Sweet Potato Pie Bars: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert

Sweet Potato Pie Bars are a delightful twist on a classic dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, I find myself craving the rich, spiced flavors of sweet potatoes, which have been a staple in Southern cuisine for generations. These bars not only capture the essence of traditional sweet potato pie but also offer a convenient, portable option that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.

What I love most about Sweet Potato Pie Bars is their incredible taste and texture. The creamy filling, infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, sits atop a buttery, crumbly crust that melts in your mouth. They are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a favorite for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these bars are sure to impress and satisfy your cravings!

Ingredients:

• For the crust:
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• For the filling:
• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• For the topping (optional):
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• Whipped cream for serving

Preparing the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking the crust and filling together.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender crust.
5. Once the dough comes together, press it evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure to create an even layer, as this will be the base for your sweet potato filling.
6. Prick the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up while baking. This step is crucial for achieving a nice, flat crust.
7. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking.
8. Once baked, remove the crust from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Preparing the Filling

1. While the crust is cooling, it’s time to prepare the sweet potato filling. If you haven’t already, peel and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a pot of water until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the sweet potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, mash them in a large mixing bowl until smooth. You can use a potato masher or a fork for this step.
3. Add the brown sugar, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix everything together until the filling is smooth and well combined. I like to use a hand mixer for this, but a whisk works just fine too.
4. Once the filling is ready, pour it over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This ensures that every bite has that delicious sweet potato flavor.

Cooking Process

1. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges may puff up slightly, but that’s perfectly normal.
2. Once baked, remove the sweet potato pie bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time helps the filling to firm up a bit more, making it easier to cut into bars.
3. If you’re adding a topping, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the top of the filling while it’s still warm. This adds a lovely crunch and flavor contrast to the creamy filling.

Assembling and

Conclusion:

In summary, these Sweet Potato Pie Bars are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a deliciously unique dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and spice. The creamy filling, combined with the buttery crust, creates a delightful treat that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you serve them at a holiday gathering, a cozy family dinner, or simply as a sweet snack, these bars are versatile enough to fit any occasion. For a fun twist, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch, or drizzle some caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or cardamom, to customize the taste to your liking. I encourage you to give this Sweet Potato Pie Bars recipe a try and share your experience with me! I would love to hear how they turned out for you and any variations you might have tried. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful process of baking these scrumptious bars. Happy baking!

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