Sweet Potato Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that embodies the warmth and comfort of the holiday season, you’ve found it in this delightful Sweet Potato Pie. This pie is a cherished recipe that has been passed down through generations, and it’s perfect for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to festive Thanksgiving dinners. The sweet potatoes create a rich and creamy filling, while the warm spices invite everyone to gather around the table for a slice (or two!).

The beauty of this Sweet Potato Pie lies not only in its delicious flavor but also in how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up on a busy weeknight or make it ahead of time for a special celebration. Trust me, your family and friends will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can master this pie.
• Family Favorite: Its sweet, spiced flavor makes it loved by all ages—kids and adults alike!
• Make Ahead: You can bake it a day in advance, giving you more time to enjoy your gathering.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays or any day you crave something sweet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sweet Potato Pie uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You’ll love how easy it is to find everything you need!

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 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

To Serve

• whipped cream

Variations

One of the best things about this Sweet Potato Pie is its flexibility! Feel free to personalize it based on your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add Some Zest: A bit of orange or lemon zest can brighten up the flavors!
• Spice It Up: Experiment with additional spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Consider adding finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for extra texture.
• Swap the Sweetness: Use maple syrup instead of dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by making your pie crust. In a mixing bowl, combine 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 the dough comes together. Chill it in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling; this helps ensure a flaky crust!

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and chop your sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in water until tender—about 15-20 minutes should do. Drain them and let them cool slightly before mashing until smooth. This step creates that creamy base we love!

Step 3: Mix Your Filling

In another bowl, combine softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Add in your mashed sweet potatoes and mix well until everything is combined. This filling is where all those warm flavors come together!

Step 4: Assemble Your Pie

Roll out your chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. Press it into place and trim any excess dough from the edges. Pour in your sweet potato filling and smooth out the top. This ensures an even bake.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake your pie for about 90 minutes or until it’s set in the center but still slightly jiggly—this means it’s perfectly creamy! Allow it to cool before serving; this lets those flavors deepen even more.

And there you have it! A homemade Sweet Potato Pie that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every slice with a dollop of whipped cream on top!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Pie

Making sweet potato pie can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure that your pie turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Look for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes without any blemishes. The sweetness and texture of the potatoes will greatly affect the pie’s flavor.
• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: Having all your ingredients measured and ready to go not only speeds up the process but also helps you stay organized in the kitchen, leading to a stress-free baking experience.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: After making your pie crust, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent shrinkage during baking and ensures a flaky texture.
• Use a fork to check doneness: When baking, gently insert a fork into the center of the pie. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your pie is ready!
• Let it cool before serving: Allowing your sweet potato pie to cool completely will help set the filling, making it easier to slice and enhancing the flavors.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Serving sweet potato pie is just as important as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present this beloved dessert at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a lightness and creaminess that complements the rich filling beautifully.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top not only looks appealing but also enhances those warm spice notes already present in the pie.
• Candied pecans: Adding chopped candied pecans on top brings a crunchy texture and an extra hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the smooth filling.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and green beans provides a savory balance to the sweet richness of the pie.
• Green salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and cranberries drizzled with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast that brightens up your meal.
• Cranberry sauce: The tartness from homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce creates a lovely contrast against the sweetness of the pie while adding a festive touch to your table.
• Vanilla ice cream: For those who love a classic combination, serving slices of sweet potato pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates an indulgent dessert experience that everyone will enjoy.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to wow your guests this Thanksgiving with a gorgeous homemade sweet potato pie! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet potato pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert without the last-minute rush. You can prepare it in advance and store it properly to keep that delightful flavor intact.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover pie slices covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
• Ensure that the pie is completely cooled before covering to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze the pie before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making sweet potato pie!

What makes this Sweet Potato Pie recipe special?

This sweet potato pie stands out because of its rich flavor profile from dark brown sugar and warm spices, making it a comforting holiday treat that everyone will love.

Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned for my Sweet Potato Pie?

Absolutely! Fresh sweet potatoes provide a wonderful texture and flavor. Just make sure to cook them until tender before mashing them into your filling.

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

Your sweet potato pie is ready when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools down.

Can I add toppings to my Sweet Potato Pie?

Yes! Topping your pie with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon can enhance its flavor. Feel free to get creative with toppings!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this sweet potato pie recipe as delightful as I do! It’s a fantastic way to bring warmth and comfort to your holiday table, creating memories that will last long after dessert is gone. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!