If you are searching for a delightful treat that perfectly blends cozy fall flavors with a touch of elegance, the Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. These bite-sized wonders bring together tender roasted sweet potatoes, creamy cinnamon-spiced cream cheese, and crunchy candied pecans bursting with warm spices. Every element harmonizes in a way that feels both comforting and special, making them ideal for holiday gatherings, afternoon snacks, or when you simply want to indulge in something sweet yet wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Recipe lies in its few simple ingredients, each playing a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the natural sweetness of maple syrup to the cozy aroma of cinnamon, these essentials transform humble components into an unforgettable bite.
- Sweet potatoes: The base of our bites, sliced into rounds for beautiful presentation and caramelized roasting.
- Maple syrup: Divided into two parts, it sweetens and glazes the sweet potatoes perfectly.
- Pecans: Finely chopped to create crunchy, spiced candied toppings that add texture and richness.
- Egg whites: Help the candied pecans adhere to the sugar and spices without the heaviness of yolks.
- Granulated and light brown sugar: A sweet combo that caramelizes beautifully for the pecans and adds depth to the cream cheese filling.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that weaves warmth into each layer—from pecans to cream cheese to sweet potato.
- Pure vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the natural sweetness and lifts the overall flavor profile.
- Cream cheese: Rich, smooth, and fluffy, it provides a luscious contrast to the roasted sweet potatoes and crunchy pecans.
How to Make Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Candy the Pecans
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C) so it’s ready for the pecans. Whisk together the egg whites, water, and vanilla extract in a bowl until frothy—this mixture acts like a glue, helping the sugar and spices stick to the chopped pecans. In a separate bowl, blend granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and cinnamon before combining with the nuts. Spread the coated pecans evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through. This slow roasting caramelizes the sugars and toasts the pecans to perfection, so be patient and let them cool completely once done.
Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) to get those sweet potatoes nicely roasted. Toss the sweet potato rounds in half of the maple syrup to infuse them with gentle sweetness before arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, flip them over, brush on the remaining maple syrup, and roast for another 15 minutes. The result? Soft, tender, and beautifully glazed sweet potatoes that serve as the perfect foundation for this recipe.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
While the potatoes cool, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Slowly add brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, blending all the ingredients until the filling becomes fluffy and well combined. This mixture brings lusciousness and a hint of spice that complements the sweet potatoes superbly.
Step 4: Assemble the Bites
Spoon or pipe the creamy filling onto each cooled sweet potato round, creating a generous layer that’s both visually appealing and utterly delicious. Toss the cooled candied pecans with a teaspoon of maple syrup to add a sticky glaze and sprinkle them generously atop each bite. This final touch provides a delightful crunch and sweet-spiced finish.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
These bites can be served warm, allowing the cream cheese to soften slightly, or at room temperature for a firmer texture. Arrange them beautifully on a platter or tray, and get ready for compliments because their combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a dash of extra cinnamon or a few fresh herb leaves like thyme or rosemary can lift the presentation and add subtle aromatic notes. A light dusting of powdered sugar also works as a pretty finishing touch that enhances sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines as an appetizer or dessert on its own, but you can serve it alongside a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the sweetness, or pair it with a warm spiced cider or chai tea for an extra cozy vibe during chilly days.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange these sweet potato pie bites on decorative platters layered with autumn leaves or edible flowers to celebrate the season. You can also serve them on individual spoons or mini plates as part of a tasting menu, making them a stunning finger food that guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, store the candied pecans separately and add them just before serving to preserve their crunch.
Freezing
While the sweet potato rounds freeze well, the assembled bites do not fare as nicely because the cream cheese filling can become watery upon thawing. Freeze the roasted sweet potato slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Reheat and assemble fresh for optimal results.
Reheating
Reheat the roasted sweet potatoes in a warm oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Then, add the cream cheese topping and pecans just before serving to recreate the fresh experience of the Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pecans, though pecans provide a uniquely rich and buttery flavor that pairs so well with sweet potato. Just chop them finely and candy them in the same way.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I make these bites vegan?
You can make some substitutions like using vegan cream cheese and maple syrup, but note that the texture and flavor will be a bit different. Also, you might want to replace egg whites in the candied pecan mixture with aquafaba for a vegan-friendly version.
What’s the best way to pipe the cream cheese filling?
Use a piping bag fitted with a round or star tip for a neat presentation. If you don’t have one, a small spoon works just fine and adds a charming homemade feel to the bites.
Are these good for holiday parties?
They are perfect! Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Recipe combines festive flavors and textures that guests adore, making them a showstopping appetizer or dessert for any celebration.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say you haven’t truly experienced fall flavors until you’ve savored these Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Recipe. They’re simple to make, beautiful to present, and utterly delicious to eat. Whether you’re inviting friends over or craving a cozy indulgence, these bites are sure to delight and inspire many repeat requests in your kitchen. Go ahead, give them a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightful Sweet Potato Pie Bites featuring roasted sweet potato rounds topped with a creamy cinnamon-spiced cream cheese filling and crunchy candied pecans. These bite-sized treats combine the warm flavors of maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla, making them perfect for holiday parties or dessert gatherings.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Base
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 4 tbsp maple syrup (divided)
Candied Pecans
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp egg whites
- ¼ tsp water
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Candy the Pecans: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). In a bowl, whisk together egg whites, ¼ tsp water, and ½ tsp vanilla extract until frothy. In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar, ¼ cup brown sugar, and 1½ tsp ground cinnamon. Stir the chopped pecans into the egg white mixture, then fold in the sugar blend until evenly coated. Spread the mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. Remove and allow to cool completely.
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato slices with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup until evenly coated. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, flip each slice, brush with the remaining 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from oven and let cool.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add ¼ cup light brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the filling is fluffy and well combined.
- Assemble the Bites: Using a spoon or piping bag, top each cooled sweet potato round with a generous dollop of the cream cheese filling. Then, toss the cooled candied pecans with 1 teaspoon maple syrup to enhance stickiness and sprinkle them atop each bite.
- Serve: Arrange the assembled sweet potato pie bites on a platter. Serve warm or at room temperature. Optionally garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon or fresh herbs for elevated presentation.
Notes
- Ensure sweet potatoes are sliced evenly for uniform roasting.
- The egg whites help the sugar and spices adhere to the pecans for a perfect candy coating.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling texture.
- These bites can be prepared in advance and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving.
- For a vegan variation, substitute cream cheese and egg whites with plant-based alternatives.
