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As I stood in my kitchen, the air filled with the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, I realized there’s nothing quite like a Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pie to usher in the holiday spirit. This beloved dessert stands tall as a creamy, custardy alternative to pumpkin pie, making it a star on Thanksgiving tables. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up, capturing that homemade charm without hours of labor. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a velvety filling that’s deliciously comforting and perfect for sharing with family and friends. So, are you ready to elevate your dessert game and impress your loved ones with this delightful treat?
Why is Sweet Potato Pie a Thanksgiving Favorite?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and spiced filling offers a delightful alternative to traditional pumpkin pie, capturing the heart of Southern cooking.
Quick Preparation: This recipe is easy to follow, making it accessible for both new and experienced bakers.
Hearty Dessert: Each slice delivers a satisfyingly creamy, custard-like texture that pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Festive Atmosphere: It evokes cozy holiday memories, perfect for sharing with loved ones around the table. For a delightful variation, consider checking out my Sweet Candy Cookie recipe for an extra sweet treat!
Versatile Options: Customize to your taste by adding spices or even swapping sweet potatoes for pumpkin. This makes it a versatile recipe for any holiday gathering!
Sweet Potato Pie Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for an amazing pie!
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For the Crust
- 9-inch Deep Dish Pie Crust – A flaky base for the pie; you can use a pre-made or homemade option for convenience.
For the Filling
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes (2 cups) – This is the heart of the sweet potato pie, providing a creamy texture; approximately 2-3 large sweet potatoes will do.
- Salted Butter (2 ounces) – Adds richness and a lovely flavor; feel free to substitute with margarine if you prefer.
- Milk (½ cup) – Incorporates moisture; whole milk gives that creaminess, but almond or oat milk can be great dairy-free alternatives.
- Large Eggs (2) – These bind the filling together; no substitutes are recommended for this crucial role.
- White Sugar (½ cup) – Balances the flavors and sweetens the pie; you can swap in more brown sugar for a deeper taste.
- Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Brings in those lovely caramel notes; dark brown sugar enhances this even further.
- Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Elevates the flavor profile; for the best results, stick with natural vanilla extract.
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – Adds warm, comforting spice; consider tweaking the flavor by including allspice or cloves.
- Ground Ginger (½ teaspoon) – Introduces a zesty note; this is optional but can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Nutmeg (¼ teaspoon) – Complements the spices beautifully; using fresh nutmeg can significantly enhance the flavor.
Enjoy making your delightful Sweet Potato Pie!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Step 1: Prep Sweet Potatoes
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, place unpeeled sweet potatoes in a large pot, covering them with water. Bring to a boil and let them cook for 35-45 minutes or until fork-tender. This will ensure they are perfectly soft, making them easy to mash for your delicious Sweet Potato Pie filling.
Step 2: Cool and Peel
Once your sweet potatoes are tender, drain them in a colander and cool them under running water for easy handling. Cut each potato in half, allowing them to cool slightly, and then carefully peel off the skin. You should end up with about 2 cups of creamy mashed sweet potatoes, which serve as the key ingredient for the pie.
Step 3: Make Filling
In a mixing bowl, add the warm, mashed sweet potatoes and blend in the 2 ounces of melted salted butter until combined. Next, stir in ½ cup of milk, 2 large eggs, ½ cup each of white and brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and your spices: 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg. Mix until smooth and well incorporated, creating a delightful filling for your Sweet Potato Pie.
Step 4: Bake Pie
Pour the luscious filling into your prepared 9-inch deep dish pie crust, spreading it evenly. Carefully transfer the pie to the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know the pie is done when the center jiggles slightly, indicating a perfectly custard-like texture. Let the aroma of your Sweet Potato Pie fill your kitchen as it bakes!
Step 5: Cool and Serve
After baking, carefully remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour. This cooling period helps the filling set up beautifully. If you’re not serving immediately, you can refrigerate it; otherwise, it’s perfect to top with a dollop of whipped cream and slice right away for your loved ones to enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the mashed sweet potatoes with butter, milk, eggs, sugars, and spices, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can make the pie crust ahead of time and store it (unbaked) in the freezer for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the prepared filling into the crust, and bake as instructed. This not only saves you time on busy holidays but ensures your pie is just as delicious when served fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Pie
Fridge: Refrigerate your Sweet Potato Pie for up to 4 days in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap to keep it fresh and moist.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, freezing for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy later, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating: Reheat slices at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes if you prefer your Sweet Potato Pie warm; serve with whipped cream for a delightful finish!
What to Serve with Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Elevate your holiday gathering with delightful sides and drinks that beautifully complement the creamy sweetness of this beloved dessert.
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Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop adds a luxurious creaminess that balances the pie’s sweetness perfectly. It’s the classic pairing every pie dreams of!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The rich, cool flavor of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm pie, creating a delightful contrast that melts in your mouth.
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Sweet Tea: This Southern staple offers a refreshing complement to the creamy richness of the pie. Its subtly sweet flavors enhance the entire experience.
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Spiced Pecans: Crunchy and caramelized, these nuts provide a lovely texture contrast and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crispiness make them a surprising but delicious side that balances the pie’s sweetness. The earthiness of the sprouts is wonderful!
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Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: Treat your guests to a sweet surprise; the buttery softness of these cookies mirrors the warm spices in the pie, adding to the festive atmosphere.
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Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing contrast, the natural brightness of the fruit enhances the rich flavors of the Sweet Potato Pie, celebrating every bite.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Kick up the flavors by serving this warm, spiced drink alongside your dessert. It’s cozy and comforting, inviting everyone to stay a little longer.
Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Pie
- Perfectly Cooked Potatoes: Ensure sweet potatoes are fork-tender before proceeding. This guarantees a smooth filling, avoiding any lumps.
- Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix the filling until smooth. Overmixing can lead to a grainy texture, impacting the creamy consistency of your Sweet Potato Pie.
- Cooling Time Matters: Let the pie cool for at least an hour before serving. This helps the filling set properly and enhances the flavors.
- Storage Solution: Refrigerate any leftovers for up to 4 days. Serve cold or warm by reheating at 325°F (160°C) for optimal enjoyment.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like allspice or cloves to elevate the taste of your Sweet Potato Pie.
Sweet Potato Pie Variations & Substitutions
Customize your delightful Sweet Potato Pie with these fun and flavorful twists that will make your creation uniquely yours!
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Pumpkin Upgrade: Replace sweet potatoes with pureed pumpkin for a seasonal twist that’s equally creamy and delicious.
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Nut-Free Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter to keep it dairy-free and nut-free while maintaining rich flavor.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Swap milk for almond or oat milk for a lighter, dairy-free alternative that adds a nutty profile to your filling.
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Maple Sweetness: Substitute white sugar with maple syrup for a natural sweetness and heavenly depth in every bite.
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Citrus Zing: Add a splash of lemon juice or orange zest to the filling for a refreshing tang that beautifully complements the sweet flavors.
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Spice It Up: Experiment with a blend of spices; try adding cardamom or cloves for unexpected warmth and a fragrant aroma.
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Cheesecake Fusion: Incorporate cream cheese into the filling for a rich, cheesecake-style Sweet Potato Pie that will impress your guests.
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Variations for the Crust: For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust or try a nut crust for an exciting textural twist.
Feeling inspired? For more delicious treat ideas, you might also enjoy my Raspberry Danish Sweet or if you’re in the mood for something unique, check out my recipe for Sweet Cinnamon Sugar bites!
Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe sweet potatoes for the pie?
Absolutely! Look for sweet potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free from dark spots or blemishes. Ideally, they should feel heavy for their size, as this indicates good moisture content. I often recommend selecting medium to large sweet potatoes to ensure you have enough for the 2 cups of mashed potatoes your recipe calls for.
What is the best method for storing leftover Sweet Potato Pie?
Very! To keep your Sweet Potato Pie fresh, refrigerate it in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap for up to 4 days. This helps preserve its creamy texture and flavors. If you want to serve it later, just let it come to room temperature or warm it up in the oven for a comforting treat!
Can I freeze Sweet Potato Pie?
The more the merrier! Yes, you can freeze Sweet Potato Pie for up to 3 months. After it cools, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For a slice of warmth, reheat at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes.
What do I do if my filling turns out grainy?
Don’t worry! If your filling is grainy, it might be due to overmixing after adding the eggs. To prevent this in the future, mix just until smooth after incorporating the ingredients. If you already have a grainy mixture, try blending it again with a hand mixer or blender for a smoother texture before pouring it into your pie crust.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This Sweet Potato Pie contains common allergens like eggs and dairy. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, you can substitute the milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Additionally, the pie is a great option for many dietary preferences, but if you’re sharing with pets, keep in mind that ingredients like sugar and certain spices may not be suited for them.
How long should I bake the pie?
Absolutely, it’s key! Bake your Sweet Potato Pie for 50-60 minutes, checking for doneness when the center jiggles slightly. If you notice that the top begins to brown too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the filling to set fully. This will help ensure you achieve that perfect custard-like texture!
Deliciously Creamy Sweet Potato Pie You’ll Love at Thanksgiving
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place unpeeled sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Boil for 35-45 minutes until fork-tender.
- Cool and Peel: Drain sweet potatoes and cool under running water. Cut in half and peel. You should have about 2 cups of creamy mashed sweet potatoes.
- Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine warm mashed sweet potatoes and melted salted butter. Stir in milk, eggs, white and brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, ground ginger, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Bake Pie: Pour filling into the prepared pie crust and spread evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the center jiggles slightly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove pie from oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour. Serve with whipped cream.
