Sweet Potato Pie Bars

Why Make This Recipe

Sweet Potato Pie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply a cozy night in. Not only do they taste great, but they are also easy to make. If you love pie but want something a bit more portable, these bars are the perfect solution!

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie Bars

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed vanilla wafers)
1/2 cup melted butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt
Whipped cream or marshmallow fluff (for topping, optional)
Chopped pecans (for topping, optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar to create the crust. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the mixture is smooth.
Pour the filling over the crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
If desired, top with whipped cream, marshmallow fluff, or chopped pecans. Cut into bars and enjoy!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie Bars

Sweet Potato Pie Bars can be served warm or cold. You can add a scoop of whipped cream or a dollop of marshmallow fluff on top for extra sweetness. These bars pair well with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a wonderful dessert option at any time of the day.

How to Store Sweet Potato Pie Bars

To store your Sweet Potato Pie Bars, place them in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the bars for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.

Tips to Make Sweet Potato Pie Bars

Make sure to mash the sweet potatoes until very smooth for the best texture.
If you want an extra layer of flavor, try toasting the graham cracker crust lightly before adding the filling.
Adjust the spices to your liking; adding more nutmeg or cinnamon can enhance the flavor.

Variation

You can add chocolate chips to the filling for a sweeter twist. You can also substitute regular milk for the evaporated milk if needed, but it may change the creaminess of the bars.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes. Just make sure to drain them well and mash them before using.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the filling is set in the center. You can use a toothpick to check; it should come out clean.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies for the crust to make them gluten-free.