Sweet Potato Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and delicious, look no further than this homemade sweet potato pie! This recipe has been a cherished part of my family gatherings for years. There’s something about the aroma of warm spices and sweet potatoes baking in the oven that brings everyone together. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a cozy family dinner, or just a special treat after a busy week, this sweet potato pie is sure to impress your loved ones.

What makes this pie truly special is its rich filling made with dark brown sugar and fragrant spices. Topped with fluffy whipped cream, it’s the perfect ending to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This sweet potato pie requires straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels!
• Family Favorite: With its delightful flavors, this pie is sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and simply warm it up before serving; your guests will never know!
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it at holidays or casual gatherings, and watch it disappear from the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This sweet potato pie uses simple, wholesome components that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

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)
• 1/4 cup (60 g) white grape juice (cold)

For the Sweet Potato 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 the Egg Wash

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk

To Serve

• whipped cream

Variations

This sweet potato pie recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment and make it your own with these variations:

• Add Some Citrus: A splash of fresh orange juice or lemon zest can brighten up the flavor profile.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for added texture.
• Spice It Up: If you love warmth in your desserts, try adding a touch more cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick.
• Swap Sweeteners: You can use maple syrup instead of dark brown sugar for a different flavor twist.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by making your pie crust because it needs time to chill. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar. Then add the cold unsalted butter cut into pieces. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water and white grape juice until the dough holds together but is not sticky. Form it into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps create a flakier crust!

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

While your crust chills, let’s prepare those sweet potatoes! Peel them and cut them into chunks. Boil them in salted water until they are tender—about 15-20 minutes should do it. Once soft, drain and mash them until smooth. This step ensures a creamy filling that melts in your mouth.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together your mashed sweet potatoes with softened butter and dark brown sugar until combined. Beat in eggs one at a time followed by cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Each ingredient adds depth and warmth to our filling—taste as you go if you like!

Step 4: Assemble Your Pie

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your chilled pie crust on a lightly floured surface until about 12 inches in diameter. Place it into your pie pan and trim any excess dough hanging over the edges. Pour the sweet potato filling into the crust evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until set—a toothpick inserted should come out clean from the center. The edges will be golden brown while the middle remains slightly jiggly; don’t worry! It will firm up as it cools.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Once baked, allow your sweet potato pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into it. Serve with dollops of whipped cream on top for that classic touch! Enjoy every bite with friends and family—it’s bound to become a favorite!

Now you’re ready to whip up this delightful Sweet Potato Pie! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Pie

Making sweet potato pie can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for firm, medium-sized sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. The natural sweetness of fresh sweet potatoes enhances your pie’s overall taste.

• Pre-bake the crust: A quick pre-bake of your pie crust (about 10-15 minutes) helps avoid a soggy bottom. This step ensures that your crust remains flaky and crispy, especially when filled with the creamy sweet potato filling.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Let your eggs and butter sit out before mixing to reach room temperature. This promotes even blending and creates a smoother filling, resulting in a beautifully textured pie.

• Spice it up: Don’t shy away from adjusting spices to suit your taste! A pinch more cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg can personalize the flavors to make your pie truly unique and comforting.

• Cool completely before serving: Allow your pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This cooling period helps the filling set properly, making it easier to serve clean slices.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie is not just delicious; it’s also a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table. Here are some creative ideas on how to present this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that balances the richness of the pie perfectly.
• Cinnamon dust: Lightly sprinkle some ground cinnamon on top of your whipped cream for an aromatic finish that enhances flavor.
• Chopped pecans: Toasted pecans not only add a crunch but also bring an earthy flavor that harmonizes beautifully with sweet potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Green bean casserole: This classic dish combines tender green beans with creamy mushroom sauce and crispy fried onions, providing a savory contrast to the sweetness of the pie.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until caramelized. Their slight bitterness pairs well with the rich flavors of sweet potato pie.
• Cranberry sauce: A tart cranberry sauce can cut through the sweetness of the pie, adding a refreshing zing that brightens each bite.
• Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread complements the flavors of sweet potato without overwhelming them, making it an excellent addition to your holiday spread.

Now you’re all set to create magic in your kitchen with this delightful sweet potato pie recipe! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet potato pie is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal dessert for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it properly to enjoy later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the pie is completely cooled.
• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for extra protection.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap or foil from the pie.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Serve with fresh whipped cream.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making sweet potato pie.

What is the best way to make a Sweet Potato Pie?

The best way to make a sweet potato pie is by using fresh sweet potatoes, roasting them until tender, and blending them with warm spices and brown sugar for a rich flavor. Follow this recipe closely for delicious results!

Can I use other types of sweeteners in my Sweet Potato Pie?

Yes! You can substitute dark brown sugar with maple syrup, coconut sugar, or even honey if you prefer a different sweetness profile. Just remember that this may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I ensure my Sweet Potato Pie has a smooth filling?

To achieve a smooth filling, make sure to mash the cooked sweet potatoes thoroughly or blend them until creamy. Sifting dry ingredients can also help prevent lumps in your mixture.

Final Thoughts

This homemade sweet potato pie recipe is not just delicious; it’s filled with warmth and tradition that brings family together. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! It’s perfect for any occasion, so don’t hesitate to whip one up and share it with loved ones. Happy baking!