Name: Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed vanilla wafers); ½ cup melted butter; ¼ cup brown sugar; 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes); ½ cup brown sugar; 2 eggs; ½ cup evaporated milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp nutmeg; ¼ tsp salt; Whipped cream or marshmallow fluff; Chopped pecans

If you’re craving a cozy twist on a classic comfort dessert, these Sweet Potato Pie Bars are about to steal your heart. With a buttery, golden crust, dreamy sweet potato filling, and optional toppings that beg for a celebratory dollop, this is a recipe that brings everything you love about pie—lifted into a snackable, shareable bar. Whether you serve them at holidays, potlucks, or just for a weeknight treat, Sweet Potato Pie Bars deliver warm spices, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and pure delicious nostalgia in every bite.

Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Sweet Potato Pie Bars is how simple these ingredients are, yet each one plays an important role in developing deep flavor, creamy filling, and that irresistible crumbly crust. Nothing fancy here—just a handful of essentials with big impact!

Graham cracker crumbs (or crushed vanilla wafers): These form the base, adding just the right crunch and subtle sweetness for the crust.
Melted butter: Essential for binding the crust and adding a rich, buttery flavor throughout.
Brown sugar: Used in both the crust and filling, it brings a touch of caramel-like sweetness.
Mashed sweet potatoes: The star of the show—make sure they’re cooked and mashed until creamy for the silkiest filling.
Eggs: These give structure and help achieve that custardy texture in every bite.
Evaporated milk: It adds creaminess and a slightly nutty flavor that perfectly complements sweet potatoes.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash for warmth and extra aroma that pulls the whole filling together.
Cinnamon: This spice elevates every bite with a cozy, inviting hint of warmth.
Nutmeg: Adds depth and a fragrant note that partners beautifully with cinnamon and sweet potato.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and brighten the flavors.
Whipped cream or marshmallow fluff (optional): For a cloud-like finish atop each bar—totally next-level!
Chopped pecans (optional): Add some crunch and a toasty, nutty topping if you like a little extra texture.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting a little hang over the sides for easy bar removal later. This small prep step ensures your Sweet Potato Pie Bars will lift out smoothly and neatly once they’re done baking.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker (or vanilla wafer) crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until everything is moistened and resembles wet sand—this is the magic mixture that will keep your base firm, buttery, and a little chewy. Press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan, really compacting it for the best results. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly; this keeps it from getting soggy once you add the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the crust cools, grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Aim for a smooth, velvety consistency—if you see lumps, keep mixing! This mixture is the heart and soul of your Sweet Potato Pie Bars, giving them that classic, autumn-inspired flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Pour the sweet potato filling over your baked crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Slide the pan back into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the center looks set (no jiggle in the middle) and a toothpick comes out mostly clean. This ensures your bars slice beautifully and hold their lovely layers.

Step 5: Cool, Slice, and Top

Allow your Sweet Potato Pie Bars to cool completely in the pan—patience pays off for perfect slices! Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment handles, cut into bars, and add a generous swirl of whipped cream, a glossy dollop of marshmallow fluff, or a scattering of chopped pecans. Each topping takes these bars from delightful to downright irresistible.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie Bars

Garnishes

A good garnish makes Sweet Potato Pie Bars feel extra-special. Try topping each bar with freshly whipped cream for a dreamy, cloud-like effect, or go classic with gooey marshmallow fluff for a nod to holiday casseroles. For crunch, a sprinkle of chopped pecans is unbeatable—toast them lightly first for even more flavor!

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with some fresh fruit (think orange slices or berries) for a lively contrast, or serve alongside a mug of hot spiced tea, coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. If you’re offering them as part of a dessert spread, they shine next to chocolate brownies and fruit tarts, playing off the richness with their homey warmth.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful and arrange your Sweet Potato Pie Bars on a wooden board with bowls of toppings (nuts, chocolate shavings, different whipped creams) so everyone can decorate their own. For parties, cut them into tiny squares for bite-sized treats. As a showstopper, stack a few bars on a plate, drizzle with caramel sauce, and finish with a dusting of cinnamon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Sweet Potato Pie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep fresh and moist for 3-4 days, so you can treat yourself all week long! The bars actually taste even better after chilling overnight as the flavors settle and the texture becomes even silkier.

Freezing

To freeze, place the fully cooled bars (without whipped cream or marshmallow fluff toppings) in a single layer in an airtight container or zip-top freezer bag. Separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking. They’ll freeze beautifully for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

To gently restore that just-baked touch, warm individual bars for 10-15 seconds in the microwave. If you want to crisp up the crust, pop them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. Always wait to add toppings until after reheating for the best results.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to drain and mash them well. Canned sweet potatoes can be a fantastic shortcut for Sweet Potato Pie Bars and still give you great texture and flavor.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking pan. Keep an eye on the baking time; you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes, checking until the center is set.

How do I know when the bars are baked through?

Look for a firm, slightly puffed filling with the edges pulling just away from the sides. A toothpick should come out mostly clean—don’t worry if the very center is a touch soft; it will set as it cools.

Can I make Sweet Potato Pie Bars ahead of time for a party?

Sweet Potato Pie Bars are the definition of make-ahead friendly. Assemble and bake a day in advance, store in the fridge, and slice just before serving. They hold up beautifully and are extra flavorful the next day.

What can I use instead of graham crackers for the crust?

Crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits work just as well and give a lovely sweet base. You could even try Biscoff cookies for a spicy, caramel-flavored twist!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that tastes like a hug and comes together with minimal fuss, Sweet Potato Pie Bars are it. Their luscious filling, buttery crust, and irresistible toppings will win over any crowd—even if you weren’t a sweet potato fan before! Trust me, once you bake these, they’ll become your go-to treat for any occasion, so don’t wait—give them a try and taste just how comforting homemade can be.