Light & Fluffy Sweet Potato Bars

By Geo Banks-Weston | Published on May 8, 2026

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Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Ingredients

  

For the Bars

• 1 large sweet potato (1 cup)
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, optional
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup milk

For the Glaze (Optional)

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon evaporated milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

 

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Drizzle the one to two large sweet potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, then wrap in foil. Roast for 45 minutes or until fork tender. Let cool slightly, then place in an ice bath for 5 minutes to loosen the skin. Peel and set aside to cool completely.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
4. In a large bowl or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the mashed sweet potato until smooth. Add melted butter and both sugars, mixing until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Add dry ingredients. Add flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Mix until just combined, then add the milk and stir until smooth. Do not overmix.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until set and lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
7. Make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spoon or drizzle over the cooled bars before serving.

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About This Recipe

Sweet potatoes were a constant in Geo’s childhood home, served at nearly every meal. These light and fluffy sweet potato bars are finished with a vanilla glaze and honor the role this versatile root vegetable played in so many of his favorite dishes.

Meet the Recipe Creator

Geo Banks-Weston is a food blogger, writer, podcaster, and recipe developer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He uses his platform to showcase underrepresented content creators, entrepreneurs, and culinary professionals transforming the food and beverage industry.