Sweet Potato Pie Bites Recipe
Sweet Potato Pie Bites are a delightful twist on the beloved Southern classic, reimagined in irresistible, portable form. With their silky-smooth sweet potato filling, warm spices, and flaky crust, these bite-sized creations pack all the nostalgia of holiday pie into one perfectly poppable dessert. Whether you’re planning a festive party, a family gathering, or just want to treat yourself on a cozy evening, these little pies will charm everyone who tries them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Sweet Potato Pie Bites is in their simplicity—each ingredient has a role to play, from adding rich flavor to providing creamy texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Mashed cooked sweet potato (1 cup, about 1 medium): The heart of the recipe, sweet potato offers earthy sweetness and gorgeous color.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Adds a caramelized, molasses depth that pairs perfectly with the sweet potato.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Balances the flavors and ensures just the right amount of sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Brings cozy, warming spice essential to any great sweet potato pie.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a touch of aromatic warmth; freshly grated is extra special if you have it.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Brings out the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses the filling with mellow, comforting flavor.
- Large egg (1): Binds everything together and gives the filling its classic, custardy texture.
- Evaporated milk (1/3 cup): Makes the filling luxuriously creamy; feel free to swap for coconut milk if you need dairy-free.
- Mini tart shells (24, store-bought or homemade): Crunchy, buttery base that lets you pick them up with your fingers—no fork required!
- Whipped cream for topping (optional): A light, sweet flourish that’s always welcome, especially for parties or brunch.
- Chopped pecans for garnish (optional): Adds texture, nuttiness, and a pretty finishing touch.
How to Make Sweet Potato Pie Bites
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep Tart Shells
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Meanwhile, arrange the mini tart shells on a baking sheet so they’re ready to be filled. Taking this quick step first means everything moves smoothly once your filling’s mixed.
Step 2: Make the Sweet Potato Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir in the vanilla extract, then add the egg and evaporated milk. Whisk until the mixture is silky and completely smooth, with no lumps. This creamy filling is what makes Sweet Potato Pie Bites so irresistible.
Step 3: Fill and Bake
Spoon the sweet potato mixture evenly into each tart shell, filling each almost to the top but not overflowing. These little pies puff slightly in the oven, so this helps prevent spills. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the centers are set and the crust edges are golden brown. Once finished, let them cool slightly on the pan before moving to a wire rack or platter.
Step 4: Add Toppings and Serve
If you’re feeling a bit fancy, crown each bite with a little swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans. Not only does it look gorgeous, but it adds flavor and crunch that takes the bites over the top!
How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie Bites
Garnishes
For the most inviting presentation, add a dollop of whipped cream and a scattering of chopped pecans to your Sweet Potato Pie Bites just before serving. For a festive touch, try a light dusting of cinnamon or even a drizzle of maple syrup—each option heightens their natural warmth and sweetness.
Side Dishes
Pair these bites with a cozy mug of spiced chai tea, a glass of cold milk, or even rich hot chocolate for dessert. For a dessert platter, surround the bites with fresh berries, chocolate squares, or little citrus segments to brighten up the spread.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving at a party, arrange Sweet Potato Pie Bites on a tiered dessert stand, or place them in colorful mini cupcake liners for a playful pop of color. Tuck a sprig of mint alongside each bite for elegance, or nestle them in a rustic basket lined with a festive napkin for true Southern charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sweet Potato Pie Bites keep beautifully! Simply transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They remain tender and flavorful, making them great for prepping ahead of time or sneaking a treat whenever you’d like.
Freezing
Want to make them even further in advance? Arrange the cooled bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep their texture and flavor for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
If you prefer them warm, pop a few Sweet Potato Pie Bites into a 300°F oven for about 5–7 minutes, or microwave very briefly (10–15 seconds). Add any garnishes after reheating for the best look and taste.
FAQs
Can I make these with canned sweet potato or yams?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potato in a pinch—just be sure it’s plain (not the pre-sweetened pie filling). Drain off any excess liquid and mash thoroughly to ensure a smooth, creamy base.
Can I make my own mini tart shells instead of buying them?
Absolutely! Use your favorite homemade pie crust recipe and cut rounds to fit a mini muffin tin. Gently press into the cups, prick the bottoms, and pre-bake about 5 minutes before filling for the flakiest crusts.
Are Sweet Potato Pie Bites gluten free?
They can be! Just use store-bought or homemade gluten free tart shells or pie crust, and all of the other ingredients are naturally gluten free. They’ll be every bit as delicious.
How can I make these dairy free?
Simply swap the evaporated milk for coconut milk, almond milk, or another non-dairy option. Skip the whipped cream or use a vegan version for topping. The flavor will still be luscious!
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, this recipe is easy to scale. Double (or triple) all of the ingredients and bake in batches as needed. Sweet Potato Pie Bites are always a hit at big parties and disappear quickly, so making extra is a smart move!
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert with homey, nostalgic flavor, Sweet Potato Pie Bites absolutely deserve a spot on your table. They’re easy to make, endlessly shareable, and every single bite is pure autumnal joy. Give them a try—your friends and family will thank you!
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Sweet Potato Pie Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Sweet Potato Pie Bites are a delightful mini dessert perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you crave a bite-size treat. Creamy sweet potato filling with warm spices baked in mini tart shells, topped with whipped cream and pecans.
Ingredients
Filling:
- 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potato (about 1 medium sweet potato)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
For Assembly:
- 24 mini tart shells (store-bought or homemade)
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- Chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix the filling: In a medium bowl, combine mashed sweet potato, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla, egg, and evaporated milk until smooth.
- Fill the tart shells: Arrange tart shells on a baking sheet. Spoon sweet potato mixture into each shell, almost to the top.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until set and crusts are golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
- Serve: Top with whipped cream and chopped pecans, if desired.
Notes
- Mini muffin tin and pie crust rounds can be used if tart shells are not available.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk for evaporated milk.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
