Spud Bars
Spud Bars are chewy, sweet treats infused with mashed potatoes, vanilla, and cinnamon, perfect for snack time or dessert. They appeal to those who enjoy comforting, unique flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine and sugars in a bowl.
- Beat in the eggs, vanilla, and mashed potatoes.
- Mix in the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Pour batter into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- Cut into 2-inch squares while still warm and remove from the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you don't have mashed potatoes on hand, you can quickly make some by boiling and mashing potatoes, or you could use store-bought mashed potatoes. Adding a handful of chocolate chips or nuts can also enhance the texture and flavor. For a unique twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg alongside the cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spud Bars warm, dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. For a delightful brunch option, consider serving them alongside a fruit salad or coffee. These bars also make a great snack for afternoon tea or a casual gathering with friends.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Spud Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them for longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or warm them in an oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. This will help maintain their moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spud Bars contains roughly 66 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes for regular mashed potatoes to create a sweeter version of Spud Bars. Just make sure to cook and mash the sweet potatoes before adding them to the batter. This will give the bars a unique flavor and a beautiful color.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Spud Bars, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend includes a binding agent, as this will help maintain the texture of the bars. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on them while they bake.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The Spud Bars are done when the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Since they are quite moist due to the mashed potatoes, a few crumbs are fine, but they shouldn't be wet. Allow them to cool slightly before cutting for the best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).