Sweet Potato Pie

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert to impress your loved ones this Thanksgiving, look no further than this incredible Sweet Potato Pie! This recipe is a cherished family favorite, passed down through generations, and it’s easy to see why. The rich flavor of sweet potatoes combined with warm spices creates a cozy vibe that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this pie adds sweetness to any occasion.

What makes this Sweet Potato Pie truly special is its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can whip up something that tastes like it came straight from Grandma’s kitchen. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the smell of pie baking in the oven to bring everyone together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The steps are straightforward, so even novice bakers can confidently create this delicious pie.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet and spiced flavors, making it a hit for all ages.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy weeknight treat, this pie fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge until it’s time to serve.
• Customizable Toppings: Top it with homemade whipped cream or enjoy it plain—either way, it’s divine!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make your own Sweet Potato Pie, gather these simple and wholesome ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating that comforting flavor we all love.

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

This Sweet Potato Pie recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add Some Chocolate: Stir in chocolate chips into the filling for a decadent twist.
• Pumpkin Spice Mix: Replace some of the cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a different seasonal flavor.
• Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for added texture.
• Coconut Cream: Fold in some shredded coconut to give your pie a tropical flair.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by making your pie crust. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water and grape juice gradually until the dough comes together. This step is key because a flaky crust sets the foundation for your sweet filling.

Step 2: Bake the Sweet Potatoes

While your crust chills in the fridge, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Poke holes in your sweet potatoes with a fork and bake them until tender—about 45-60 minutes. Baking enhances their natural sweetness and makes them easy to mash later.

Step 3: Make the Filling

Once cooled, peel and mash those sweet potatoes until smooth. In another bowl, beat together softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, spices, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until well-combined. This mixture will be rich and flavorful—perfect for filling your crust!

Step 4: Assemble Your Pie

Pour the sweet potato filling into your chilled pie crust. Smooth it out gently with a spatula. This is where all those warm spices come together beautifully!

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Bake your pie in that same preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about an hour. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly—it will firm up as it cools.

Step 6: Let It Cool & Serve

Allow your Sweet Potato Pie to cool completely before slicing into it—this helps maintain its shape when served. Top each slice with fluffy whipped cream if desired; trust me—it’s worth it! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Now you have all you need to create this heartwarming dessert that will surely become a cherished part of your holiday traditions!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Pie

Creating the perfect sweet potato pie is all about the little details, so here are some pro tips to help you shine in the kitchen!

• Use fresh sweet potatoes: Freshly roasted sweet potatoes yield a richer flavor and smoother texture than canned ones. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall taste of your pie.

• Chill your pie crust: After preparing your crust, let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent shrinking during baking and results in a flaky, tender crust that complements the creamy filling beautifully.

• Mix spices wisely: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to suit your taste! A pinch of nutmeg or an extra dash of cinnamon can personalize the flavor profile and make your pie truly unique.

• Check for doneness: To ensure your pie is perfectly set, gently shake it after baking. It should have a slight jiggle in the center but not look liquidy. If it seems too wobbly, give it a few extra minutes in the oven.

• Let it cool before serving: Allow your sweet potato pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This gives the filling time to set up properly, making it easier to cut neat slices.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie is a delightful centerpiece for any gathering, especially during holidays like Thanksgiving. Presenting it beautifully can elevate your dessert from ordinary to extraordinary!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A generous dollop of fresh whipped cream on each slice adds lightness and richness, balancing the flavors perfectly.
• Cinnamon dust: A light sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top not only enhances visual appeal but also intensifies that cozy fall flavor we all love.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slightly bitter flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the pie, making them a great side dish choice.
• Maple-glazed carrots: These sweet and tender carrots bring an earthy sweetness that complements the pie wonderfully.
• Green bean casserole: A classic Thanksgiving dish that adds a savory crunch against the creamy texture of sweet potato pie.
• Cornbread: This southern staple offers a slightly sweet, crumbly texture that pairs well with rich desserts like sweet potato pie.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress everyone with your delicious homemade sweet potato pie! Enjoy every bite and share this heartwarming dessert with loved ones this holiday season.

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet potato pie is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you stress on the big day.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any coverings from the pie.
• 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 it uses dark brown sugar and a blend of warm spices, creating a rich and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any fall gathering!

Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! This recipe calls for fresh sweet potatoes, which not only adds better flavor but also allows you to control the sweetness. Just boil or bake them until tender before mashing.

How do I know when my sweet potato pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the center is set and slightly puffed. A toothpick inserted into the middle should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

What can I serve with sweet potato pie?

Whipped cream is a classic topping, but you can also serve it with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this sweet potato pie as much as I do! It’s a comforting dessert that brings warmth to any gathering and creates lasting memories around the table. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creation with loved ones—after all, food tastes even better when shared! Happy baking!