Introduction:
Sweet Potato Pie is a Southern classic, beloved for its smooth, custard-like texture and rich, spiced flavor. Made with tender sweet potatoes, warm spices, and a buttery crust, this pie is a delicious alternative to pumpkin pie and is perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion when you’re craving a comforting dessert. With its silky filling and hint of sweetness, sweet potato pie is a must-try for pie lovers.
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:
- Boil or roast the sweet potatoes until very soft to ensure a silky, lump-free filling.
- Whip the filling well to incorporate air and give the pie a light, fluffy texture.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to help the filling set properly.
- If you want to enhance the flavor, add a splash of bourbon or a teaspoon of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
How to Make and Instructions:
- 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. - 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 get a smooth consistency. - Prepare the filling:
Add the 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. - Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). - 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. - 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. - Cool and serve:
Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to allow it 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 but not overly so. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes is complemented 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
Conclusion and Recommendation:
Sweet Potato Pie is a 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.