Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe

If you are craving a cozy, spiced dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining a tender almond flour crust with a silky, fragrant sweet potato filling, these bars offer all the beloved flavors of classic sweet potato pie but in a convenient, crowd-pleasing bar form. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, these bars deliver a perfect balance of sweet, earthy, and warmly spiced notes that will keep everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together harmoniously. From the nutty almond flour crust to the luscious, spice-kissed filling, each element is essential to achieving that perfect texture and rich flavor.

• 2 cups almond flour: Provides a naturally gluten-free, slightly nutty base that bakes up tender and crisp.
• 1 tablespoon tapioca starch: Acts as a binder, helping the crust hold together beautifully without heaviness.
• 1/4 cup maple syrup: Adds gentle sweetness and moisture to the crust, enhancing depth without overpowering.
• 4 tablespoons butter, diced: Helps create a flaky, buttery texture for the crust while enriching flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a floral sweetness that rounds out the crust’s notes perfectly.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Delivers warmth and subtle spice to the crust layer.
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies all the complementary flavors.
• 15 oz canned sweet potato puree: The star ingredient, creating the silky, orange-hued filling that’s both creamy and vibrant.
• 2/3 cup maple syrup: Sweetens the filling naturally, layering in rich, caramel-like notes.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweet potato’s natural flavors and melds with the warm spices.
• 2 eggs + 1 egg yolk, whisked: Provide structure and richness, ensuring the filling sets beautifully.
• 1/2 cup plain almond milk: Adds moisture and helps balance the dense texture of the filling.
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon: Infuses the filling with a comforting spiced aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger: Offers a gentle kick and earthiness that makes the filling unexpectedly exciting.
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a warm, nutty complexity to the mix.
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom: Introduces a fragrant, citrusy lift that brightens the spices.
• Small pinch of cloves: Gives depth with a slightly sweet, yet pungent note that ties all the spices together exquisitely.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees and lining an 8×8 pan with parchment paper for easy removal later on. In a food processor, blend almond flour, tapioca starch, maple syrup, cold diced butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sea salt until everything comes together in a sticky dough ball. You may need to scrape down the sides once to incorporate all the ingredients evenly. Press this dough firmly and evenly into your prepared pan. Bake the crust for 15 to 18 minutes until it turns a lovely light golden brown. This step is crucial for creating that wonderfully crisp base to balance the creamy filling.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Filling

While the crust bakes, prepare the filling by combining sweet potato puree, maple syrup, vanilla extract, whisked eggs and yolk, almond milk, and all the warming spices in a large bowl. Whisk everything thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and velvety with no lumps in sight. This ensures a perfectly silky texture once baked. The blend of spices here transforms the sweet potato into a flavor powerhouse that will have you hooked from the first bite.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Bars

Once your crust is cooled slightly, pour the luscious filling over it, spreading it gently to cover the entire pan. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles and help the filling settle evenly. Pop your bars into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The filling should be set but still have a slight jiggle — that texture will firm up as it cools. Patience here is key because the long bake time deepens the flavors wonderfully.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

After baking, allow the Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe to chill in the fridge for at least 6 to 8 hours, or preferably overnight. This resting period lets the filling fully set and the flavors to meld together, giving you bars that slice cleanly with a creamy, rich texture inside and a buttery crust beneath. Resist the temptation to dig in too early — the wait is worth it!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe

Garnishes

A small dollop of whipped cream on each bar is the classic finishing touch, adding a light, airy contrast to the dense filling. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar elevates the presentation and enhances the warm spice notes. For a little extra flair, try toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Side Dishes

To create a full dessert experience, serve these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a refreshing fruit compote such as cranberry or spiced apple. Their bright flavors and tartness cut through the richness beautifully. A cup of strong coffee or chai tea complements the spices perfectly if you want a comforting beverage pairing.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings or parties, arrange the Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe on a festive tray with edible flowers or fresh herbs like rosemary sprigs for an eye-catching centerpiece. You can also cut smaller bite-size squares for easy grab-and-go treats. Layering the bars between parchment paper in a decorative box makes a thoughtful homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These bars keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers just as delightful as the day they were baked. Just remember to bring them to room temperature or add a few seconds in the microwave for optimal texture before serving again.

Freezing

You can freeze the Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe for longer storage by wrapping individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

If you prefer warm bars, gently reheat slices in a microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a low oven (around 300 degrees) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as the filling can become dry or rubbery. Served with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, they taste fresh out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned sweet potato puree?

Absolutely! Just roast or boil peeled sweet potatoes until very soft, then puree them until smooth. You’ll want about 15 ounces of puree for this recipe. Using fresh sweet potatoes can add a fresher flavor, but canned puree keeps things consistent and saves time.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe is naturally gluten-free thanks to the almond flour and tapioca starch. It’s a great dessert option for those avoiding gluten while still enjoying a classic sweet potato pie flavor.

Can I substitute the maple syrup with honey or another sweetener?

Maple syrup is preferred for its deep flavor, but you can substitute honey 1:1 if you adjust for its more assertive taste. For other sweeteners, you may need to experiment with quantities, but the syrup’s liquid form helps with both sweetness and texture.

What if I don’t have tapioca starch? Can I use cornstarch instead?

Yes, cornstarch can be used as a substitute for tapioca starch in this recipe. It will still provide the necessary binding for the crust, although tapioca starch tends to offer a slightly lighter texture.

Can these bars be made vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine and replace eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer. Keep in mind, this may alter the texture slightly, making the filling less firm but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe is truly a showstopper for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of fall all year round. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps yield a dessert that feels special yet approachable, perfect for sharing with family and friends. I can’t wait for you to try it and add it to your rotation of favorite cozy treats!

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