Sweet Potato Pie

If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that will steal the show this Thanksgiving, you’ve come to the right place! This homemade sweet potato pie is a cherished family recipe that I absolutely adore. It’s filled with the warm flavors of fall, thanks to dark brown sugar and a medley of spices that make every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to treat yourself on a busy weeknight, this sweet potato pie is perfect for any occasion.

What truly makes this pie special is its creamy texture and rich taste. It’s an old-fashioned favorite that brings back memories of cozy gatherings around the dinner table. Plus, it’s easy to make and sure to impress everyone who tries it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes and spices creates a rich, comforting taste that captures the essence of autumn.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this sweet treat, making it perfect for gatherings with family and friends.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you can whip up this pie without any fuss.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the pie ahead of time, leaving you stress-free when it’s time to serve dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple and wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delightful sweet potato pie. These pantry staples are easy to find and will have your kitchen smelling amazing in no time!

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 Sweet Potato 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

This sweet potato pie recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen! Here are some fun variations you might try:

• Add more spice: Increase the amount of cinnamon or add in some allspice for an extra kick!
• Mix in chocolate: Stir in some chocolate chips with your filling for a decadent twist on this classic dessert.
• Use different sweeteners: Substitute some or all of the dark brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it nutty: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for added crunch and flavor.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by mixing together your flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Cut in the cold butter until your mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Then add ice water and white grape juice gradually until the dough holds together. Chilling it in the fridge while preparing your filling will help ensure it’s flaky!

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Boil your sweet potatoes until they’re tender. This usually takes about 30 minutes. Once cooked, let them cool slightly before peeling them. This step is crucial because soft sweet potatoes create a creamy filling.

Step 3: Make Your Filling

In a mixing bowl, mash those sweet potatoes until smooth. Add softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, spices, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined. This filling is what makes your pie so deliciously rich!

Step 4: Assemble Your Pie

Roll out your chilled dough into a circle that fits into your pie dish. Pour in that luscious filling you just made! To give it a beautiful finish, whisk together an egg with milk and brush this over the crust’s edge before baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 90 minutes or until set. The aroma wafting through your home will be irresistible! Let it cool before serving with freshly whipped cream on top.

Enjoy your homemade sweet potato pie with loved ones—it’s sure to become a new favorite tradition!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Pie

Making sweet potato pie can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for sweet potatoes that feel heavy and firm. They should have smooth skin without any blemishes, which indicates freshness and sweetness.

• Use Cold Ingredients for the Crust: Keeping your butter and water cold will help create a flaky crust. The cold fat creates steam during baking, which is essential for that perfect texture.

• Don’t Overbeat the Filling: When mixing the filling, beat just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in the pie as it bakes.

• Bake on a Lower Rack: Positioning your pie on a lower rack helps it bake evenly and prevents the crust from browning too quickly, allowing the filling to set nicely.

• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Let your pie cool completely at room temperature before slicing. This allows the filling to firm up, making for cleaner slices when you serve it.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Presenting your sweet potato pie beautifully will impress your guests and make your Thanksgiving table even more inviting. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dessert!

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the rich flavors of sweet potato pie.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful decorative element.
• Chopped Pecans: For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted pecans over the whipped cream. This gives an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish combines tender green beans with creamy mushroom sauce and crispy onions, creating a comforting balance to the sweetness of the pie.
• Cornbread: A slice of moist cornbread brings a slightly savory element that pairs perfectly with sweet potato pie’s rich flavors, making it an ideal companion on your holiday table.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized sprouts add a delicious nutty flavor and crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the pie.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of your pie, enhancing every bite with its bright flavor.

By following these tips and suggestions for serving, you’re sure to create an unforgettable dessert experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy your sweet potato pie!

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet potato pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it fresh or save some for later. Here’s how to store and handle your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap the completely cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• For best quality, consider slicing the pie before freezing for easier thawing.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making sweet potato pie that might help you out!

What is the best way to prepare sweet potatoes for Sweet Potato Pie?

The best way is to bake them! Simply pierce the skin with a fork, place them on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes until tender. This method enhances their natural sweetness and flavor.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones in my Sweet Potato Pie?

Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes as a time-saver! Just make sure to drain them well and mash them before incorporating them into your filling. The texture may be slightly different but will still yield a delicious pie.

How do I know when my Sweet Potato Pie is done baking?

Your pie is done when the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center. It should not be liquidy. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this sweet potato pie! Its warm spices and creamy filling make it a comforting dessert that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or any day of the year, this recipe brings warmth and happiness to your table. Enjoy every slice, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!