There’s something undeniably comforting about sweet potato pie. The warmth of cinnamon, the creamy texture, and the sweet richness make it a classic dessert for any occasion. But what if I told you that you could enjoy all that goodness in an easy-to-make, perfectly portable bar form? Enter Sweet Potato Pie Bars—your new favorite way to enjoy this Southern staple!
Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to something special, these bars deliver big flavor with minimal fuss. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love These Sweet Potato Pie Bars
- Easy to Make – No rolling out pie dough! Just mix, pour, and bake.
- Perfectly Spiced – A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
- Rich & Creamy – Thanks to sweetened condensed milk and melted butter, every bite is silky smooth.
- Great for Sharing – Cut them into squares for easy serving at potlucks, family gatherings, or meal prep treats!
What Do These Sweet Potato Pie Bars Taste Like?
Imagine the classic sweet potato pie, but with a slightly firmer texture that makes them easy to slice and serve. The crust adds just the right amount of buttery crunch, while the filling is smooth, velvety, and full of warm spices. They taste like fall in every bite, but honestly? I make them year-round because they’re just that good!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pie Filling:
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2-3 medium sweet potatoes)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Essential Tools for This Recipe
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- 9×9-inch baking dish (or an 8×8 dish for thicker bars)
- Parchment paper (for easy removal)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Possible Additions & Substitutions
- Crust Alternatives – Swap the pie crust for a graham cracker or gingersnap crust for a twist!
- Extra Spices – Add a pinch of allspice or cloves for a deeper spice flavor.
- Toppings – A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel makes these bars even more indulgent.
- Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top before baking for added texture.
How to Make Sweet Potato Pie Bars
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
If you haven’t already, cook your sweet potatoes until soft. You can roast them in the oven at 400°F for about 45 minutes or microwave them until tender. Once cooled, peel and mash them until smooth.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Line your 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 3: Make the Pie Crust
Roll out the pie crust and press it into the bottom of the baking dish. Trim any excess and prick the surface with a fork. Pre-bake for about 10 minutes, just until slightly firm.
Step 4: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and melted butter. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble & Bake
Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool & Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and enjoy!
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Pie Bars
- Whipped Cream – A classic topping that adds lightness to every bite.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – Warm pie bars + cold ice cream = dessert heaven!
- Caramel Drizzle – For a decadent touch, drizzle caramel sauce over the bars.
- A Hot Drink – Enjoy with coffee, chai tea, or a spiced latte for the ultimate cozy treat.
Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Pie Bars
- Use Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and gives a richer flavor.
- Chill Before Slicing – Let the bars cool completely and refrigerate for a couple of hours for the cleanest slices.
- Don’t Overbake – The center should be set but still have a slight jiggle—it will firm up as it cools.
- Use a Sharp Knife – For neat slices, wipe your knife clean between cuts.
How to Store & Freeze
- In the Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- In the Freezer – Wrap each bar in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
FAQs
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! They actually taste even better the next day, so feel free to make them in advance.
Do I have to pre-bake the crust?
It’s not required, but it helps keep the crust from getting soggy.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Fresh is best, but if using canned, make sure they’re plain (not in syrup) and well-drained before mashing.
What if I don’t have condensed milk?
You can use heavy cream and ½ cup sugar as a substitute.
Final Thoughts: Why You Need to Make These Bars!
These Sweet Potato Pie Bars are everything you love about the classic dessert, but easier to serve and share. They’re rich, creamy, and packed with cozy spices, making them perfect for any season. Whether you’re a longtime sweet potato pie lover or trying it for the first time, this recipe is a must-bake!
Try them out and let me know what you think! If you make them, share your photos on Pinterest or leave a review below—I’d love to see your delicious creations!
More Delicious Recipes to Try:
- Pumpkin Pie Bars – Another fall favorite in easy-to-slice form.
- Pecan Pie Brownies – A chocolatey twist on a classic.
- Apple Crisp Bars – Perfect for apple season!
Enjoy baking!