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Sweet Potato Cream Cheese Bars with Praline Spread

Delicious bars made with a sweet potato base layered with creamy cream cheese and topped with a crunchy praline spread.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 12 bars
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the sweet potato base

  • 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes) Sweet potatoes give this dish its lovely moisture and wonderful flavor.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients beautifully.
  • 1 cup light brown sugar Brings a lovely deep sweetness along with a hint of caramel flavor.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Balances the flavors.
  • 2 large eggs Essential for structure and moisture.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds vanilla goodness.
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Base of the bars giving them structure.
  • 1 tsp baking powder Helps the bars rise slightly.
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon A warm spice that blends perfectly with sweet potatoes.
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg Adds cozy depth of flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp salt Balances the sweetness.

For the cream cheese layer

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Creates luscious creaminess.
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar Balances the tang of cream cheese.
  • 1 large egg Helps the cream cheese layer set.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds more vanilla flavor.

For the praline spread

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter Adds richness to the topping.
  • 1/3 cup light brown sugar Brings sweet caramel undertone.
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream Gives the praline a silky texture.
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract Rounds off the flavors.
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans Adds a crunch.
  • pinch salt Elevates the sweet flavors.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Mix in the mashed sweet potatoes until fully blended.
  • In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.
  • Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.

Cream Cheese Layer

  • In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, additional granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until creamy.
  • Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the sweet potato base and swirl gently to create a marbled effect.

Baking and Topping

  • Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes until the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let the bars cool completely in the pan.
  • In a small saucepan, melt the butter for praline over medium heat, then stir in brown sugar and heavy cream, cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt; let it cool slightly.
  • Spread the praline mixture over the cooled bars and refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
  • Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.

Notes

Use fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor. Every oven is different; check your bars early to avoid overbaking. Let them cool for optimal flavor melding.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18g
Keyword Cream Cheese, dessert bars, Fall Desserts, Praline Spread, Sweet Potato Bars
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