If you’re craving a timeless Southern treat that fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas, this Sweet Potato Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine creamy, spiced sweet potato filling nestled inside a flaky, buttery crust—each bite a perfect harmony of sweetness and spice that makes every occasion feel special. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or just because you deserve a slice of comfort, this recipe delivers that classic homemade charm effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Sweet Potato Pie Recipe is refreshingly simple, but each component is essential for creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes to the fragrant warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, every element brings something special to the table.
- 2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes: The star of the dish, providing creamy texture and natural sweetness.
- ¾ cup sugar: Balances the earthiness of the sweet potatoes with a gentle sweetness.
- ½ cup melted butter: Adds rich flavor and helps create a smooth filling.
- 2 eggs: Bind the filling together for a custard-like consistency.
- ½ cup milk: Keeps the filling tender and perfect for baking.
- 1 tsp vanilla: Brings a subtle aroma that deepens the flavor profile.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the sweet potatoes brilliantly.
- ¼ tsp nutmeg: Offers a hint of spicy sweetness to round out the spices.
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust: The buttery, flaky base that holds everything together.
How to Make Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pie begins baking at the perfect temperature, helping the filling set just right without overbaking the crust. Having your oven ready ahead of time speeds up the process and keeps things smooth.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the mashed cooked sweet potatoes with sugar, melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir everything together until you achieve a smooth, uniform filling. This step is key because a silky, even texture means each slice will be as comforting and luscious as the last.
Step 3: Pour and Bake
Pour the sweet potato filling gently into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly. Place the pie on the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The pie is done when the center is set and a toothpick inserted near the middle comes out clean. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking; the crust should be golden and the filling just firm.
Step 4: Cool and Slice
Once baked, allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial because the filling continues to set as it cools, resulting in clean, perfect slices. Serve at room temperature or chilled, depending on your preference.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Top your slices of Sweet Potato Pie Recipe with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted pecans for added texture. A light dusting of cinnamon on top can also elevate the presentation and amplify the warm spice notes within the pie itself.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea, making it an ideal choice for brunch or dessert after a hearty meal. For a festive touch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts deliciously into the warm pie.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve mini versions of this Sweet Potato Pie Recipe in individual ramekins or tart pans. You can also drizzle caramel sauce or maple syrup over each slice for an irresistible, glossy finish that invites second helpings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Sweet Potato Pie refrigerated, wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This helps retain moisture and flavor, keeping the pie fresh for up to four days. Enjoy cold or warmed up for a second round of indulgence.
Freezing
You can freeze the pie whole or in individual slices wrapped well with plastic wrap and foil. Freezing locks in freshness and allows you to enjoy this classic dessert well beyond the initial baking day. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a low oven at 300°F until warmed through, or microwave briefly on a moderate setting. Avoid overheating to preserve the delicate texture of the creamy filling and flaky crust.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
While fresh roasted sweet potatoes are recommended for the best flavor and texture, canned sweet potatoes can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to mash them well and check for any added sugars or spices that might alter the recipe’s balance.
Is this Sweet Potato Pie Recipe gluten-free?
The traditional recipe calls for a standard pie crust, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free option, substitute with a gluten-free pie crust available at most grocery stores or make your own with gluten-free flour blends.
Can I make this pie vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, use plant milk instead of dairy milk, and substitute the eggs with flax eggs or another vegan egg replacer. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How long does it take for the pie filling to set?
The pie filling usually sets fully after cooling for at least one hour at room temperature. For firmer slices, refrigerate the pie for a few hours before serving.
What’s the best way to cook sweet potatoes for this pie?
Roasting sweet potatoes whole with their skin on allows the natural sugars to develop, resulting in a richer, deeper flavor perfect for this Sweet Potato Pie Recipe. After roasting, scoop out the flesh and mash it until smooth.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Pie Recipe is a heartwarming classic that never fails to comfort and delight. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite throughout the South and beyond. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and share it with friends or family—you’ll have everyone asking for seconds in no time!
Print
Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
- Yield: 8 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Southern dessert featuring a smooth, spiced sweet potato filling baked in a flaky crust. This sweet potato pie delivers a creamy texture balanced with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, making it a perfect holiday treat or year-round favorite.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes
- ¾ cup sugar
- ½ cup melted butter
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for even baking.
- Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended for a creamy texture.
- Fill the Crust: Pour the prepared sweet potato filling into the unbaked 9-inch pie crust, spreading it evenly for consistent baking.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly. This ensures the filling is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling to firm up for clean slices. Serve topped with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh roasted sweet potatoes for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Top with whipped cream before serving for added richness and a classic presentation.
- Ensure the filling is smooth by mashing the sweet potatoes thoroughly or using a food processor if preferred.
- Cool pie completely to avoid runny filling when slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
