Why You’ll Love this Sweet Potato Bars Recipe
You’ll love this Sweet Potato Bars recipe for its perfect blend of flavors and textures. The crust is a buttery, cake-like base that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
Once you bite into the soft, creamy sweet potato filling, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The hints of vanilla and cinnamon create a warm, inviting aroma that fills the house, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before they cool.
Plus, they’re wonderfully versatile; whether you serve them at a holiday gathering or enjoy them as a delightful afternoon snack, they never disappoint.
Trust me, once you try these bars, you’ll be sharing the recipe with everyone you know!
Ingredients of Sweet Potato Bars
If you’re ready to whip up some sweet potato bars that are as comforting as your favorite sweater, then you’re in the right place. The ingredients list is pretty straightforward and includes some pantry staples alongside the star of the show—sweet potatoes.
Just imagine the smell of baked sweet potatoes mingling with vanilla and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen. It’s enough to make anyone feel cozy! So, let’s plunge into the ingredients you’ll need to create these delicious bars.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Bars:
- 1 (18 ounce) box of yellow cake mix
- 8 tablespoons of melted butter
- 1 egg
- 2 1/2 cups peeled mashed sweet potato
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 tablespoons of softened butter
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 3 eggs
Now, before you race off to the grocery store, let’s chat about a few things. First, you might wonder if you can swap the yellow cake mix for something healthier or gluten-free.
While I applaud your adventurous spirit, I’d recommend sticking with the yellow cake mix for that classic flavor and texture. Also, when it comes to sweet potatoes, if you’re feeling fancy, you can roast them instead of boiling for a richer flavor.
Just remember to let them cool before mashing; trust me, no one enjoys a scalded tongue. Finally, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
No one likes lumpy cream cheese—unless it’s a cheese board, and then it’s a different story. Happy baking!
How to Make Sweet Potato Bars
Making sweet potato bars is a delightful journey, one that fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas that make you feel right at home.
First, let’s tackle the crust. Grab that 1 (18 ounce) box of yellow cake mix and pour it into a mixing bowl. Add 8 tablespoons of melted butter and 1 egg, then mix it all together with an electric mixer until it’s well combined. You want this mixture to be smooth and slightly thick—think of it as the cozy foundation for your bars.
Once it’s ready, spread it into a greased 13×9 baking dish, pressing it down firmly to create an even crust layer. This crust is where the magic begins, so pack it down nicely and set it aside while we work on the filling.
Now, onto the sweet potato filling, which, let me tell you, is the star of the show. In another bowl, take 2 1/2 cups of peeled mashed sweet potato and add in 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 4 tablespoons of softened butter.
Use your mixer again to cream these ingredients together until they’re smooth and creamy—imagine a velvety blend of flavors. Next, add in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice.
This combo is what dreams are made of, trust me. Mix until everything is well blended and then beat in 3 eggs, one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Once your filling is ready, spread it evenly over that lovely crust you made earlier, and pop it into the preheated oven set at 350 degrees. Bake for about 50 to 60 minutes. The center should be set but still soft—like a gentle hug from your favorite blanket.
Cool it down before cutting it into squares, and just like that, you have your sweet potato bars ready to enjoy.
Sweet Potato Bars Substitutions & Variations
After enjoying the delightful process of creating sweet potato bars, I often think about how easy it’s to customize this recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs.
For a gluten-free option, I swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free blend. If I want a healthier twist, I replace the butter with unsweetened applesauce and use honey instead of confectioners’ sugar.
Adding nuts or chocolate chips can give an extra crunch or sweetness. I’ve also experimented with different spices—try nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor profile.
If I’m looking for a dairy-free version, I use a plant-based cream cheese and coconut oil. Each variation lets me enjoy sweet potato bars in a new way!
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Bars
Sweet potato bars are a delightful treat that pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments.
When I serve these bars, I love to drizzle a rich caramel sauce over the top for a sweet, decadent touch. A dollop of whipped cream also adds a light and airy contrast, making each bite even more enjoyable.
For those who prefer a bit of crunch, a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts works beautifully, enhancing the texture. I often like to pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, as the warm bars and cold ice cream create a delicious balance.
Finally, a cup of spiced chai or a rich coffee complements the flavors perfectly, making for a cozy dessert experience. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing these delicious mashed sweet potato bars, I’ve discovered a few tips that can elevate your baking experience.
First, make certain your sweet potatoes are thoroughly cooked and cooled; this guarantees a smoother texture. If you want an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice.
Don’t skip the cooling step after baking; letting them cool completely helps the bars set properly. For a richer topping, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce when serving.
Finally, these bars freeze well, so feel free to make a double batch and store some for later. Enjoy your baking adventure!