Sweet Potato Pie

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering, look no further than this homemade Sweet Potato Pie! This pie is more than just a treat; it’s a nostalgic recipe that fills your kitchen with the aroma of warm spices and sweet potatoes, making it perfect for Thanksgiving or any family celebration. Trust me, once you serve this pie, your friends and family will be asking for seconds—and even thirds!

What makes this Sweet Potato Pie truly special is its rich, creamy filling made from wholesome ingredients like dark brown sugar and a blend of cozy fall spices. Plus, it’s topped with fresh whipped cream for that extra touch of indulgence. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive occasion, this pie is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this pie in no time—even if you’re not an experienced baker!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and spiced flavors of sweet potato pie. It’s a dessert that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Delight: You can prepare the pie in advance, allowing you to enjoy more quality time with loved ones during the holidays.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm or chilled, plain or topped with whipped cream—each way is delicious!
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of spices brings out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, creating a comforting dish that feels like home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sweet Potato Pie uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Gather these essentials to create something truly special!

For the 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 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 Topping

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk
• whipped cream

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try if you’re feeling adventurous:

• Add a Twist: Incorporate chocolate chips into the filling for a decadent chocolate sweet potato pie.
• Mix in Citrus: Add some orange zest for a bright flavor that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
• Use Different Spices: Swap out cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice to give your pie a unique twist.
• Sweeten It Up: Try adding maple syrup in place of some of the brown sugar for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by making your crust. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial as it creates that flaky texture we all love! Gradually add ice water and grape juice until dough forms. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

While your crust chills, cook your sweet potatoes until tender. You can boil or bake them—either method works well! Once they are cool enough to handle, peel them and mash until smooth. This will create a creamy base for our filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another bowl, mix together mashed sweet potatoes with softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, spices, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well combined. This filling is what makes your Sweet Potato Pie so special—it’s rich and flavorful!

Step 4: Assemble Your Pie

Preheat your oven while you roll out your chilled crust onto a floured surface. Fit it into your pie dish and trim any excess dough. Pour in the sweet potato filling evenly. This step ensures every slice has that perfect creamy texture.

Step 5: Bake Until Perfect

Bake your pie at 350°F (175°C) for about 90 minutes or until set. The edges should be golden brown while keeping an eye on that beautiful custardy center! Allow cooling before serving.

Step 6: Serve with Love

Finally, brush with an egg wash mixed with milk before baking to give it that glossy finish! Serve each slice topped with freshly whipped cream for an unforgettable experience.

And there you have it—a deliciously comforting Sweet Potato Pie that’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering! Enjoy making this recipe as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Pie

Making sweet potato pie can be a delightful experience, especially with these handy tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly!

• Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for sweet potatoes that are firm and have smooth skin. The flavor and texture of your pie will greatly benefit from using fresh, high-quality ingredients.

• Blind Bake the Crust: Pre-baking your pie crust for about 10-15 minutes before adding the filling helps prevent it from getting soggy. This step ensures a crisp, flaky crust that holds up beautifully.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your butter and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother filling, leading to a creamier texture in your final pie.

• Don’t Overmix the Filling: Mix just until combined; overmixing can incorporate too much air into the filling, which might lead to cracks as it bakes. A gently mixed filling results in a more even texture.

• Cool Completely Before Serving: Let your sweet potato pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly, making it easier to cut clean slices and enhancing the flavors.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Serving sweet potato pie is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that balances the richness of the pie.
• Cinnamon Dusting: Sprinkle a little ground cinnamon on top for an aromatic finish that enhances the warm spices in the pie.
• Chopped Pecans: Toasted pecans not only add a crunchy texture but also bring out the nutty flavors of the sweet potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish with its creamy mushroom sauce and crispy onions adds a savory contrast to the sweetness of the pie.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and sea salt, roasted Brussels sprouts provide a deliciously caramelized bite that complements any holiday meal.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness of sweet potato pie, offering a refreshing balance on your plate.
• Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with sweet potato pie, enhancing those comforting Southern flavors.

Now you’re ready to impress your guests with this delightful sweet potato pie! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet potato pie is not only a delicious treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it, making your holiday gatherings even easier.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled pie in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label and date the package, then freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap and cover with aluminum foil.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

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

What’s the secret to a great Sweet Potato Pie?

The key to a great sweet potato pie lies in using fresh sweet potatoes and balancing the spices. Ensure your sweet potatoes are cooked until tender, and don’t skimp on the warm spices like cinnamon and ginger for that inviting flavor!

Can I use canned sweet potatoes for my Sweet Potato Pie?

Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes as a shortcut. Just drain them well and mash until smooth. However, fresh sweet potatoes will yield a more robust flavor and better texture.

How do I know when my Sweet Potato Pie is done baking?

Your pie is done when the center has set but still has a slight jiggle. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this sweet potato pie recipe! It’s a heartfelt dessert that brings warmth to any gathering. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy dinner at home, this pie is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Enjoy every slice, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me! Happy baking!