Sweet Potato Pie

Introduction

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Southern cuisine with a homemade Sweet Potato Pie. This classic dessert combines the natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes with a hint of warm spices, all nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. Perfect for holidays or family gatherings, this pie is sure to become a crowd-pleaser.

Why Make This Recipe

Sweet Potato Pie is a beloved dessert that offers a unique twist to traditional pies. It is easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and captures the essence of cozy, home-cooked goodness. Whether you’re a fan of sweet potatoes or looking to try something new, this recipe is a must-try.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 and ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 4-6 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, baked and peeled
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• A pinch of salt

Directions

Creating the Crust:

1. Whisk together the flour and salt in a large bowl for the crust.
2. Cut in the chilled, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Preparing the Filling:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mash the baked sweet potatoes in a bowl until smooth.
3. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, spices, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Assembling and Baking:

1. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
2. Place the dough into the pie dish, trim excess, and pour in the sweet potato filling.
3. Bake for 45-50 minutes until set and golden brown.
4. Let the pie cool before serving.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Serve slices of Sweet Potato Pie warm or at room temperature. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

How to Store Sweet Potato Pie

Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 2 months.

Tips to Make Sweet Potato Pie

• Bake the sweet potatoes instead of boiling for a richer flavor.
• Use cold ingredients for the crust to ensure a flaky texture.
• Add a sprinkle of brown sugar or cinnamon on top before baking for extra sweetness.

Variation

For a twist, top the pie with a pecan streusel or marshmallow topping before baking for added crunch or sweetness.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe? Fresh sweet potatoes are recommended for the best flavor, but canned sweet potatoes can be used as a shortcut.
2. Can I make the pie crust ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the crust and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the pie.
3. Can I substitute the spices in the filling? Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences. Add more cinnamon for a warmer flavor or omit nutmeg if desired.