There’s something about Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pie Bars that feels like a warm hug from home. Rich, creamy, and infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, these bars take everything you love about traditional sweet potato pie and transform it into an easy-to-serve, sliceable treat. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or when you’re craving a little taste of Southern comfort!
Let’s get baking—these pie bars are about to become your new favorite dessert!
Why You’ll Love These Sweet Potato Pie Bars
- Easier than pie – No need to roll out and shape pie dough; these bars bake up beautifully in one pan.
- Rich and creamy filling – Silky-smooth sweet potato custard with warm spices makes every bite irresistible.
- Perfect for gatherings – Slice them up and serve at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time of year.
- Make-ahead friendly – Bake them in advance and store them in the fridge for an easy, stress-free dessert.
What Do These Bars Taste Like?
Imagine the classic flavors of Southern sweet potato pie—sweet, spiced, and buttery—transformed into a convenient bar form. The filling is velvety and packed with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, while the crust adds the perfect flaky contrast. Each bite melts in your mouth and pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream!
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or whisk
- 9×9-inch baking pan
- Spatula
- Fork or potato masher (for mashing sweet potatoes)
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
- Crust options: Swap the traditional pie crust for a graham cracker crust or even a shortbread base for extra flavor.
- Dairy-free: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of evaporated milk.
- Extra spices: Add a pinch of cloves or ginger for a deeper, spicier flavor.
- Topping ideas: Try a pecan streusel topping or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil or bake the sweet potatoes until fork-tender, then mash them until smooth.
2. Make the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and well combined.
3. Assemble and Bake
- Roll out the pie crust and press it into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Pour the sweet potato mixture over the crust, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
4. Cool and Serve
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing.
- Serve as is, or top with whipped cream, pecans, or a drizzle of maple syrup!
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Pie Bars
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream – The cold creaminess pairs perfectly with the warm spices.
- Fresh whipped cream – A classic topping that adds lightness.
- A cup of coffee or spiced tea – The warm, earthy flavors complement these bars beautifully.
Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Pie Bars
- Mash the sweet potatoes well – For an ultra-smooth filling, use a hand mixer or food processor.
- Use room temperature ingredients – This helps everything blend together more evenly.
- Let them cool completely – They’ll firm up as they cool, making slicing much easier.
- Chill for best results – Refrigerating them for a few hours before serving enhances the flavor and texture.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Enjoy cold or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They actually taste better the next day as the flavors have time to meld.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes! Just make sure to drain them well and mash until smooth.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free pie crust or a nut-based crust like almond flour and butter.
More Irresistible Recipes to Try
If you love these Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pie Bars, check out this sweet treat:
- Chewy Fruitcake Cookies – A Festive and Flavorful Treat – A chewy, fruity, and delicious twist on a holiday classic!
Conclusion
There you have it—Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pie Bars, an easy and irresistible dessert that captures all the cozy flavors of traditional sweet potato pie in a convenient bar form. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering or a weeknight treat, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out! Share your photos on Pinterest and leave a review. Happy baking!