Homemade Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

Homemade Sweet Potato Pie is a classic Southern dessert that’s perfect for any holiday gathering or a cozy family meal. This pie features a creamy sweet potato filling spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, all wrapped in a flaky pie crust. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes makes this pie rich and flavorful, while the smooth texture provides the ultimate comfort in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of pumpkin pie or looking for a new twist, sweet potato pie is sure to delight.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Pie
• Recipe Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3-4 tbsp ice water

For the Filling

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, trim any excess dough, and crimp the edges. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the Filling

4. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and chop the sweet potatoes. Boil in a large pot of water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth.
5. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, beat together the mashed sweet potatoes, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Assemble and Bake the Pie

6. Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
8. Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to help the filling set.

Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Pie

• Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Freshly cooked sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and texture for this pie. Avoid using canned sweet potatoes if possible.
• Smooth Filling: For an extra smooth filling, puree the mashed sweet potatoes in a food processor before mixing with the other ingredients.
• Blind Bake the Crust: For a crispier bottom crust, you can blind bake the pie crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling.

Recipe Variations

• Pecan Topping: Add a crunchy pecan streusel topping for extra texture and flavor.
• Spiced Sweet Potato Pie: Add 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger and a pinch of ground cloves for a more spiced flavor.
• Maple Sweet Potato Pie: Substitute half of the granulated sugar with pure maple syrup for a delicious twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make sweet potato pie up to 2 days in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Q: How do I store leftover sweet potato pie?
A: Store leftover sweet potato pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Q: Can I freeze sweet potato pie?
A: Absolutely! Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• With Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch.
• With Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
• With Candied Pecans: Garnish with candied pecans for added crunch and sweetness.

Homemade Sweet Potato Pie is a comforting and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy, spiced filling paired with a flaky crust makes each bite heavenly. Whether you’re enjoying it during the holidays or just because, this pie is sure to bring warmth and happiness to your table. Give this recipe a try and savor the delicious taste of this classic treat!