If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug from the South, this Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. These bars combine the rich, velvety sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes with a buttery graham cracker crust, all spiced just right for that perfect balance between sweet and savory. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday gathering or a simple family treat, these bars deliver that nostalgic pumpkin-pie vibe with an easy-to-handle twist that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients in this Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe are wonderfully straightforward yet come together to create magic. Each component plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the crunchy, buttery crust to the creamy, spiced filling that is the star of the show.
- Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation for a crisp and slightly sweet crust that holds everything together beautifully.
- Brown sugar: Adds a deep caramel sweetness to both crust and filling that enhances the natural sweet potato flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Melted to combine with crumbs for a rich, tender crust; be sure to use unsalted so you can control the saltiness.
- Mashed sweet potatoes: The heart of the filling, providing creaminess and vibrant color—roasted sweet potatoes give the best flavor.
- Granulated sugar: To brighten up the sweetness and add balance to the warm spices.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings that classic autumn warmth and depth to the filling’s spice blend.
- Ground nutmeg: A subtle hint of nutty spice that complements sweet potatoes effortlessly.
- Ground ginger: Adds a gentle kick that rounds out the spice profile.
- Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all those flavors without overpowering the sweetness.
- Large eggs: Binders for the filling that add richness and help it set perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: A sweet aromatic touch that lifts the whole dessert.
- Evaporated milk: Provides creaminess and smooth texture; don’t substitute or the bars won’t be quite right.
- Whipped cream or mini marshmallows (optional): For serving, these toppings add extra indulgence and festive flair.
How to Make Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the crust
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your pan, forming a firm, even crust. Bake it for 8 to 10 minutes to set and develop a slight golden color—this baking time brings a lovely toasty note to your crust.
Step 2: Make the filling
In a large bowl, combine your mashed sweet potatoes with both brown and granulated sugars to create a luscious sweet base. Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt, which bring that warm, inviting spice blend. Crack in the eggs and add vanilla extract along with evaporated milk, whisking until your filling is silky and fully combined. This mixture is the creamy counterpart to your crisp crust and carries the beautiful flavor that sets this Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe apart.
Step 3: Assemble and bake
Pour the filling over your slightly cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even finish. Bake in the oven for 40 to 45 minutes or until the center is mostly set—check with a toothpick; it should come out mostly clean but still moist. This baking step allows the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up without drying out.
Step 4: Cool and chill
Once baked, allow your bars to cool completely at room temperature. Then, pop them into the refrigerator for at least two hours to fully set. Chilling is crucial because it helps the bars slice neatly and lets those flavors deepen wonderfully before serving.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing your Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe, simplicity is charming. A generous dollop of fresh whipped cream adds lightness and creaminess that complements the rich filling. Mini marshmallows toasted lightly on top provide a nostalgic, sweet crunch that’s especially fun during the holidays. Either choice heightens the overall experience without overwhelming the bars themselves.
Side Dishes
These bars pair beautifully with a hot cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee, making them perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or after-dinner treat. If you want to serve them as part of a larger dessert spread, consider adding a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a small plate of fresh fruit like orange slices or pomegranate seeds to brighten the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, cut your Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a serving platter sprinkled with chopped pecans or crushed ginger snaps. You can also drizzle a bit of caramel or maple syrup on top to add unexpected sweetness and visual appeal. These little changes turn a homemade favorite into a show-stopping dessert centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your bars have cooled and chilled, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days. This makes them an excellent dessert to prepare a day ahead of your gathering without any stress.
Freezing
If you want to keep Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe on hand longer, they freeze beautifully. Cut into individual bars and wrap each one in plastic wrap, then place them all in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing their delightful texture or flavor.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen bars later, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then warm briefly in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 to 15 minutes if you prefer them slightly warm. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the filling from becoming watery. Serve with your favorite topping and enjoy that freshly baked feeling again.
FAQs
Can I substitute regular milk for evaporated milk in this recipe?
While evaporated milk adds a distinct creaminess and slightly caramelized flavor, you can substitute whole milk in a pinch, but the filling might be less rich and slightly thinner. For best results, stick to evaporated milk.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The original crust uses graham cracker crumbs, which typically contain gluten. However, you can make this Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers or an alternative gluten-free crust.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned sweet potatoes can be used, but fresh roasted sweet potatoes usually provide better flavor and texture. If using canned, be sure to drain and mash them well before mixing.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for a filling that is mostly set but still slightly jiggly in the center. When a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs, your bars are ready.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make the Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe vegan, you would need to replace eggs, butter, and evaporated milk with vegan alternatives, such as flax eggs, vegan butter, and canned coconut milk. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might differ from the classic version.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe that captures the cozy spirit of fall and holiday celebrations in every bite. It’s simple enough for weeknight baking yet elegant enough to impress guests, making it a staple you’ll turn to again and again. Don’t hesitate to try it yourself—your kitchen will soon be filled with the wonderful scent of warm spices and sweet potatoes, promising a dessert that feels like home.
Print
Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 9 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously spiced Sweet Potato Pie Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy sweet potato filling, perfect for fall and holiday desserts. These bars are easy to make, baked to perfection, and can be topped with whipped cream or mini marshmallows for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup evaporated milk
Optional topping:
- Whipped cream or mini marshmallows for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easy.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust layer.
- Bake the crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes until set and fragrant. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly to prepare for the filling.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until smooth and combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and evaporated milk, and whisk together until fully blended and silky.
- Combine and bake: Pour the sweet potato filling evenly over the pre-baked crust. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer. Bake the assembled bars for 40–45 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
- Cool and chill: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up before slicing into 9 bars.
- Serve: Optionally top each bar with whipped cream or mini marshmallows before serving for an extra festive touch.
Notes
- Roasting sweet potatoes instead of boiling them enhances their natural flavor and sweetness.
- These bars can be made a day in advance and stored refrigerated to develop flavor and texture.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
