Sweet Potato Pie is a Southern classic, cherished for its smooth, custard-like texture and rich, spiced flavor. Made with tender sweet potatoes, warm spices, and a buttery crust, this pie serves as a delightful alternative to pumpkin pie. Whether for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply when you’re in the mood for a comforting dessert, Sweet Potato Pie is sure to please. Its silky filling and subtle sweetness make it a staple for pie lovers everywhere.
Ingredients and Quantities
For the Pie Filling:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1½ pounds), peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk (or regular milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Tips for Success
- Preparing Sweet Potatoes: Boil or roast the sweet potatoes until very soft to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Whip the Filling: Beat the mixture well to incorporate air, giving the pie a light and fluffy texture.
- Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to help the filling set properly.
- Enhance Flavor: For an extra kick, add a splash of bourbon or a teaspoon of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
How to Make & Instructions
1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Place the peeled and chopped sweet potatoes into a large pot of water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and let them cool slightly.
2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth. You can use a potato masher, fork, or electric mixer to achieve a smooth consistency.
3. Prepare the Filling
Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Beat the mixture until smooth and well combined.
4. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Prepare the Pie Crust
Roll out your pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges if desired. Pour the sweet potato filling into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The pie may puff up slightly while baking but will settle as it cools.
7. Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to enable the filling to set. Serve at room temperature or chilled, with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Description
Sweet Potato Pie is a rich, creamy dessert with a smooth, custard-like filling that’s sweet without being overly sugary. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes is enhanced by warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, while the buttery, flaky crust provides the perfect base. Each bite is soft, sweet, and full of comforting flavors, making it a classic choice for holiday tables and family gatherings alike.
Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
Suggestions for Accompanying Your Pie
Sweet Potato Pie pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your culinary experience:
- Whipped Cream: A simple whipped cream with a hint of vanilla is perfect to balance the sweetness of the pie.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of melting vanilla ice cream adds a nice creaminess and freshness to every bite.
- Toasted Nuts: Top your pie with toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that adds a delightful nuttiness.
- Fruit Compote: A cranberry or pear compote can lend a refreshing acidity that contrasts beautifully with the pie’s sweetness.
Variations of the Recipe
For those who love to experiment in the kitchen, there are several ways to add your personal touch to Sweet Potato Pie:
- Spicy Variation: Add a bit of allspice or black pepper to the spice mix for a hint of warmth.
- Coconut Cream Pie: Substitute some evaporated milk with coconut milk for an even creamier filling with a tropical flavor.
- Chocolate Twist: Incorporate dark chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the filling for a chocolatey version that will delight chocolate lovers.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Sweet Potato Pie keeps well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the pie (without toppings) for up to one to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating it in a preheated oven.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Sweet Potato Pie is a beloved Southern favorite that’s perfect for any dessert table, especially during the fall and holiday seasons. The creamy, spiced filling made from tender sweet potatoes is a comforting, nostalgic treat that pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream. It’s easy to prepare and a delightful alternative to the more traditional pumpkin pie. Whether served at Thanksgiving or enjoyed throughout the year, this pie is sure to impress and satisfy all your guests. Don’t wait any longer—gather your ingredients and whip up this wonderful pie! The smiles and compliments you’ll receive will be well worth it. Enjoy!
