A Crowd-Pleasing Twist on a Classic Dessert
These Sweet Potato Pie Bars offer all the comforting flavors of the classic pie in a portable, easy-to-serve bar form. With a buttery crust and a creamy, spiced sweet potato filling, they’re perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy treat at home.
-Ingredients
For the Filling:
2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (roasted or boiled and peeled)
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
½ cup evaporated milk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
For the Crust:
1 pre-baked pie crust (homemade or store-bought, pressed into a rectangular baking dish)
-Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, and evaporated milk. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Eggs and Spices:
Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to enhance the flavor.
4. Assemble the Bars:
Press the pre-baked pie crust firmly into a rectangular baking dish, ensuring an even layer across the bottom and slightly up the sides.
Pour the sweet potato filling over the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
5. Bake the Bars:
Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
6. Cool and Slice:
Allow the pie to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, slice into 12 bars for easy serving.
-Serving Suggestions
Toppings: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel for an extra indulgent touch.
Pairings: Serve with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai for the perfect autumn treat.
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Easy to Serve: No need for slicing and serving pie slices—these bars are perfect for parties and gatherings.
2. Rich and Creamy: The sweet potato filling is spiced just right and perfectly creamy.
3. Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars can be prepared a day in advance and stored until ready to serve.
-Pro Tips for Success
1. Smooth Filling: Use a hand mixer or food processor to ensure the sweet potato filling is ultra-smooth.
2. Don’t Skip Pre-Baking: Pre-baking the crust ensures it stays firm and doesn’t become soggy from the filling.
3. Cool Completely: Letting the bars cool completely makes slicing easier and neater.
-Variations
Pecan Crunch Topping: Add a streusel topping made of chopped pecans, brown sugar, and butter before baking.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free crust to make this dessert accessible to everyone.
Maple Twist: Swap out some of the sugar for maple syrup for a deeper flavor.
-FAQs
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes! Canned sweet potatoes or yams (drained) work just as well. Mash them thoroughly before mixing.
2. How do I store these bars?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.
3. Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
-Nutritional Information
Calories per bar: 245 kcal
Servings: 12
-The Inspiration Behind This Recipe
These Sweet Potato Pie Bars take the nostalgia of a traditional sweet potato pie and turn it into an easy-to-serve treat. Perfect for busy holidays or casual get-togethers, this recipe allows you to enjoy the comforting flavors without the fuss of slicing a pie.
-Conclusion
Rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced, these Sweet Potato Pie Bars are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Whether you’re making them for Thanksgiving or a weekend treat, they’re sure to become a favorite. Bake a batch today and share the joy with your loved ones!
