Sweet Potato Pie

If you’re looking for a delicious way to celebrate the season, this Sweet Potato Pie is just what you need! It’s become a cherished tradition in my home, bringing warmth and joy to family gatherings and cozy nights alike. The creamy filling, infused with dark brown sugar and fragrant spices, is utterly irresistible. Plus, it’s a wonderful dessert for Thanksgiving or any occasion where you want to share something special with loved ones.

This old-fashioned sweet potato pie is not only a treat for the taste buds but also surprisingly simple to whip up. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy more moments with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family Favorite: Its rich flavor will have everyone asking for seconds—trust me!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare this sweet potato pie in advance, so you can relax and enjoy your celebration.
• Versatile Flavor: The warm spices create a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen and invites everyone to gather around.
• Deliciously Whipped Cream Topping: Topped with fresh whipped cream, this pie becomes an unforgettable dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful sweet potato pie. Each one plays an important role in creating that comforting flavor we all love!

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 Egg Wash

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk

For Serving

• whipped cream

Variations

This Sweet Potato Pie recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Chocolate: Stir in chocolate chips into the filling for a delightful twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Top the pie with chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for added texture.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cardamom or allspice if you want a unique flavor profile.
• Coconut Cream: Replace some of the evaporated milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by peeling and chopping the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a pot of water until they are tender. This usually takes about 20 minutes. Cooking them first makes sure they blend smoothly later on!

Step 2: Make the Pie Crust

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water and grape juice until dough forms. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes—this helps it become flaky!

Step 3: Blend the Filling

Once your sweet potatoes are soft, drain them and return them to the pot. Add softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until smooth; this step combines flavors beautifully!

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Roll out your chilled pie crust on a floured surface and fit it into your pie pan. Pour in the sweet potato filling evenly. Beat an egg with milk and brush it over the crust to give it that lovely golden color while baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake your pie for about 90 minutes or until set in the center. Let it cool completely before serving—it allows those flavors to deepen even more!

Now you’ve got a homemade Sweet Potato Pie that will surely impress everyone around your table! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Pie

Making the perfect sweet potato pie can be a delightful adventure, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to impressing everyone at your gathering!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for sweet potatoes that are firm and smooth. This ensures a creamy filling and enhances the natural sweetness of your pie.

• Use cold ingredients: Keep your butter and other dairy products cold until you’re ready to use them. This helps create a flaky crust, giving you that perfect texture we all love in pies.

• Don’t skip the spices: The warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg are essential for that comforting fall flavor. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste for a personalized touch!

• Bake until set: Make sure to bake the pie until it’s just set in the center—a little jiggle is okay! It will continue to firm up as it cools, ensuring a silky texture.

• Let it cool completely: Patience is key! Allowing your pie to cool fully before slicing helps maintain its shape and makes for cleaner slices.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Presenting your sweet potato pie beautifully can enhance the overall experience. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving dinner or a cozy family gathering, here are some ideas to make it shine!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds lightness and balances the richness of the pie.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top can elevate both flavor and presentation.
• Chopped pecans: Toasted pecans add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Side Dishes

• Green bean casserole: This classic dish brings a savory element that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of your pie.
• Cranberry sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce complements the rich flavors of sweet potato pie, creating a delightful balance.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a crispy texture and earthy flavor, making them an excellent accompaniment.
• Stuffing: A hearty stuffing with herbs can provide a savory contrast to the dessert’s sweetness, rounding out your holiday meal perfectly.

Now that you’re armed with tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to create an unforgettable sweet potato pie experience this holiday season! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet potato pie is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy it without the last-minute rush. Here’s how you can store it and keep it fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your pie, make sure it’s fully cooled.
• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap and place the pie in an oven-safe dish.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Serve with fresh whipped cream for an extra touch!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making sweet potato pie that might help you along your baking journey.

What makes this Sweet Potato Pie recipe special?

This sweet potato pie recipe stands out due to its use of dark brown sugar and a blend of warm spices, creating a rich flavor profile that perfectly captures the essence of fall. It’s a family favorite that brings everyone together during the holidays!

Can I make Sweet Potato Pie without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with alternatives such as unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). This will help maintain the texture while keeping it suitable for those avoiding eggs.

What is the best way to prepare sweet potatoes for this pie?

The best way is to peel and boil sweet potatoes until tender, which usually takes about 30 minutes. You can also bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about an hour until soft. Both methods work well; just make sure they are cool enough to handle before mashing.

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

Your pie is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will continue to firm up as it cools. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.

Final Thoughts

This sweet potato pie recipe is truly special—it’s a delightful combination of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. I hope you enjoy making this treat as much as I do! Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or just a cozy evening at home, this pie is sure to impress your loved ones. Happy baking!