A slice of Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie is the epitome of Southern comfort. The creamy sweet potato filling, delicately spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, melts in your mouth, while a hint of bourbon adds a warm, caramelized depth of flavor. The flaky, buttery crust provides the perfect contrast, making every bite a delight. This pie is a showstopper for holiday tables, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Serve it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something new, this recipe is a foolproof way to impress your guests with a classic yet elevated dessert.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, heavy cream, eggs, bourbon, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in melted butter until fully incorporated.
- Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per slice | Servings: 8
Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie: A Southern Classic with a Rich Twist
When it comes to soul-warming, indulgent desserts, nothing quite matches the charm of a Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie. This delightful dessert is deeply rooted in Southern cuisine, offering a luscious, spiced filling made with creamy sweet potatoes, a touch of bourbon, and a flaky homemade crust. It’s the perfect balance of earthy sweetness, warm spices, and a hint of boozy sophistication that makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just craving a comforting treat, this Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie is a must-try. Let’s dive into the history, benefits, and reasons why this recipe should be at the top of your baking list.
The History of Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet potato pie has been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations. It has strong ties to African American culinary traditions and dates back to the colonial era when sweet potatoes were commonly used as an alternative to pumpkin in pies. Unlike pumpkin pie, which has a more neutral taste, sweet potato pie has a naturally rich, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. The addition of bourbon to this classic dessert adds a new layer of depth and complexity. Bourbon, a whiskey native to Kentucky, enhances the caramel and vanilla notes in the pie while complementing the sweetness of the potatoes. This twist on a traditional recipe creates a gourmet yet approachable dessert that embodies the heart of Southern hospitality.
Why This Recipe Is the Best
There are countless reasons why this Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie stands out among other desserts:
1. Deep, Rich Flavor
- The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes combined with brown sugar and bourbon creates a filling that is smooth, velvety, and packed with complex flavors. The hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla further enhance its warmth.
2. A Perfectly Buttery Crust
- The crust in this recipe is perfectly flaky, tender, and buttery—holding the filling together while adding the right amount of crispiness to each bite.
3. Easy to Make
- Unlike some elaborate pies, this one requires just a few simple steps. No need for complicated techniques or excessive ingredients.
4. Healthier Than Other Desserts
- Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Compared to traditional pies loaded with processed sugars and fats, this one is a nutrient-rich dessert with natural sweetness.
5. A Versatile Holiday Treat
- Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie is a fantastic alternative to pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving and Christmas. It also makes for an excellent dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties.
Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes
This pie isn’t just delicious—it also has some surprising health benefits, thanks to its star ingredient: sweet potatoes.
Rich in Nutrients
- Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber, which support vision, immune function, and digestion.
Natural Sweetness
- Unlike refined sugars, sweet potatoes provide a more balanced sweetness, reducing the need for excessive sugar.
Supports Gut Health
- The fiber in sweet potatoes promotes healthy digestion and gut bacteria.
Provides Antioxidants
- Sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene, an antioxidant that helps protect against oxidative stress.
A Great Source of Energy
- Their complex carbohydrates provide a steady release of energy, keeping you full longer.
Tips for Making the Best Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie
To achieve the perfect Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie, follow these expert tips:
Use Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Roasting sweet potatoes instead of boiling them enhances their natural sweetness and caramelization. It also keeps them from getting too watery, which helps maintain a creamy and thick pie filling.
Choose the Right Bourbon
- Use a high-quality bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes. Some great options include Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, or Buffalo Trace. The alcohol mostly bakes out, leaving behind deep, smoky flavors.
Blind Bake the Crust
- To avoid a soggy bottom, partially bake the crust before adding the filling. This keeps the crust crispy and golden brown.
Don’t Overmix the Filling
- Overmixing introduces too much air into the batter, leading to cracks in the pie after baking. Mix gently until just combined.
Let It Cool Before Serving
- For the best texture, allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly, ensuring clean slices.
How to Serve Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie
This pie is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to elevate your serving presentation:
- With Whipped Cream – A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds lightness and balances the pie’s richness.
- Drizzle of Caramel or Maple Syrup – Enhance the caramelized flavors with a drizzle of warm caramel or pure maple syrup.
- A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream – The creamy, cool contrast makes it an even more indulgent treat.
- Candied Pecans on Top – For added crunch, sprinkle candied pecans over the pie before serving.
How to Store and Make Ahead
Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie stores well, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for the holidays.
- In the Refrigerator: Store the pie covered in plastic wrap or foil for up to 4 days.
- In the Freezer: Wrap the baked and cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- To Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or serve cold!
Common Questions About Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie
Can I Make It Without Bourbon?
- Yes! Simply omit the bourbon or replace it with vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.
Can I Use Canned Sweet Potatoes?
- While fresh, roasted sweet potatoes are best, you can use canned (unsweetened, drained, and mashed) as a shortcut.
What’s the Difference Between Sweet Potato Pie and Pumpkin Pie?
- Sweet potato pie has a smoother, creamier texture and naturally sweet taste, while pumpkin pie is milder and relies more on spices.
Can I Make This Pie Dairy-Free?
- Yes! Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use vegan butter to make it dairy-free.
Conclusion
This Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie is a dessert that embodies comfort, tradition, and a touch of indulgence. The smooth, rich filling paired with warm spices and a buttery crust makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. If you’re looking for a Southern-inspired dessert that’s easy to make, naturally flavorful, and full of depth, this pie is the perfect choice. Serve it during the holidays, at family gatherings, or whenever you need a slice of something sweet and satisfying. So go ahead, bake this delicious pie, and enjoy every warm, spiced, bourbon-kissed bite!
