Sweet Potato Pie

If you’re looking for a way to impress your family this Thanksgiving, look no further than this delightful Sweet Potato Pie! This recipe has been passed down in my family for generations, and every time I make it, the warm, cozy flavors bring back sweet memories of holidays spent together. The combination of dark brown sugar and classic spices transforms humble sweet potatoes into a rich, creamy filling that makes this pie a true showstopper.

Perfect for family gatherings or even just a cozy night in, this Sweet Potato Pie is sure to become a new favorite in your home. The best part? It’s easy enough to whip up on busy weeknights but special enough for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious flavor: The blend of sweet potatoes with warm spices creates a comforting dessert that everyone will adore.
• Simple preparation: With straightforward steps and easy-to-find ingredients, making this pie is a breeze!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and sweet taste—it’s hard to resist!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the pie ahead of time so you can focus on enjoying the holiday festivities.
• Homemade goodness: There’s something truly special about serving a pie made from scratch that warms the heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Sweet Potato Pie. You probably have most of these items in your kitchen already!

For the Pie Crust

• 2 1/2 cups (300 g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 teaspoon (6 g) table salt
• 2 tablespoons (25 g) sugar
• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter (cold, 2 sticks)
• 1/4 cup (60 g) ice water (more as needed)

For the Filling

• 1 lb sweet potatoes (about 2 medium)
• 5 tablespoons (70 g) unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup (200 g) dark brown sugar (packed)
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon cloves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 cup (310 g) evaporated milk
• 1 tablespoon (15 g) vanilla extract

For Topping

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk
• Whipped cream

Variations

This Sweet Potato Pie recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add a twist of citrus: Grate some fresh orange zest into the filling for a bright flavor boost.
• Include nuts: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and depth.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or allspice if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for evaporated milk for a delightful tropical twist.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by making your pie crust. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until it forms a dough. This step is crucial because it ensures your crust is flaky and tender.

Step 2: Pre-bake the Crust

Roll out the dough on a floured surface and fit it into a pie dish. Prick the bottom with a fork and pre-bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes until lightly golden. Pre-baking helps prevent that soggy bottom we all dread!

Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

While your crust bakes, peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and mash them until smooth. The sweetness of these potatoes adds depth to your pie filling.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together mashed sweet potatoes with softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, spices, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. This step brings all those lovely flavors together into one creamy filling.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the filling into your pre-baked crust. In a small bowl, whisk together one egg with milk; brush this mixture over the edges of the crust for a beautiful finish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes until set. Watching it bubble in the oven is pure magic!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow your pie to cool at room temperature before slicing. Serve with whipped cream on top for an extra touch of indulgence! Enjoy every bite of this homemade Sweet Potato Pie—it’s sure to be a hit at your gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Pie

Making sweet potato pie can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure that your pie turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes. This will give you the best flavor and texture for your filling.
• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and water cold when making the crust helps create a flaky texture. It’s all about that tender bite!
• Don’t over-mix the filling: Gently combine your filling ingredients until just mixed. Over-mixing can lead to a tough texture, which we definitely want to avoid.
• Bake until set: Make sure to bake your pie until the center is set but slightly jiggly. This ensures a creamy filling without being overly dry or undercooked.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the pie to cool before slicing helps it to firm up, making it easier to cut neat slices.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Serving sweet potato pie is just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious dessert to impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that beautifully complements the rich flavors of the pie.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top gives an inviting aroma and enhances the fall spice notes already in the pie.
• Chopped pecans: For a little crunch, sprinkle some toasted pecans on top. They provide a wonderful contrast in texture while adding nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish offers a savory balance with its creamy mushroom sauce and crispy onions, making it an excellent companion for sweet potato pie.
• Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The natural sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pie, creating a harmonious flavor profile on your plate.
• Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread brings a comforting element to your meal, its slightly crumbly texture complementing the smoothness of sweet potato pie.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the pie, providing a refreshing contrast that brightens each bite.

Now you’re all set to make and serve an amazing sweet potato pie that will surely be the highlight of any gathering! Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and around the table with loved ones this holiday season.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this sweet potato pie is how perfect it is for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, saving you valuable moments on busy holiday mornings or gatherings. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious pie.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any uneaten pie slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best to consume leftovers within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.
• If you prefer, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture.

Freezing

• Wrap the entire cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• You can also freeze individual slices if you’d like to enjoy them later!
• Sweet potato pie can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; just remember to label it with the date.

Reheating

• To reheat a whole pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm it for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• For individual slices, you can microwave them for about 30-60 seconds or until warmed to your liking.
• Consider topping with a dollop of whipped cream right before serving for that fresh-baked flavor!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making sweet potato pie:

What is the best way to make a sweet potato pie from scratch?

The best way involves using fresh sweet potatoes, baking them until tender, and then blending them with spices and sugar for that rich flavor. Following this recipe will guide you step by step!

Can I use canned sweet potatoes for my sweet potato pie?

Yes! Canned sweet potatoes can be convenient. Just make sure to drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture in your filling.

How do I know when my sweet potato pie is done baking?

Look for a firm filling that has set around the edges while still having a slight jiggle in the center. It will firm up as it cools!

What’s the secret ingredient in the best sweet potato pie recipes?

Many bakers swear by dark brown sugar and a mix of spices like cinnamon and ginger to elevate the flavors! These ingredients create that classic comforting taste.

Final Thoughts

This homemade sweet potato pie is truly special! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a warm embrace of fall flavors that brings people together. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! May it bring joy to your table and smiles all around. Happy baking!