Sweet Potato Pie Bars Recipe

Graham cracker crumbs: Crushed graham crackers used to form the base crust of the bars.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to both the crust and the filling.

Butter: Melted to bind the graham cracker crumbs together for the crust.

Sweet potatoes: Cooked and mashed to create the creamy filling.

Evaporated milk: Provides a rich and creamy texture to the filling.

Brown sugar: Adds a deeper, molasses-like sweetness to the filling.

Granulated sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the filling.

Eggs: Beaten to help set the filling.

Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the filling.

Ground cinnamon: Provides a warm, spicy note to the filling.

Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, nutty spice to the filling.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the filling.

When preparing the crust, ensure that the graham cracker crumbs are finely ground. This will help the butter bind the crumbs together more effectively, resulting in a more cohesive and sturdy base. You can achieve this by using a food processor or placing the crumbs in a sealed plastic bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.

• graham cracker crumbs - Substitute with digestive biscuit crumbs: Digestive biscuits have a similar texture and slightly sweet flavor that works well as a crust.

• sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a subtle caramel flavor.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and helps bind the crust together.

• cooked mashed sweet potatoes - Substitute with cooked mashed butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar texture and sweetness, making it a good alternative.

• evaporated milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor, which complements the spices.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a rich, natural sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and adds moisture to the filling.

• large beaten eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoon water per egg) are a good vegan alternative that helps bind the filling.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor that pairs well with the spices.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices that enhance the flavor profile.

• ground nutmeg - Substitute with ground allspice: Allspice has a similar warm, spicy flavor that can replace nutmeg.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a slightly different mineral content that can enhance the overall flavor.

• Allow the sweet potato pie bars to cool completely at room temperature. This ensures that the filling sets properly and doesn't become soggy during storage.

• Once cooled, cut the bars into individual servings. This makes it easier to grab a piece whenever you crave a sweet treat.

• For short-term storage, place the bars in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• If you plan to enjoy the bars over a longer period, freezing is a great option. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.

• After wrapping, place the bars in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• When you're ready to indulge, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor of the dessert.

• For a quick thaw, you can also leave the bars at room temperature for about 1-2 hours. However, avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.

• To enhance the experience, serve the thawed bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy topping complements the rich, spiced flavor of the sweet potato filling beautifully.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sweet potato pie bars on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until they're warmed through. This method helps maintain the crust's crispiness and the filling's creamy texture.

• For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the sweet potato pie bars on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even warming.

• If you prefer a more even and gentle reheating, use a toaster oven. Set it to 325°F (160°C) and place the sweet potato pie bars inside for about 10 minutes. This method is great for smaller portions and keeps the crust from becoming too soggy.

• For a stovetop method, use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place the sweet potato pie bars in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method can give a slight caramelization to the crust for an added flavor boost.

• Oven: Used to preheat and bake the crust and sweet potato mixture.

• Mixing bowl: Used to mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter for the crust, as well as to combine the sweet potato mixture.

• Baking dish: Used to press the graham cracker crust into and to bake the sweet potato mixture.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, evaporated milk, and sweet potatoes.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

• Spatula: Used to press the graham cracker crust into the baking dish and to spread the sweet potato mixture evenly.

• Whisk: Used to beat the eggs and mix the sweet potato mixture thoroughly.

• Knife: Used to cut the cooled sweet potato pie into bars.

• Cooling rack: Used to cool the baked crust and the finished sweet potato pie bars.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and prepare all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use pre-made crust: Save time by using a store-bought graham cracker crust instead of making it from scratch.

Microwave sweet potatoes: Cook sweet potatoes in the microwave instead of boiling to reduce cooking time.

Mix in one bowl: Combine all filling ingredients in one bowl to minimize cleanup and speed up preparation.

Cool quickly: Place the baked pie bars in the fridge to cool faster before cutting.