If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s as charming as it is delicious, these Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe will steal your heart. Each bite-sized piece bursts with the cozy warmth of roasted sweet potatoes, the silky tang of cream cheese filling, and a crunchy, sweet pecan topping that’s pure magic. It’s a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that’s perfect for sharing at any gathering or enjoying as a fancy snack. Trust me, once you try this incredible combination, it might just become your new favorite comfort bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients keep the recipe approachable but pack in all the flavor and texture you want. Each component has a clear role, whether it’s the velvety cream cheese filling or the sweet, crunchy pecans that bring the whole bite to life.
- Sweet potatoes (3 large, peeled and sliced): The foundation of these bites with their natural sweetness and creamy texture once roasted.
- Maple syrup (4 tbsp, divided): Adds a rich, caramelized sweetness that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.
- Pecans (1 cup, finely chopped): Provide crunch and nuttiness—essential for the candied topping.
- Egg whites (1 tbsp): Help the sugar coating stick to the pecans and create that delightful candy shell.
- Water (¼ tsp): Light amount to help with the egg white mixture consistency.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): For that crisp, sweet candy coating that makes the pecans irresistible.
- Light brown sugar (¼ cup + ¼ cup): Adds warmth and depth—used both in candying the pecans and the cream cheese filling.
- Ground cinnamon (1½ tsp + ½ tsp): Infuses a gentle spice that elevates the entire bite.
- Pure vanilla extract (½ tsp + ½ tsp): Brings a lovely aromatic note to the pecans and cream cheese filling alike.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, room temperature): The velvety base for the filling, adding smoothness and a hint of tang.
How to Make Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
Step 1: Candy the Pecans
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a bowl, whisk the egg whites, water, and vanilla until frothy—this mixture will help the sugar stick beautifully to the pecans. In another bowl, combine the granulated and brown sugar with cinnamon for that perfectly spiced sweetness. Stir the chopped pecans into the egg white mixture, then fold in the sugar blend until every piece is evenly coated. Spread the pecans on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, stirring once halfway to ensure they candy evenly. After baking, let them cool completely to achieve maximum crunch.
Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for this step. Toss your sweet potato slices with half of the maple syrup, coating each slice evenly for a hint of sweetness that will roast into a caramelized glaze. Lay the slices out in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. Flip them over, brush with the remaining maple syrup, and roast for an additional 15 minutes. Once done, allow the sweet potatoes to cool so they’re ready to hold the creamy filling without getting soggy.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
With a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese until it’s luxuriously smooth. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing everything until the filling becomes light and fluffy. This creamy layer adds the perfect tangy contrast to the sweet and spiced components, making each bite a true delight.
Step 4: Assemble the Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
Using a spoon or piping bag, generously dollop or pipe the cream cheese mixture onto each cooled sweet potato slice. Then, toss the candied pecans with a teaspoon of maple syrup to add a little extra stickiness and flavor before sprinkling them on top. The final touch transforms these bites into elegant little bundles of flavor and texture.
Step 5: Serve
Serve your Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe warm or at room temperature arranged on a charming platter. For some extra wow factor, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh herbs, making them as eye-catching as they are tasty.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
Garnishes
Classic ground cinnamon is always a winner sprinkled lightly on top, but fresh herbs like a bit of thyme or rosemary can add a lovely unexpected twist. A drizzle of extra maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar also brings extra charm and sweetness, perfect if you’re serving these at a party or special brunch.
Side Dishes
Pair these bites with a crisp green salad or a refreshing fruit salad for balance. They also work wonderfully alongside a warm cup of spiced apple cider, especially during cooler months when comfort foods reign supreme.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive presentation, try serving the bites on a wooden board with small bowls of extra candied pecans and cream cheese filling for dipping. Alternatively, layer them on mini to-go cupcake liners for portion control at gatherings or stack them on a tiered tray to wow guests with their colorful appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the bites tightly or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the cream cheese filling fresh and the candied pecans crunchy, though best eaten sooner rather than later.
Freezing
If you want to save them longer, freeze the assembled bites in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw the night before in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
To enjoy them warm, gently reheat the bites in a preheated 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes. This warms the sweet potato base and softens the cream cheese filling just right without melting the candied pecans.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Regular potatoes won’t provide the same natural sweetness and creamy texture that sweet potatoes do, so the overall flavor will be quite different. Sweet potatoes are key to capturing that classic pie-inspired taste.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the filling?
If you prefer a dairy-free alternative, try using vegan cream cheese or a smooth cashew cream. Keep in mind these may alter the traditional tangy flavor slightly but still give you a creamy texture.
How do I ensure the pecans don’t burn while candying?
Stirring the pecans halfway during baking is essential, allowing even cooking and preventing hot spots. Keep a close eye near the end, as sugar can quickly go from perfectly candied to burnt.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the candied pecans with seeds like pepitas or toasted coconut flakes for crunch without nuts, though the flavor profile will shift a bit.
Is this recipe suitable for parties and large gatherings?
Yes, these bite-sized treats are perfect finger foods for entertaining. Their attractive presentation and balanced flavors make them crowd-pleasers at any festive occasion.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something about these Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe that brings comfort, elegance, and joy all at once. Whether you’re making them for a holiday spread or a cozy snack, they promise to impress and satisfy. I can’t wait for you to try them and share these little gems with your loved ones—they truly are a labor of love that’s easy to fall in love with!
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Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Sweet Potato Pie Bites are delightful bite-sized treats featuring roasted sweet potato rounds topped with a creamy cinnamon-spiced cream cheese filling and crunchy homemade candied pecans. These flavorful mini pies combine natural sweetness with a satisfying texture, perfect for a festive appetizer or a unique dessert offering.
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Base
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 4 tbsp maple syrup (divided)
For the Candied Pecans
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp egg whites
- ¼ tsp water
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Candy the Pecans: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a bowl, whisk together the egg whites, ¼ tsp water, and ½ tsp vanilla extract until the mixture is frothy. In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ¼ cup brown sugar, and 1½ tsp ground cinnamon. Mix the finely chopped pecans into the egg white mixture, then fold in the sugar and cinnamon blend until pecans are well coated. Spread this mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even candying. Remove and let cool completely.
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Toss the sweet potato slices with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup to coat. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip each slice, brush with the remaining 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until tender and caramelized. Allow the slices to cool thoroughly before assembling.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: Beat the room temperature cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Add the ¼ cup light brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, blending until the mixture becomes fluffy and well combined.
- Assemble the Bites: Using a spoon or a piping bag, neatly place the cream cheese filling onto each cooled sweet potato round. Toss the cooled candied pecans with 1 teaspoon of maple syrup to add extra glaze, then sprinkle them generously over the cream cheese topping on each bite.
- Serve: Serve the sweet potato pie bites warm or at room temperature arranged on a platter. For an extra touch, garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon or fresh herbs if desired. These bites make an excellent appetizer or dessert for gatherings and special occasions.
Notes
- If you prefer, substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for different nut flavors.
- Make sure the sweet potato slices are cool before adding the cream cheese filling to prevent melting.
- The candied pecans can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container to save time.
- For a dairy-free option, try using vegan cream cheese alternatives.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon and maple syrup according to your sweetness preference.
