Sweet Potato Pie

Change things up this Thanksgiving and wow your family and friends with this homemade sweet potato pie! This old-fashioned sweet potato pie features dark brown sugar and warm fall spices, topped with fresh whipped cream for the ultimate holiday dessert. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy family dinners, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices and sweetness from the sweet potatoes creates an irresistible taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Easy to Prepare: Despite its impressive appearance, this sweet potato pie is simple to make, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Dessert: Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a family gathering, this pie fits in perfectly on any dessert table.
• Crowd-Pleasing: With its nostalgic flavors, this sweet potato pie is a favorite among guests and family alike.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to adapt the spices or toppings according to your preferences!

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious sweet potato pie, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help ensure that each step of the process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Whisk
• Potato masher

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie dish: A good-quality pie dish ensures even baking and helps achieve a perfect crust.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to separate ingredients easily while preparing your filling and crust.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

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) lemon 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 Topping

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk
• whipped cream

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in ice water and lemon juice until combined. Form into a ball, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil or steam sweet potatoes until fork-tender, about 30 minutes.
3. Allow them to cool slightly before peeling.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth.
2. Add softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract; mix well.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface into a circle large enough for your pie dish.
2. Transfer the dough into the pie dish and trim excess edges.
3. Pour the sweet potato filling into the crust.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

1. In a small bowl, whisk together egg and milk; brush over crust edges.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 50–60 minutes or until set in the middle.
3. Let cool before serving; top with whipped cream if desired.

Enjoy your homemade sweet potato pie as a delightful end to any meal!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your sweet potato pie experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream for a light and airy texture that complements the pie’s richness.

Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy coldness pairs beautifully with the warm spices of the pie.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• A drizzle of pure maple syrup adds an extra layer of sweetness and enhances the pie’s natural flavors.

Garnished with Toasted Pecans

• Sprinkle toasted pecans on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the smooth filling.

Served with Spiced Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy your pie with a cup of spiced tea or coffee. The warmth and aroma from the beverages can enhance the overall dessert experience.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Pie

Creating the perfect sweet potato pie involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time.

• Choose fresh sweet potatoes: Fresh, vibrant sweet potatoes yield a sweeter and more flavorful filling compared to canned versions.
• Pre-bake the crust: Pre-baking the crust helps prevent it from becoming soggy due to the moist filling.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that butter, eggs, and evaporated milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid a tough filling. Overmixing can lead to an undesirable texture.
• Cool before slicing: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps it set properly, making it easier to serve.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding more cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance flavors further.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie shines even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some suggestions that work well alongside this delightful dessert.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These savory sprouts offer a crispy texture and earthy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the pie.

2. Green Bean Casserole
   A creamy green bean casserole provides a rich, savory contrast while adding comfort food vibes to the meal.

3. Mashed Sweet Potatoes
   For an extra touch of sweetness, consider serving mashed sweet potatoes seasoned lightly with butter and cinnamon.

4. Cornbread Muffins
   Soft cornbread muffins bring a hint of sweetness and buttery goodness that pairs beautifully with sweet potato pie.

5. Apple Crisp
   A warm apple crisp adds another layer of fruity sweetness, creating a delightful mix of flavors on your dessert table.

6. Pumpkin Soup
   A creamy pumpkin soup offers warmth and spice, making it an excellent starter before indulging in dessert.

7. Salad with Citrus Dressing
   A fresh salad dressed in citrus vinaigrette adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the pie, refreshing your palate.

8. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can round out your meal, offering salty contrasts that highlight the sweetness of your sweet potato pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a sweet potato pie can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using uncooked sweet potatoes: Always cook your sweet potatoes until tender before mixing them into the filling. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so measure your ingredients carefully. Using too much or too little flour or sugar can ruin your pie.
• Skipping the chilling time for the crust: Allow your pie crust to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking. This prevents shrinkage and results in a flakier crust.
• Overmixing the filling: Mix just until combined; overmixing can incorporate too much air and lead to cracks in your pie as it cools.
• Using warm ingredients: Ensure that your butter and other ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Cold ingredients can create a lumpy filling.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sweet potato pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Sweet Potato Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for optimal protection against freezer burn.
• Sweet potato pie can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sweet Potato Pie

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the pie for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat, covered, until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sweet Potato Pie?

Sweet potato pie is a traditional dessert made with mashed sweet potatoes, spices, sugar, and eggs baked in a flaky crust. It’s especially popular during holidays.

How do I make my Sweet Potato Pie smoother?

To achieve a smooth texture, ensure that your sweet potatoes are fully cooked and mash them thoroughly. You can also use an electric mixer for an extra creamy filling.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes for Sweet Potato Pie?

Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes as a time-saver. Just drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture in your filling.

What spices are best for Sweet Potato Pie?

Common spices include cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. These spices enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

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

Your pie is done when the edges are set but the center may still have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Final Thoughts

This homemade sweet potato pie offers rich flavors and a delightful texture that will impress family and friends alike. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different spices or toppings like nuts or marshmallows. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a holiday favorite!