Sweet Potato Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that warms the heart and brings smiles to every gathering, this Sweet Potato Pie is just the ticket! There’s something incredibly comforting about the creamy texture and warm spices that fill your kitchen with the scent of fall. This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and it never fails to impress at Thanksgiving or any family gathering. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special!

Imagine serving this delightful pie with a cloud of fresh whipped cream on top, while your loved ones savor each bite. It’s a dish that invites conversation and laughter around the table—a true centerpiece for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, this Sweet Potato Pie comes together quickly, letting you enjoy more time with your family.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of dark brown sugar and warm spices creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet taste, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it a day in advance, saving time on busy holidays!
• Versatile Dessert: Great for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or cozy dinners at home—this pie fits every occasion perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Sweet Potato Pie is all about using wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Gather these simple items to get started on your delicious journey:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways you can change things up:

• Add a Nutty Twist: Mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with additional spices like allspice or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
• Sweeten with Maple Syrup: Swap out some of the dark brown sugar for maple syrup for a unique sweetness.
• Try Different Milk Options: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of evaporated milk for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by making your pie crust. In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water and white grape juice until dough forms. This step is crucial; it ensures your crust will be flaky and tender once baked!

Step 2: Pre-bake the Crust

Roll out the dough on a floured surface and fit it into a pie pan. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking. Pre-bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

While your crust bakes, peel and cube sweet potatoes. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. This step softens them up so they blend smoothly into your filling.

Step 4: Make the Filling

Drain and mash the sweet potatoes in a bowl. Mix in softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, spices, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until well blended. This filling is where all those warm flavors come together—it’s going to taste heavenly!

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the filling into your pre-baked crust. In a small bowl, whisk together one egg and milk; brush this mixture over the edge of your crust for a lovely golden color as it bakes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes until set.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let your pie cool completely before slicing—this helps it set even more! Serve each slice topped with fresh whipped cream for an unforgettable dessert experience.

Enjoy sharing this Sweet Potato Pie with those you love; it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Pie

Making the perfect sweet potato pie is easier than you think! Here are some expert tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh sweet potatoes: Freshly cooked sweet potatoes offer a natural sweetness and creaminess that canned varieties just can’t match. Roasting them enhances their flavor, making your pie even more delightful.

• Chill your dough: After mixing your pie crust ingredients, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent shrinkage during baking and results in a flaky texture.

• Don’t skip the spices: The warm spices—cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves—are what make this pie truly special. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste, but don’t omit them; they create that comforting fall aroma!

• Test for doneness: To check if your pie is done baking, insert a knife into the center. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached, it’s ready! Overbaking can lead to a dry filling.

• Let it cool completely: Allowing your sweet potato pie to cool completely before serving ensures that the filling sets properly. This makes slicing easier and enhances the overall flavor!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

When it comes to presenting your sweet potato pie, there are countless ways to elevate this already fabulous dessert. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or an intimate dinner, here are some ideas for serving.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of light whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top not only looks pretty but also boosts that warm spice flavor.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling a bit of caramel sauce over slices before serving can add an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Green bean casserole: This classic dish adds a savory contrast to the sweetness of the pie; its creamy sauce and crunchy topping are always crowd-pleasers.
• Stuffed acorn squash: Filled with quinoa, nuts, and cranberries, this dish offers a hearty yet healthy balance alongside the rich flavors of sweet potato pie.
• Cranberry sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of the pie, making for a well-rounded dessert experience.
• Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread can add a delightful texture and flavor combination, perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from your Thanksgiving dinner.

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

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet potato pie is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your pie to enjoy it at its best.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the sweet potato pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• If you plan on serving it later, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap and cover the pie with aluminum foil.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• For a crispy crust, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful sweet potato pie!

What makes this Sweet Potato Pie recipe special?

This sweet potato pie recipe is special because it’s made from scratch using wholesome ingredients like dark brown sugar and warm spices. The combination of flavors creates a comforting dessert that reminds you of home during the holidays.

Can I use other types of sweeteners in my Sweet Potato Pie?

Absolutely! You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture and sweetness level.

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

Your sweet potato pie is done when the center is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken. A toothpick inserted into the filling should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make this sweet potato pie as I am! It’s a classic dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Remember, there’s nothing quite like sharing a homemade treat with loved ones during the holidays. Enjoy every moment of baking and savoring this delicious pie—happy baking!