Sweet Potato Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that will bring warmth and joy to your table, you’ve come to the right place! This homemade Sweet Potato Pie is my go-to recipe for Thanksgiving gatherings and cozy family dinners. There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet potatoes, dark brown sugar, and warm spices that fills your home with delightful aromas. It’s not just a pie; it’s a tradition that brings everyone together.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet night in, this Sweet Potato Pie is sure to impress. With its creamy filling and flaky crust, it’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those sweet potatoes sitting in your pantry!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The rich taste of sweet potatoes paired with warm spices makes every bite comforting and satisfying.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, making this pie is simpler than you might think. Even novice bakers can whip it up!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this pie, making it an instant crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the pie ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy more moments with your loved ones on special occasions.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even just a cozy weeknight treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Sweet Potato Pie. You might even have most of them on hand already! 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 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 beautiful things about this Sweet Potato Pie recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the filling for a bright twist.
• Mix in nuts: Chop some pecans or walnuts and fold them into the filling for added crunch.
• Try different spices: Experiment with cardamom or allspice alongside the traditional spices for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it dairy-free: Swap out evaporated milk with coconut milk or any plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by making the pie crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water and white grape juice gradually until dough forms. Chill this dough while you prepare the filling — chilling helps create a tender crust!

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Next, peel and chop your sweet potatoes. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and mash until smooth. This step is crucial as it ensures your pie has that velvety texture we all love.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix together mashed sweet potatoes, softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, spices, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Each ingredient adds richness and depth of flavor to your pie.

Step 4: Assemble Your Pie

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your chilled dough into a circle and fit it into a pie dish. Pour in the sweet potato filling evenly. Beat an egg with milk for an egg wash and brush it over the crust edges — this will give your crust that lovely golden color when baked.

Step 5: Bake

Bake your pie in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until set in the middle. Let it cool before serving so that every slice holds its shape beautifully.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Top each slice with whipped cream before serving! Gather around with friends and family as you slice into this delightful Sweet Potato Pie — it’s sure to be cherished by everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Pie

Making a perfect sweet potato pie can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you shine in the kitchen!

• Use fresh sweet potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes add vibrant flavor and natural sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of your pie compared to canned alternatives.

• Chill your dough: Allowing your pie crust dough to chill ensures it becomes flaky and tender, preventing shrinkage during baking and maintaining its beautiful shape.

• Whip the filling well: Mixing your filling until it’s smooth ensures a creamy texture that melts in your mouth, making each bite utterly enjoyable.

• Don’t skip the spices: Measuring out warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg adds depth to your pie, creating that cozy, nostalgic flavor reminiscent of holidays spent with loved ones.

• Let it cool completely: Allowing the pie to cool fully before slicing helps it set properly. This way, you’ll get clean slices rather than a gooey mess when serving.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Presenting it creatively can elevate your dessert experience for family gatherings or holiday feasts.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and creamy contrast that complements the rich flavor of the pie.

• Toasted pecans: Sprinkling some toasted pecans on top provides a delightful crunch and enhances the nutty undertones of the sweet potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Green bean casserole: This classic dish brings together tender green beans with a creamy sauce and crispy topping, balancing the sweetness of the pie beautifully.

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The caramelized edges of roasted Brussels sprouts offer a savory contrast to your sweet dessert, making for an exciting flavor combination.

• Cranberry sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce provides brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the sweet potato pie, enhancing every bite.

• Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with rich desserts like this pie, creating a comforting Southern-inspired meal.

With these serving suggestions, your homemade sweet potato pie will not only taste heavenly but also impress everyone at your Thanksgiving table! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet potato pie is perfect for making ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the flavors without the stress on the day of your gathering. Here’s how to ensure your delicious pie stays fresh and tasty!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best flavor, consume within the first couple of days.

Freezing

• Cool the pie completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date so you can keep track!

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the pie from the freezer and unwrap it.
• Bake for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
• If reheating from the fridge, simply bake for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

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

How can I make my sweet potato pie more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor of your sweet potato pie by adding a bit more cinnamon or nutmeg than what is listed in the recipe. A splash of vanilla extract also works wonders!

What is the best way to prepare sweet potatoes for sweet potato pie?

For a smooth filling, steam or bake your sweet potatoes until tender, then mash them until smooth. Avoid boiling as it can add too much moisture!

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

Yes, using canned sweet potatoes is a convenient option! Just drain and mash them before incorporating them into your filling mixture.

Is this sweet potato pie suitable for special dietary needs?

This sweet potato pie recipe avoids pork and alcohol and uses non-animal derived ingredients, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Sweet Potato Pie! It brings together warm spices and comforting flavors that will surely impress your family and friends during any gathering. Be sure to share it with those you love—there’s nothing quite like homemade goodness at the holiday table. Happy baking!