Mbatata (Malawian Sweet Potato Cookies)

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Step 2

In a large bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes and melted butter.

Step 3

Add flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until a soft dough forms.**

Step 4

Add the raisins and mix until incorporated.

Step 5

Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface and knead it a few times until the dough is solid enough to roll out.

Step 6

Roll the dough 1/2 inch thick and cut the cookies with a cookie cutter (heart shaped is traditional). Place the cut cookies onto a parchment lined baking sheet. Re-roll and cut any remaining dough, until all the dough has been used.

Step 7

Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, until firm and slightly springy when touched.

Step 8

Remove the cookies from oven and let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes.

Step 9

Remove the cookies from the baking sheet to finish cooling on a wire rack.