As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin their vibrant descent, thoughts of cozy gatherings and delicious home-cooked desserts fill the heart. It was during one such gentle fall afternoon that I discovered the joy of making Southern Sweet Potato Pie. This isn’t just any pie; it’s a harmonious blend of creamy sweet potatoes, warm spices, and a rich, flaky crust that envelops every bite in comfort.
Picture the mesmerizing aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through your kitchen, instantly bringing family and friends to the table. What I love most about this Sweet Potato Pie recipe is its effortless charm—whether you whip up a homemade crust or grab a store-bought option, it comes together in no time. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall celebration, it’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug, promising satisfaction and joy from the first slice to the last crumb. Let’s dive in and create a dessert that’s sure to impress!
Why is this Sweet Potato Pie Recipe a must-try?
Irresistible Taste: The rich and creamy filling, combined with warm spices, creates a dessert that dance on the palate, evoking feelings of nostalgia and comfort.
Simple Preparation: You can prepare this pie even if you’re short on time, thanks to its straightforward ingredients and easy steps.
Versatile Options: Whether you go for a homemade or store-bought crust, this recipe accommodates your preference while still delivering flavor.
Perfect for Gatherings: An absolute crowd-pleaser, this pie stands out on any holiday table, ready to impress your family and friends.
Nutrient-Rich: Utilizing sweet potatoes means you’re indulging in a dessert that’s not only delicious but also packed with vitamins.
With its delightful flavors, this Sweet Potato Pie is destined to become a new favorite at your gatherings, so don’t forget to check out our tips for an unforgettable finish!
Sweet Potato Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
- Sweet Potatoes – 3 large or 2 cups pureed, these are the star of your sweet potato pie recipe, providing natural sweetness and creaminess.
- Dark Brown Sugar – ½ cup, packed; it enhances the sweetness with a delightful hint of molasses flavor.
- Granulated Sugar – ½ cup; this balances the sweetness and elevates the pie’s overall flavor.
- Butter – ¼ cup, melted; it adds richness and a delicious buttery note to your filling.
- Heavy Cream – ¼ cup; this contributes a velvety smooth texture to the filling.
- Eggs – 2 large plus 1 egg yolk; they act as a binder, giving your pie the structure it needs.
- Vanilla Extract – 1 tablespoon; it brings a depth of flavor that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
- Ground Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon; a warm spice that enhances the overall flavor profile of the pie.
- Salt – ½ teaspoon; this balances sweetness and amplifies all the flavors.
- Ground Nutmeg – ⅓ teaspoon; adds a warm, aromatic touch that’s perfect for fall desserts.
- Ground Cloves – ⅓ teaspoon; this provides a warm, slightly sweet flavor that rounds out the spice blend.
For the Crust
- Pie Crust – 1 store-bought or homemade; serves as the base for the creamy filling and can be customized to your texture preference.
With these ingredients, your Sweet Potato Pie will not only be a treat for the taste buds but also an embodiment of warmth and comfort at your gatherings. Enjoy the deliciousness!
How to Make Sweet Potato Pie
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Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a perfectly baked pie crust and filling.
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Prepare sweet potatoes: Take 3 large sweet potatoes, poke holes with a fork, drizzle lightly with oil, and bake on a foil-lined baking sheet for 30-40 minutes until fork-tender.
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Cool and puree: Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, peel the skin off and blend the flesh in a blender until smooth, resulting in a creamy texture.
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Lower oven temperature: Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C), as this will be the perfect baking temperature for your pie.
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Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of pureed sweet potato with ½ cup of dark brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of melted butter, ¼ cup of heavy cream, 2 large eggs, 1 egg yolk, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and spices (1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon salt, ⅓ teaspoon nutmeg, and ⅓ teaspoon cloves) until well blended.
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Prepare the crust: Take a 9-inch pie pan and spray it with non-stick spray. Press your pie crust into the pan and poke the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
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Assemble and bake: Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared crust and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and doesn’t jiggle when gently tapped.
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Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!
Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving for an added sweet touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Southern Sweet Potato Pie?
As you prepare to delight your guests with this heartwarming dessert, let’s explore some perfect accompaniments that will elevate your feast.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy finish that complements the creamy richness of the pie beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the warm spices, making every bite feel like a decadent treat.
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Pecan Topping: Sprinkle toasted pecans over the pie for an added crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet potato filling.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider invites the comfort of autumn into your gathering, balancing the sweetness of the pie with its fragrant spices.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce adds an indulgent touch, enhancing the sweetness and offering a luscious texture that tempts the taste buds.
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Coffee or Tea: A cup of robust coffee or fragrant tea serves as a delightful complement, allowing the dessert’s flavors to shine while providing a cozy escape.
These pairings will not only enhance the experience of your Southern Sweet Potato Pie but will also create a delightful dining atmosphere that everyone will cherish. Enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Potato Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holidays! You can prepare the sweet potato filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the pureed sweet potatoes with sugars, butter, cream, eggs, and spices, then refrigerate in an airtight container to prevent browning. The crust can also be prepped ahead—if using a homemade crust, roll it out and place it in the pie pan, then cover with plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just pour in the filling and bake as directed. You’ll enjoy a delicious pie with minimal effort, making your gatherings more enjoyable and stress-free!
Sweet Potato Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and explore delightful twists that elevate your sweet potato pie experience!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk or coconut cream for heavy cream for a lighter, plant-based option.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this pie suitable for gluten-sensitive guests—you won’t miss the traditional crust at all!
- Spiced Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or black pepper to the filling for a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness.
- Nutty Delight: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Extra Sweetness: Incorporate 1/4 cup of maple syrup in place of some brown sugar for a unique flavor twist and extra richness.
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the filling before baking for a dessert that satisfies both sweet potato and chocolate cravings.
- Pumpkin Fusion: Blend in 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin with the sweet potato puree for a creamy autumnal hybrid pie that everyone will love.
- Zesty Kick: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the filling for a bright pop of flavor that refreshes each bite.
Embrace the joy of baking by putting your personal stamp on this classic recipe!
Expert Tips for Your Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
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Cool Sweet Potatoes: Ensure sweet potatoes are fully cooled before pureeing for a smoother filling texture in your sweet potato pie recipe.
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Baking Temperature: Don’t forget to lower the oven temperature after baking the sweet potatoes; this helps achieve a perfectly set filling without overbaking.
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Flavor Melding: For a richer taste, let your pie sit for a day or two in the fridge before serving; the flavors will meld beautifully over time.
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Watch the Clock: Keep an eye on your pie during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent it from overcooking and cracking.
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Easy Crust Option: If you’re short on time, opt for a store-bought pie crust; it’s a delicious shortcut that doesn’t compromise flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Pie
Fridge: Store leftover sweet potato pie in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain its delicious flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to warm through and restore its creamy texture.
Room Temperature: If serving immediately, sweet potato pie can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours; after that, refrigerate to ensure freshness.
Sweet Potato Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe sweet potatoes for the pie?
Absolutely! When choosing sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm with smooth skin. Avoid those with dark spots, blemishes, or soft areas. The ideal sweet potato should feel heavy for its size and have a rich, orange color, indicating sweetness and flavor.
How should I store leftover sweet potato pie?
You can store any leftover sweet potato pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing it up, as this helps maintain its delicious texture. If you want to keep it longer, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and place it in the freezer where it can last for up to a month.
Can I freeze sweet potato pie, and what’s the best way to do it?
Yes, you can! To freeze your sweet potato pie, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore its creamy texture.
What should I do if my pie filling is too runny?
If your sweet potato pie filling seems too runny, it could be due to insufficiently cooled sweet potatoes or not enough binding ingredients. Ensure your sweet potatoes are cool when pureeing to achieve a smooth texture without extra moisture. If you find your mixture still too loose post-mixing, consider adding an extra egg yolk to help bind the filling together before baking.
Is this sweet potato pie recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Very much so! If you’re catering to gluten-free diets, simply opt for a gluten-free crust. Most grocery stores now offer a range of gluten-free pie crust options, or you could easily make your own using alternative flours like almond flour or oat flour. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious Southern dessert without worry!
Can I use a different type of milk instead of heavy cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter version of your sweet potato pie, you can substitute almond milk or coconut milk for heavy cream. Do keep in mind that this may slightly alter the pie’s texture, but it will still taste wonderfully delicious!
Sweet Potato Pie Recipe That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Poke holes in 3 large sweet potatoes, drizzle with oil, and bake on a foil-lined baking sheet for 30-40 minutes until fork-tender.
- Cool the sweet potatoes, peel, and blend until smooth.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix 2 cups pureed sweet potato with sugars, melted butter, heavy cream, eggs, yolk, vanilla, and spices until well blended.
- Prepare a 9-inch pie pan with non-stick spray, press the crust into the pan and poke the bottom.
- Pour the filling into the crust and bake for 45-50 minutes, until the center is set.
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve with whipped cream if desired.