There’s something incredibly heartwarming about the first bite of a perfectly baked Sweet Potato Pie. The creamy filling, rich with spices and sweetness, wraps you in a comforting embrace that feels like home. I discovered this gem one chilly afternoon while rummaging through my pantry for ingredients. The vibrant orange of the sweet potatoes practically called to me, and soon enough, I was whisking up magic!
Perfect for family gatherings or just a cozy night in, this pie is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, with its golden crust and luscious filling. What I adore most about this recipe is its simplicity—you don’t need a culinary degree to create a dessert that impresses. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply craving something delicious and homemade, this Sweet Potato Pie will soon become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Let’s get started on crafting this delightful treat that dances between comfort food and a show-stopping dessert!
Why is Sweet Potato Pie a must-try?
Comforting Creaminess: The velvety smooth filling melts in your mouth, delivering a heartwarming experience with every bite.
Simple Yet Impressive: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create a stunning centerpiece.
Warm, Spiced Aroma: As it bakes, your home will fill with intoxicating scents of cinnamon and nutmeg—pure bliss!
Family Favorite: This pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at holiday gatherings, making it a staple for any celebration.
Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it chilled for a refreshing treat.
Ready to elevate your dessert game? Discover how to make this Sweet Potato Pie that everyone will love!
Sweet Potato Pie Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to create the ultimate Sweet Potato Pie.
For the Crust
• 9-inch homemade unbaked pie crust – A flaky crust is the perfect base for the creamy sweet potato filling; feel free to use store-bought if you’re short on time.
For the Filling
• 1½ pounds sweet potatoes – These are the star of your pie, providing that rich flavor and beautiful color.
• 4 ounces butter, softened – Adds a luscious richness to the filling.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – For that essential sweetness.
• ½ cup brown sugar – Introduces a hint of molasses flavor and depth.
• ½ cup milk – Makes the filling creamy; any type of milk works great!
• 2 large eggs – These help bind the filling, giving it a delightful structure.
• 1 egg yolk – Enhances richness and color in the filling.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds a warm, spicy aroma that’s synonymous with the season.
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger – Offers a warm, zesty kick to balance the sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon – A classic spice that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Just a pinch enhances all the flavors in the pie.
• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract – Infuses the filling with delightful, warm sweetness.
How to Make Sweet Potato Pie
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your pie will bake evenly, giving you that perfect golden crust you’re aiming for.
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Prepare the sweet potatoes by boiling or baking them until tender. This usually takes about 30-40 minutes. Once cooked, peel them and mash with a fork until smooth.
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Mix the filling by combining the mashed sweet potatoes, softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, eggs, egg yolk, nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is completely smooth and well blended.
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Fill the unbaked pie crust by pouring the sweet potato filling into it. Make sure to spread the filling evenly, smoothing the top to ensure a lovely finish.
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Bake the pie for 45-55 minutes, or until the filling has set and the crust is lightly golden in color. You’ll know it’s done when you can insert a knife into the center, and it comes out clean!
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Cool the pie for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes it easier to cut those perfect slices.
Optional: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Pie
Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool completely, then cover left-over slices in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Fridge: To keep the pie fresh longer, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer: For long-term storage, slice the pie and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato Pie!
Sweet Potato Pie Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delicious pie with exciting twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter and milk with coconut oil and almond milk for a delightful, creamy alternative. The subtle coconut flavor adds a wonderful layer of richness!
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Maple Sweetened: Replace granulated and brown sugars with pure maple syrup for a unique flavor twist that’s still sweet. The warm notes of maple elevate the pie to new heights of deliciousness.
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Nutty Crust: Add crushed nuts like pecans or almonds to the pie crust for a crunchy texture that complements the smooth filling. The nuttiness pairs beautifully with the sweet potato’s warmth.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the filling for a fiery surprise that mingles with the spices. It’s a bold way to awaken the taste buds!
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Additional Flavors: Introduce a splash of orange juice or a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling for a bright, citrusy zing that cuts through the sweetness. It’s refreshing and wonderfully aromatic!
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Shortbread Crust: Try using a shortbread crust instead of a traditional pie crust for a buttery and crumbly texture. This simple swap adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
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Cream Cheese Layer: Create a creamy layer by spreading a mixture of cream cheese and sugar on the bottom of the crust before adding the sweet potato filling. It’s decadent and adds a rich surprise.
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Extra Toppings: Top your pie with toasted marshmallows or a sprinkle of chopped pecans before serving for a visually appealing finishing touch that adds both flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Sweet Potato Pie preparations are perfect for busy cooks, allowing you to savor a homemade dessert without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by combining the mashed sweet potatoes, butter, sugars, milk, eggs, and spices, then refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain its rich flavor and creamy texture. Additionally, you can par-bake the pie crust a day before, letting it cool completely, then store it at room temperature wrapped in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the refrigerated filling into the crust and bake as directed (45-55 minutes), resulting in a lovingly crafted dessert just as delicious as when made fresh!
Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Pie
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Perfectly Cooked Potatoes: Ensure your sweet potatoes are fork-tender before mashing. Overcooking can leave them watery, which affects the filling’s texture.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your butter and eggs sit out for about 30 minutes. This helps the ingredients blend more smoothly, resulting in a creamier Sweet Potato Pie filling.
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Even Baking: To prevent a soggy crust, pre-bake it for 10 minutes before adding the filling. This step creates a shield against moisture, ensuring a delightful crunch.
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Spice It Up: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices! If you’re a cinnamon lover, feel free to add a bit more for that warm, comforting flavor that enhances your Sweet Potato Pie.
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Cooling Time: Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting. This helps the filling set properly, making it easier to slice and serve neatly.
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Pie?
Elevate your Sweet Potato Pie experience with delightful pairings that enhance its flavors and textures.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a luscious, airy contrast to the pie’s creamy filling, making each bite irresistible.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy ice cream beautifully complements the warm, spiced pie, creating a heavenly dessert duo.
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Pecan Topping: A sprinkle of candied pecans on top introduces a crunchy texture, elevating the pie while adding nutty sweetness. Pairing these with the pie brings delightful symphonies of crunch and creaminess.
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Apple Cider: A refreshing glass of apple cider marries well with the warm spices in the pie, making for a cozy, fall-inspired meal. It’s like sipping on autumn!
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Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: Serve alongside soft, chewy cinnamon sugar cookies for a delightful blend of flavors while offering a different texture to the experience.
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Chai Latte: A warm chai latte with its spiced milk creates an enchanting pairing, adding warmth and depth that echo the pie’s main flavors.
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Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee balances the sweetness of the pie, allowing the spices to shine even more, resulting in the perfect afternoon treat.
Sweet Potato Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best sweet potatoes for my pie?
Absolutely! Look for sweet potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free of dark spots or blemishes. The ones with vibrant orange skin and flesh will yield the best flavor for your pie. Avoid those that feel soft or have shriveled skin.
How long does sweet potato pie last in the fridge?
Very good question! When properly stored in the refrigerator, your Sweet Potato Pie can last for up to 4 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing any other odors from your fridge.
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Can I freeze sweet potato pie, and how?
Yes, you can freeze your Sweet Potato Pie! First, allow it to cool completely after baking. Then, slice the pie and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the slices in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, thaw a slice overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes.
What should I do if my filling is too thin?
No worries! If you find your filling is too thin after mixing, try adding a little more mashed sweet potato for thickness. If you’re starting from scratch, you can increase the baking time slightly, which often helps firm up the filling. Alternatively, adding an extra egg can also help set that filling nicely.
Is sweet potato pie safe for pets?
While sweet potatoes themselves are generally safe for dogs in moderation, keep in mind that ingredients like sugar and spices (nutmeg, in particular, can be harmful to pets) are not safe for them. Always make sure to keep any leftovers out of reach to ensure your furry friends stay safe!
Can I adjust the spices in sweet potato pie?
Absolutely, the more the merrier! If you love a specific spice like cinnamon or nutmeg, feel free to increase the amounts according to your taste. You can even experiment with adding a pinch of allspice or clove for an extra flavor punch. Just remember that slight changes can make a delightful difference!
Irresistible Sweet Potato Pie Recipe for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the sweet potatoes by boiling or baking them until tender, about 30-40 minutes. Once cooked, peel and mash until smooth.
- Mix the filling by combining the mashed sweet potatoes, softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, eggs, egg yolk, nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Stir until completely smooth.
- Fill the unbaked pie crust with the sweet potato filling, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the pie for 45-55 minutes, or until the filling has set and the crust is lightly golden. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Cool the pie for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
