If you are searching for an irresistible bite-sized treat that perfectly balances sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of spice, look no further than this Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe. This delightful appetizer brings together tender roasted sweet potatoes, a luscious cream cheese filling, and crunchy candied pecans for a combination that feels like a cozy hug in every bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a special snack, these mini pies offer comfort and elegance all wrapped up in one delicious package.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe lies in how simple yet thoughtfully chosen each ingredient is. Every element adds its own dash of flavor, texture, and color, coming together exactly as it should to create a harmonious bite that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
- Sweet potatoes: The star of the show, providing natural sweetness and a velvety texture when roasted.
- Maple syrup: Used to glaze the sweet potatoes and coat the pecans, boosting the sweet depth with an earthy richness.
- Pecans: Chopped finely and candied for a crunchy, cinnamon-spiced topping that adds a satisfying snap.
- Egg whites: Key to helping the sugar and spices stick to the pecans and create a shiny candy glaze.
- Granulated sugar and brown sugar: A blend of sugars for balanced sweetness and moist texture in the candied pecans and filling.
- Cinnamon: Infuses warmth and spice throughout, making each bite cozy and inviting.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a mellow sweetness and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- Cream cheese: The creamy filling that contrasts beautifully with the crisp pecans and soft sweet potato bases.
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 small bowl, whisk together egg whites, a touch of water, and vanilla extract until frothy. In another bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon to create a fragrant sugar blend. Stir the finely chopped pecans into the egg white mixture, then combine them with the sugar blend until fully coated. Spread this mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure an even candying process. Once done, let these sweet, crunchy pecans cool completely — they become the perfect textural contrast in this recipe.
Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Increase your oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Take the peeled sweet potato slices and toss them gently with half of the maple syrup. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes. Flip each slice carefully, brush them with the remaining maple syrup, and roast for another 15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized at the edges. Allow the sweet potatoes to cool fully before the next step to ensure the bites hold together perfectly.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
While the sweet potatoes cool, beat cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy. Add in light brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until the filling is creamy and well combined. This luscious cream cheese blend brings that classic pie flavor and a delightful smoothness to contrast with the roasted sweet potatoes and the crunch of the candied pecans.
Step 4: Assemble the Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
Now comes the fun part! Spoon or pipe the cream cheese filling generously onto each sweet potato round. Then, toss your cooled candied pecans with a teaspoon of maple syrup to add an extra gleam and sticky sweetness. Sprinkle the pecans on top of each bite for that amazing crunch and flavor burst. These little pies are now ready to be served warm or at room temperature — perfect for any occasion.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, consider sprinkling a bit of extra cinnamon on top or a few fresh herbs like finely chopped rosemary or thyme. These garnishes not only add visual appeal but also impart a subtle herbal note that complements the sweet and creamy layers beautifully.
Side Dishes
These bites work wonderfully as a standout appetizer alongside light salads or seasonal fruits. Serving them with a fresh arugula salad or a simple citrus fruit platter balances indulgence with freshness, making your meal feel well-rounded and festive.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the bites neatly on a rustic wooden board or a festive tray lined with parchment paper. You might also place each bite in a small mini cupcake wrapper for easy, mess-free eating. Adding edible flowers or gold leaf accents can turn these into truly elegant bite-sized desserts that are sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to place layers separated by parchment to avoid squashing the cream cheese filling or pecans. This makes them a convenient treat to enjoy later without any loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these ahead of time, freeze the assembled bites before adding the pecans. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Frozen Sweet Potato Pie Bites stay good for up to one month. Thaw fully in the refrigerator before adding the candied pecans and serving for the freshest taste.
Reheating
To warm these bites, pop them in a preheated 325°F (160°C) oven for about 8 to 10 minutes or until they are just heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may alter the texture of the sweet potatoes and cream cheese filling. Heating them gently ensures you get a delightful mix of warm, creamy, and crunchy sensations.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
You could try, but sweet potatoes have a unique natural sweetness and creamy texture that make these bites special. Regular potatoes are starchier and more neutral in flavor, so they might not give you the same rich, cozy taste that defines this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! You can swap the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup in place of sugars wherever appropriate. Make sure your egg white substitute (like aquafaba) works well for candying the pecans. While the texture might differ slightly, the overall flavor will still be delicious.
How far in advance can I prepare these bites?
You can prepare the sweet potato slices and candied pecans a day ahead and keep them refrigerated. The cream cheese filling is best made the same day you assemble the bites to maintain the freshest and creamiest texture.
Can these bites be served cold?
Yes, they are delicious at room temperature or chilled. Cold bites offer a firmer cream cheese filling and a nice contrast to the crunchy pecans, making them versatile for any type of gathering.
Do I need any special equipment to make this recipe?
Not really! A good mixing bowl, baking sheets, and basic kitchen tools like a whisk and hand mixer or stand mixer are enough. Having a piping bag handy for the cream cheese filling is optional but it does make the assembly look extra polished.
Final Thoughts
If you love inventive recipes that bring familiar flavors together in a fresh and fun way, this Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe is sure to become one of your favorites. It’s a crowd-pleaser that offers the heartwarming comfort of sweet potato pie in convenient, elegant bite-sized form. I can’t wait for you to try these at your next gathering and see how quickly they disappear!
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Sweet Potato Pie Bites with Candied Pecans and Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet Potato Pie Bites are a delightful and bite-sized twist on the classic Southern dessert. Featuring roasted sweet potato rounds topped with a creamy cinnamon-spiced cream cheese filling and crunchy candied pecans, these no-fuss treats combine natural sweetness with rich texture, perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or an elegant snack.
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 teaspoon water, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until frothy. In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ¼ cup brown sugar, and 1½ teaspoons cinnamon. Stir the chopped pecans into the egg white mixture, then fold in the sugar blend. Spread the pecan mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through. Once done, remove from oven and let the candied pecans 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 until evenly coated. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each slice. Brush the flipped side with the remaining 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Remove from oven and allow the sweet potato rounds to cool.
- Make the Filling: Using a mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the light brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until the filling is fluffy and well combined.
- Assemble the Bites: Spoon or pipe the cream cheese filling onto each cooled sweet potato slice, spreading it evenly. Toss the cooled candied pecans with 1 teaspoon of maple syrup to glaze them lightly, then sprinkle the pecans generously on top of each bite.
- Serve: These Sweet Potato Pie Bites can be served warm or at room temperature. Arrange them on a platter or tray for an inviting presentation, optionally garnishing with a dusting of cinnamon or fresh herbs to enhance the visual appeal and aroma.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth and fluffy filling.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream cheese filling.
- These bites can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 2 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
- Use parchment paper on baking sheets for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of maple syrup and sugars used in the recipe to your preference.
