These creamy, spiced sweet potato bars sit on a buttery graham cracker crust—perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or anytime you crave a handheld twist on classic sweet potato pie!
Ingredients (Makes 9-12 bars)
For the Crust
- 1½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs (or vanilla wafers)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 2 cups (450g) mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large, roasted or boiled)
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (120ml) evaporated milk (or heavy cream)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp (28g) melted butter
For the Whipped Cream (Optional)
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 tbsp (15g) powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
(Optional toppings: caramel drizzle, pecans, marshmallow fluff!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment.
- Mix graham crumbs + sugar + cinnamon + melted butter.
- Press into pan; bake 8-10 mins. Cool.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Whisk mashed sweet potatoes + sugars + eggs + evaporated milk + vanilla + spices + salt until smooth.
- Stir in melted butter.
3. Bake the Bars
- Pour filling over crust; bake 35-40 mins until set.
- Cool 1 hour, then refrigerate 2+ hours for clean slices.
4. Add Toppings & Serve
- Whip cream with powdered sugar + vanilla until stiff peaks.
- Slice bars; top with whipped cream, caramel, or pecans.
FAQs & Tips
Q: Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
✅ Yes! Drain well and use 15 oz canned sweet potatoes.
Q: Why roast instead of boil sweet potatoes?
➡️ Roasting deepens flavor (400°F for 45-60 mins until tender).
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
✅ Use GF graham crackers or almond flour crust (1½ cups almond flour + 3 tbsp butter + 2 tbsp sugar).
Q: How to store leftovers?
- Fridge: Up to 4 days (cover tightly).
- Freeze: Up to 2 months (thaw in fridge).
Q: Can I use pumpkin instead?
✅ Yes! Swap sweet potato for pumpkin purée (same amount).
Serving Ideas
🎄 Perfect for:
- Thanksgiving dessert trays
- Christmas cookie exchanges
- Fall brunch buffets
🍂 Pair with:
- Spiced chai latte
- Vanilla ice cream
- Candied pecans
Nutrition (per bar): ~250 kcal | Servings: 9-12
These bars are velvety, warmly spiced, and irresistible—like pie, but easier to share! 😍
Love texture? Add ½ cup chopped pecans to the crust or filling! 🌟
