If you love sweet potato pie but want an easier way to serve it, Sweet Potato Pie Bars are the perfect solution. With all the rich, spiced flavors of the classic dessert in a convenient bar form, this recipe is ideal for gatherings, holidays, or anytime you want a comforting treat. Follow this simple guide to create a dessert that’s as delicious as it is shareable.
Tools, Servings, and Time Needed
Tools Required
Mixing bowls
Spatula or spoon
Hand or stand mixer (optional)
Baking dish (rectangular, about 9×13 inches)
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife for slicing
Servings
This recipe yields approximately 12 bars.
Cooking Time
Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes: 2 cups, mashed (roasted or boiled and peeled)
Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup
Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup, melted
Evaporated Milk: 1/2 cup
Large Eggs: 2
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Ground Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon
Ground Ginger: 1/4 teaspoon
Pre-Baked Pie Crust: Enough to line a rectangular baking dish (homemade or store-bought)
Steps to Make Sweet Potato Pie Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking once your ingredients are prepared.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, and evaporated milk. Use a hand or stand mixer for a smoother consistency, or mix by hand until the ingredients are fully blended.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Spices
Crack the eggs into the sweet potato mixture one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Press the pre-baked pie crust into the bottom of a rectangular baking dish, ensuring it covers the surface evenly. Pour the sweet potato mixture over the crust, spreading it out with a spatula to create an even layer.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The filling should be set and slightly firm to the touch. Avoid overbaking to keep the bars moist and tender.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the pie bars to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to slice them into 12 evenly-sized bars. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife between slices.
Recommendations for Recipe Success
Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Roasting sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness, making the bars even more flavorful.
Avoid Overmixing: When adding the eggs and spices, mix just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
Pre-Bake the Crust: Ensure the crust is fully pre-baked before adding the filling to prevent sogginess.
Customize the Spices: Adjust the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to suit your taste preferences.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bars at room temperature or slightly warmed for the best flavor.
Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: Warm bars in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore their fresh-baked taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, canned sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh. Just make sure they’re drained and mashed before measuring. - What kind of pie crust works best?
A traditional pie crust works well, but you can also experiment with graham cracker crusts or shortbread crusts for a different texture. - Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut milk or almond milk in place of evaporated milk. - How do I know when the bars are done?
The filling should be set and slightly firm to the touch. If the center jiggles too much, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking frequently. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe by using a larger baking dish or two smaller ones. Adjust baking time as needed to ensure the filling is fully cooked.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato Pie Bars are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining rich, spiced flavors with the convenience of bar-style serving. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself, these bars are sure to impress. Simple to make and easy to share, they’re a perfect addition to your dessert repertoire. Try this recipe today and let the comforting flavors of sweet potatoes and warm spices brighten your table!