Just when you thought sweet potato pie couldn’t get any better, this Southern-style recipe comes along to prove you wrong. Packed with flavor, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress, this pie is the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and everything nice.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of spices brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes without overpowering them.
- Using fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned ensures a richer, more authentic flavor.
- The crust is flaky and buttery, providing the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
- It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted for various dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
- Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any day you need a little comfort food.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch pie dish
- Oven
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven heats up, peel and cube your sweet potatoes. Boil them until tender, about 15 minutes, then mash them until smooth. Tip: For an extra smooth filling, run the mashed potatoes through a food processor.
Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Use an electric mixer or whisk to blend everything until smooth. Tip: Taste the filling before adding it to the crust to adjust the spices to your liking.
Fill the Pie Crust
Pour the sweet potato mixture into the unbaked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed to ensure uniform cooking.
Bake to Perfection
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Tip: If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. This waiting period helps the filling set properly, making it easier to slice.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their sweet potato pie game, consider roasting the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them for a deeper flavor. Another pro tip is to blind bake the pie crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling to prevent a soggy bottom. If you’re short on time, using a high-quality store-bought pie crust can save you time without compromising taste. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil. Lastly, garnishing the pie with whipped cream or pecans adds a nice touch of elegance and texture.
Recipe Variations
- Add a layer of pecans on top before baking for a crunchy texture.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of bourbon into the filling for an adult twist.
- Swap out the granulated sugar for brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like sweetness.
- Use a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust for a different flavor profile.
- Top the baked pie with marshmallows and broil for a few seconds for a sweet potato casserole-inspired version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
While you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch, fresh sweet potatoes will give your pie a superior flavor and texture. If you do opt for canned, make sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar accordingly, as they’re often packed in syrup.
How do I store leftover pie?
Leftover pie can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pie actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Just bake as directed, cool completely, and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Summary
This Southern-style sweet potato pie is a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a blend of warm spices, all nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this pie is sure to please.