Sweet potato pie is a classic Southern dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any table.
With its rich, creamy filling and perfectly balanced spices, it’s a favorite for many.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this simple sweet potato pie recipe will guide you to create a delicious, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Let’s dive into the details and secrets of making the perfect sweet potato pie.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pie Crust
1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour: The foundation of a good crust.
1/2 teaspoon of salt: Enhances the flavor.
1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes: Creates a flaky texture.
1/4 cup of ice water: Helps to bind the dough together.
For the Sweet Potato Filling
2 cups of mashed sweet potatoes: The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and a smooth texture.
1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness to the filling.
1/2 cup of granulated sugar: Balances the flavors.
1/2 cup of brown sugar: Adds depth and a slight caramel flavor.
2 large eggs: Helps to set the filling.
1/2 cup of evaporated milk: Adds creaminess.
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the sweet potatoes.
1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of spice.
1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger: A subtle spice that pairs well with the other flavors.
1/4 teaspoon of salt: Balances the sweetness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sweet Potato Pie
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. This will ensure the salt is evenly distributed throughout the crust.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for a flaky crust.
Step 3: Add Ice Water
Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to add too much water.
Step 4: Form the Dough
Gather the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps to firm up the butter and relax the gluten in the flour.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a large pot of water until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
Step 2: Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. You can use a potato masher, a fork, or even a blender for a smoother texture.
3. Make the Sweet Potato Filling
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Add the Spices and Milk
Add the evaporated milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth.
4. Assemble the Pie
Step 1: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pie dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges if desired.
Step 2: Add the Filling
Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared pie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Bake the Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Bake the Pie
Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If the crust starts to brown too much, cover the edges with foil.
6. Cool and Serve
Step 1: Cool the Pie
Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack. This will help the filling set and make slicing easier.
Step 2: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the sweet potato pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Pie
1. Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes
Fresh sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid using canned sweet potatoes as they can be too watery.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough
When making the pie crust, handle the dough as little as possible to ensure a tender, flaky crust.
3. Spice it Up
Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a different flavor profile.
4. Make Ahead
You can prepare the pie crust and sweet potato filling ahead of time. Store the crust in the refrigerator and the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
5. Decorate the Crust
For a decorative touch, use leftover dough to cut out shapes and place them on the edges of the pie crust.
Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes
1. Rich in Nutrients
Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.
2. High in Fiber
The high fiber content in sweet potatoes aids in digestion and helps to keep you feeling full longer.
3. Antioxidant Properties
Sweet potatoes contain antioxidants that help protect your body from free radicals.
4. Low Glycemic Index
Despite their sweetness, sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index, making them a good choice for those managing blood sugar levels.
Pairing Sweet Potato Pie with Other Dishes
1. Holiday Meals
Sweet potato pie is a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner table.
2. Southern Comfort
Serve it alongside other Southern classics like fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread.
3. Coffee and Dessert
Pair a slice of sweet potato pie with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful dessert experience.
4. Breakfast Treat
Enjoy a slice of sweet potato pie for breakfast with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey.
Sweet Potato Pie Variations
1. Marshmallow Topping
Top the pie with mini marshmallows and broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
2. Pecan Crumble
Add a pecan crumble topping for a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.
3. Gluten-Free Crust
Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the pie crust suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
4. Vegan Version
Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) instead of eggs.
Conclusion
Sweet potato pie is a timeless dessert that offers a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and creamy texture. With this simple recipe, you can create a delicious pie that will impress your family and friends.
Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a special treat, sweet potato pie is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Happy baking!
FAQs
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes, but fresh sweet potatoes are recommended for the best flavor and texture.
2. How can I store leftover sweet potato pie?
Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
3. Can I make the pie crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie crust in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
4. What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
You can substitute evaporated milk with heavy cream, half-and-half, or a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk.
5. How do I know when the pie is done?
The pie is done when the filling is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges of the crust should be golden brown.