg (or 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water for egg-free)
• 3–4 tbsp plain flour (or gluten-free flour / oat flour)
• 1–2 tbsp finely grated mild cheese (optional)
• 1 tsp mild oil for frying (e.g., olive or avocado oil)
• Pinch of mild spice like cinnamon (optional, for sweet note) or a pinch of salt if serving to older toddlers/adults

Notes: For babies under 12 months, skip added salt. Use pasteurized cheese for babies and consider egg alternatives if there are allergies.

Method

1. Prepare the sweet potato: peel, chop and boil or steam until very soft (about 15–20 minutes). Mash until smooth and let cool slightly.
2. Steam or finely chop the broccoli. If steaming, cook just until tender so color and nutrients are preserved; finely chop after cooking or pulse in a food processor.
3. In a bowl, mix mashed sweet potato, broccoli, egg (or flax mixture), flour, and cheese if using. The batter should hold together but remain soft — add more flour a teaspoon at a time if too loose.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium-low heat and add oil. Spoon a tablespoon of batter per fritter, flatten gently with the back of the spoon.
5. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden and set through. Keep the heat moderate so the centers cook without burning the outside.
6. Drain briefly on paper towels and cool to a safe temperature before serving to babies.

Texture & serving suggestions by age

• 6–9 months (baby-led introduction, depending on readiness): Mash the cooked fritter into small pieces or serve a softened edge for self-feeding. Ensure pieces are small, soft, and manageable.
• 9–12 months: Offer small, hand-sized fritters with soft centers. Remove any firm or crispy edges if needed.
• Toddlers & family: Serve whole with yogurt dip, applesauce, or a mild tomato-based dipping sauce. Add a side of steamed veggies or fruit.

Variations and add-ins

• Make them sweeter: Add a little cinnamon or mashed banana for toddlers who prefer sweeter flavors.
• Boost protein: Stir in finely shredded chicken or mashed lentils for older toddlers and adults.
• Make them dairy-free: Omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Oven-baked option: Place spoonfuls on a lined baking tray and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Storage & reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in a moderate oven until warmed through, or defrost in the fridge and pan-fry briefly to restore texture.

Safety tips

• Always let fritters cool to a safe temperature for babies and cut into small pieces appropriate for their chewing skills.
• Watch for allergies when introducing eggs, dairy, or new grains—introduce one new ingredient at a time and observe for reactions.
• Use softening techniques (extra mashing or steaming) for younger babies and to avoid choking hazards.

Feeding ideas & pairing

• Serve with a mild yogurt dip mixed with mashed fruit for naturally sweet flavor.
• Pair with soft-cooked fruit or a vegetable puree for a balanced plate. You can also read about the benefits of apples for toddlers to find complementary fruit pairings.

Conclusion

If you want a simple plated option that’s gentle for babies yet satisfying for the whole family, these sweet potato broccoli fritters are an excellent choice. For a different take on a similar combination, try the 5 ingredient sweet potato and broccoli medallions, or explore ideas for quicker cooks with Quick Broccoli Fritters for inspiration.