Sweet Potato Pie

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that brings everyone together, you’ve found it with this Sweet Potato Pie! This recipe comes straight from my grandmother’s kitchen, where the sweet aroma of spices would fill the air during the holidays. There’s something undeniably special about baking a pie from scratch—it’s like wrapping your loved ones in a warm hug. Perfect for family gatherings or even just a busy weeknight treat, this Sweet Potato Pie is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.

The combination of rich sweet potatoes and warm spices creates a delightful flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s super easy to make! So roll up those sleeves and let’s dive into this wonderful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you’ll have a delicious pie ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, comforting flavors.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy dinner at home, this pie fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and impress your guests with minimal last-minute stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sweet Potato Pie is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that rich, comforting flavor we all crave during the holidays.

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 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

One of the best parts about making Sweet Potato Pie is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative and add your personal touch.

• Add Some Zest: Incorporate some orange zest into the filling for a fresh citrus twist.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor profile.
• Nutty Crust: Toss some finely chopped nuts into your crust for an added crunch.
• Chocolate Lovers Delight: Swirl in some melted chocolate into the filling for a decadent twist!

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by mixing together your flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Cut in the cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key; cold butter helps create that flaky texture we love in pies. Slowly add ice water and grape juice until combined. Roll out your dough on a floured surface, then fit it into a pie dish. Chill while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Boil or bake your sweet potatoes until they’re fork-tender. Once cooled, peel them and mash them up until smooth. This creates that creamy base we want for our filling. Be sure not to skip this step—perfectly cooked sweet potatoes make all the difference!

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, spices, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until smooth and well-blended. The warm spices will infuse so much flavor into your pie!

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour your filling into the prepared crust. In a small bowl, whisk together one egg and milk; brush this mixture over the crust edges for a beautiful golden finish while baking. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 90 minutes or until set—not jiggly!

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let your Sweet Potato Pie cool to room temperature before topping with whipped cream. This not only makes serving easier but also allows those lovely flavors to meld together perfectly.

And there you have it—your very own homemade Sweet Potato Pie! Enjoy sharing this delightful dessert with friends and family; I promise they will love every bite!

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 firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes without blemishes. This will ensure a creamy filling and enhance the flavor of your pie.

• Don’t skip the cooling time: Allow your baked sweet potato pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set properly, resulting in cleaner slices and better presentation.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch more cinnamon or ginger can take your pie to the next level!

• Use cold ingredients for the crust: Ensure that your butter and water are cold when making the pie crust. This helps create a flaky texture, which is essential for a delicious pie.

• Cover the edges: If you notice that the edges of your crust are browning too quickly during baking, cover them with aluminum foil. This prevents burning while allowing the rest of the pie to bake thoroughly.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Serving sweet potato pie is an opportunity to make it even more inviting and enjoyable for everyone at your table! Here are some creative ideas:

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich filling.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon over the whipped cream or directly on the pie can enhance its warm flavors and add visual appeal.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts on top just before serving. It brings both texture and flavor to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Green bean casserole: This classic dish adds a savory contrast to the sweetness of your pie. The creamy texture and crispy topping balance perfectly!

• Cranberry sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of sweet potato pie. Plus, it adds a beautiful pop of color to your plate!

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy veggies provide a deliciously earthy side that complements the warm spices in your pie while adding nutritional value to your meal.

• Cornbread: A slice of cornbread offers a slightly sweet and crumbly texture that pairs wonderfully with sweet potato pie, creating a comforting Southern vibe on your Thanksgiving table.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your guests with a delightful homemade sweet potato pie this holiday season! Enjoy every moment spent together around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet potato pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of the season without the last-minute rush. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep fresh for up to 4 days.
• If you want to preserve the crust’s texture, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen 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 and cover the pie with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions to help you on your sweet potato pie journey!

What is Sweet Potato Pie made of?

Sweet Potato Pie is made from a blend of creamy sweet potatoes, dark brown sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, all baked into a flaky crust.

How do I make Sweet Potato Pie from scratch?

To make Sweet Potato Pie from scratch, start by preparing a homemade crust with flour, butter, sugar, and salt. For the filling, mash cooked sweet potatoes and mix them with dark brown sugar, eggs, spices, and evaporated milk before pouring it into the crust and baking until set.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes! Canned sweet potatoes can be used as a convenient substitute. Just drain them well and mash them before adding to your pie filling mixture.

Final Thoughts

This sweet potato pie recipe is more than just dessert; it’s a heartwarming tradition that brings everyone together during the holidays. I hope you find joy in making this delightful treat for your loved ones. May each bite remind you of cozy gatherings and cherished memories. Enjoy every moment in the kitchen—and remember to savor that delicious slice when it’s ready!