Sweet Potato Pie Bars

Sweet Potato Pie Bars are the ultimate dessert for fall, combining a delicious graham cracker crust with a smooth sweet potato filling and topped with fluffy vegan marshmallows. These bars are perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or any cozy get-together, ensuring everyone will love this unique twist on classic pie. With their vibrant flavor and delightful textures, Sweet Potato Pie Bars are sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes and warm spices creates a rich, comforting taste that defines fall.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or any festive occasion where you want to impress guests.
• Customizable Toppings: Top with whipped cream or your favorite nut sprinkle to personalize your bars.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored, making them a convenient option for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the Sweet Potato Pie Bars recipe, gather these essential tools to ensure your baking goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Helps create a fine crumb for the graham cracker crust quickly and efficiently.
• Electric mixer: Ensures even mixing of batters and whipping egg whites to perfection for a fluffy topping.

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Ingredients

To make these delightful Sweet Potato Pie Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Crust

• 18 (270 grams) full graham crackers
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 12 tablespoons (169 grams) unsalted butter (melted)

For the Filling

• 2 cups (16 ounces or 454 grams) fresh sweet potato puree (not canned)
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups (356 grams) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (119 grams) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

For the Topping

• 2 large egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120 grams) light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers until finely crushed.
• Combine the crushed crackers with granulated sugar and salt in a mixing bowl.
• Stir in melted butter until evenly combined.
• Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

• In another bowl, whisk together fresh sweet potato puree, sugar, eggs, milk, cream, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves until smooth.
• Pour this filling over the pre-baked crust.

Step 3: Bake the Bars

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 45–50 minutes or until set. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

• While baking, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
• Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
• In a saucepan over low heat, combine corn syrup and water; bring to a gentle boil.
• Remove from heat and slowly drizzle this syrup into beaten egg whites while mixing continuously.
• Fold in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Finish Baking

• Spread topping over baked sweet potato mixture evenly.
• Return to oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until lightly golden on top.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

• Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade Sweet Potato Pie Bars!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie Bars

Sweet Potato Pie Bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these bars can be paired with different toppings and sides to enhance their flavor.

Classic Whipped Cream

• Top your Sweet Potato Pie Bars with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream for a rich and creamy contrast.

Toasted Nuts

• Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and nutty flavor, which complements the sweetness of the pie bars.

Ice Cream Scoop

• Serve warm Sweet Potato Pie Bars with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent treat that’s perfect for fall.

Caramel Drizzle

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce over the bars adds a sweet finishing touch that enhances their flavor profile.

Fresh Berries

• Pair with fresh raspberries or blueberries for a tart balance to the sweetness, making each bite even more refreshing.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Pie Bars

Creating the perfect Sweet Potato Pie Bars requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out just right.

• Use fresh sweet potatoes: Freshly baked sweet potato puree will give your filling the best texture and flavor compared to canned versions.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the bars to chill in the fridge for at least two hours will help them set properly, making cutting easier and enhancing their flavors.

• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your oven as baking times may vary. The filling should be slightly firm but not overcooked.

• Experiment with spices: Customize the spice blend according to your taste; adding nutmeg or allspice can give it an extra kick.

• Be mindful of crust thickness: Ensure your graham cracker crust is evenly pressed into the pan so it cooks thoroughly without burning.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Pie Bars

Sweet Potato Pie Bars can be complemented with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor pairs well with the sweetness of the pie bars and adds a nice crunch.

2. Savory Green Bean Casserole: A classic side dish that offers creamy texture and rich taste, making it a perfect contrast.

3. Maple Glazed Carrots: These sweet carrots bring out similar flavors found in sweet potatoes while providing a colorful addition to your plate.

4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery mashed potatoes can create a comforting balance alongside the dessert’s sweetness.

5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with seasonal vegetables offers freshness and nutrition, balancing out richer flavors.

6. Spiced Apple Compote: This warm compote brings fruity notes that complement the spiced filling of the pie bars beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid using canned sweet potatoes. Fresh sweet potato puree has a richer flavor and better texture. Always opt for fresh ingredients.
• Don’t skip the crust preparation. Properly mix and press the graham cracker crust; this ensures it holds together once baked.
• Forgetting to measure accurately can ruin your Sweet Potato Pie Bars. Use standard measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts.
• Ignoring the baking time can affect the final product. Keep an eye on your bars in the oven, as overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
• Not allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting can result in messy slices. Patience is key for perfect presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Sweet Potato Pie Bars in an airtight container.
• They can last in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Sweet Potato Pie Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sweet Potato Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each bar for 20-30 seconds on medium power, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Sweet Potato Pie Bars gluten-free?

You can substitute graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour crust or gluten-free cookies for the crust.

Can I use another type of sweetener in Sweet Potato Pie Bars?

Yes, feel free to experiment with maple syrup or agave syrup instead of granulated sugar for a different sweetness profile.

What is the best way to prepare sweet potato puree?

Bake whole sweet potatoes in their skins at 400°F (200°C) until tender, then scoop out the flesh and mash or blend until smooth.

Can I add toppings to my Sweet Potato Pie Bars?

Absolutely! Consider adding nuts, whipped cream, or even chocolate drizzle to enhance flavor and presentation.

Final Thoughts

Sweet Potato Pie Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their creamy filling paired with a crunchy crust makes them a delightful dessert that everyone will love. Feel free to customize your bars with different spices or toppings to make them uniquely yours!