Sweet Potato Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s bound to impress your family and friends this Thanksgiving, look no further than this homemade sweet potato pie! This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a true labor of love. With its rich flavors from dark brown sugar and cozy spices, it captures the essence of fall in every bite. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy family dinners, or even just a special treat after a busy week. Trust me; once you serve this sweet potato pie, it will quickly become a cherished favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The steps are simple and straightforward, making it great for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Everyone loves sweet potato pie! Its sweet, spiced filling is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this pie in advance, so you can enjoy more time with your loved ones on special occasions.
• Versatile Dessert: It’s not just for Thanksgiving—this pie is delightful year-round!
• Homemade Whipped Cream: Adding fresh whipped cream on top elevates the experience to a whole new level of deliciousness!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is part of the fun! For this sweet potato pie, we’ll be using some simple, wholesome items that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s get started!

For the 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 best things about sweet potato pie is how flexible it can be! If you want to switch things up a bit, here are some fun variations to try:

• Add a Twist of Citrus: Incorporate some orange zest into the filling for a bright flavor boost.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for added texture.
• Spice it Up: Try adding a dash of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.
• Sweet Potato Swirl: Blend in some pumpkin puree to create a delightful sweet potato-pumpkin hybrid pie!

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by making your crust. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial; cold butter creates that flaky texture we love in pies. Gradually add ice water and white grape juice until the dough comes together. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Next up, let’s cook our sweet potatoes! Peel and chop them into chunks, then boil them in water until tender—about 15-20 minutes should do it. This step helps to soften them so they mash easily later. Once cooked, drain and mash them until smooth.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another bowl, mix your mashed sweet potatoes with softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s completely combined. The mixture should be creamy and fragrant—this is what makes our sweet potato pie so special!

Step 4: Assemble Your Pie

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your chilled crust on a floured surface and fit it into a pie dish. Pour your luscious filling into the crust evenly. To give it that golden finish when baked, whisk an egg with milk and brush it over the edges of your crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your pie in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until set. The filling should be firm yet slightly jiggly in the center when done—don’t worry; it will continue to firm up as it cools! Once out of the oven, let it cool completely before serving.

Now all that’s left is to slice up this beautiful sweet potato pie and dollop on some whipped cream. Enjoy sharing this warm slice of comfort with those you love!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Pie

Making sweet potato pie can be a delightful experience, and a few simple tips can help you achieve the perfect pie every time!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for firm, smooth sweet potatoes without blemishes. They will yield a sweeter and creamier filling, making your pie truly irresistible.

• Use cold ingredients for the crust: Ensure your butter is cold when making the pie crust. This helps create a flaky texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

• Don’t overmix the filling: Combine your ingredients just until blended. Overmixing can introduce air into the filling, which may lead to cracks as it bakes.

• Pre-bake your crust: Give your crust a head start by pre-baking it for about 10 minutes. This keeps it from getting soggy when you add the filling and helps achieve that perfect golden color.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allow the pie to cool completely before cutting into it. This helps the filling set properly, making those slices much neater and more appealing.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dessert at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh whipped cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the rich filling perfectly.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top enhances the warm flavors in the pie while adding an inviting aroma.
• Chopped pecans: Toasted pecans bring an extra crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Green bean casserole: This classic dish features tender green beans baked with creamy mushroom soup and crispy fried onions—an excellent contrast to the sweetness of the pie.
• Mashed sweet potatoes: For sweet potato lovers, buttery mashed sweet potatoes make a hearty side that echoes the flavors in your dessert.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts balances out the sweetness of the pie, creating a harmonious meal.
• Apple cider glazed carrots: These vibrant carrots are caramelized with apple cider, providing a tangy yet sweet side that enhances your Thanksgiving spread.

Now you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this delectable sweet potato pie! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sweet Potato Pie is perfect for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones during the holidays. Whether you’re planning for Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner, here’s how to handle the leftovers and keep this delightful dessert fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Enjoy slices cold or at room temperature.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your Sweet Potato Pie, make sure it’s completely cooled.
• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any wrapping from the pie and place it on a baking sheet.
• Reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sweet Potato Pie:

How do I make Sweet Potato Pie from scratch?

Making Sweet Potato Pie from scratch involves preparing a flaky crust, cooking sweet potatoes until tender, and blending them with spices, sugar, eggs, and evaporated milk. Follow this recipe step-by-step for a delicious homemade dessert!

Can I use other sweeteners instead of dark brown sugar for Sweet Potato Pie?

Yes! You can substitute dark brown sugar with light brown sugar or coconut sugar. However, keep in mind that these may slightly alter the flavor profile.

What is the best way to store leftover Sweet Potato Pie?

The best way to store leftover Sweet Potato Pie is by covering it tightly and placing it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored properly.

Can I freeze my Sweet Potato Pie?

Absolutely! After cooling completely, wrap it tightly and freeze. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your holiday gatherings! Making Sweet Potato Pie is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about creating memories with friends and family around the table. Enjoy every slice of this delightful treat, and don’t hesitate to share your own experiences or variations! Happy baking!