Sweet Potato Pie

Change things up this Thanksgiving and wow your family and friends with this homemade sweet potato pie! This old-fashioned sweet potato pie is a delightful blend of dark brown sugar, warm fall spices, and a buttery crust, making it the ultimate holiday dessert. Perfect for celebrations or cozy gatherings, this pie promises to be a standout on your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of dark brown sugar and spices creates a deep, rich flavor that warms the soul.
• Easily Customizable: You can make adjustments to the spices or toppings to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering, this sweet potato pie will impress your guests.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious dessert without stress.
• Homemade Goodness: Using fresh ingredients ensures that every bite is packed with wholesome flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your sweet potato pie, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Pie dish
• Rolling pin
• Whisk
• Potato masher

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess or spills.
• Pie dish: A sturdy dish ensures even baking and a perfect presentation.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness in your pie crust for optimal texture.

Ingredients

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) lemon juice (cold)

For the Sweet Potato 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 Topping

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk
• Whipped cream

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by mixing the flour, salt, and sugar in a large mixing bowl.
* Add cold butter cut into small pieces.
* Use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
* Gradually add ice water and lemon juice until dough forms.
* Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

While the crust chills, prepare the sweet potatoes.
* Peel and chop sweet potatoes into chunks.
* Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15–20 minutes.
* Drain and mash until smooth; set aside to cool.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another mixing bowl:
* Combine softened butter and dark brown sugar; mix well.
* Add eggs one at a time while beating after each addition.
* Stir in mashed sweet potatoes followed by cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
* Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a circle larger than your pie dish.
* Lay the dough into the pie dish; trim excess edges.
* Pour the sweet potato filling into the crust.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until set.
Let cool before serving.

Step 6: Serve with Whipped Cream

For an extra treat:
* Whisk together egg and milk to create an egg wash; brush over crust edges before baking for a glossy finish.
Serve slices topped with whipped cream for added indulgence!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Serving sweet potato pie is a delightful experience that can elevate any gathering, especially during the holiday season. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dessert.

Classic Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture, balancing the rich flavors of the pie perfectly.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a warm and cold contrast that enhances the dessert’s sweetness.

Drizzle of Maple Syrup

• A drizzle of maple syrup over each slice adds an extra layer of flavor, making each bite more indulgent.

Nutty Crunch

• Top with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the soft filling.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Add slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or oranges on the side for a refreshing touch that cuts through the richness.

Spiced Tea or Coffee

• Pair with a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee to bring out the flavors in the pie, creating a cozy atmosphere.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Pie

Perfecting your sweet potato pie can make it even more enjoyable. Follow these tips for an unbeatable dessert!

• Choose Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Select sweet potatoes that are firm and free from blemishes for the best flavor and texture.

• Bake Before Mixing: Bake your sweet potatoes until tender rather than boiling them. This preserves their natural sweetness.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and other dairy ingredients are cold when making the crust. This helps create a flakier pie crust.

• Spice It Right: Don’t be afraid to adjust spices to your liking; experimenting with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can enhance flavor depth.

• Let it Cool: Allow your pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps set the filling for cleaner slices.

• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in the fridge wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Savory Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans seasoned with garlic offer a fresh contrast to the sweet pie.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add a crispy texture and earthy flavor, enhancing your meal’s balance.

3. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce provides brightness and acidity that contrasts beautifully with sweet potato pie.

4. Cornbread Muffins: Light, fluffy cornbread muffins add sweetness and pair well with southern-inspired meals.

5. Glazed Carrots: Sweet, glazed carrots complement the pie’s flavor profile while adding a colorful presentation.

6. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing, crisp element that balances richness.

7. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and can be flavored with herbs for extra depth.

8. Stuffing: Savory stuffing made with herbs creates an inviting aroma and taste that rounds out your holiday feast nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your sweet potato pie the star of your holiday table. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong sweet potatoes: Not all sweet potatoes are created equal. Stick with a variety that is firm and smooth for the best texture and flavor.
• Overmixing the filling: Mixing too much can lead to a tough pie. Combine ingredients just until blended for a creamy texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the pie to cool completely helps it set properly. Resist cutting into it right away to ensure perfect slices.
• Not pre-baking the crust: A soggy crust is a common issue. Pre-bake your crust lightly before adding the filling to avoid this problem.
• Ignoring spice measurements: Spices can make or break your pie. Stick to precise measurements for balanced flavors.
• Forgetting about presentation: A beautiful pie deserves attention. Use whipped cream or decorative patterns on top for an eye-catching finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the pie is completely cooled before covering to prevent condensation.

Freezing Sweet Potato Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Sweet Potato Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making sweet potato pie:

What is Sweet Potato Pie?

Sweet potato pie is a dessert made with mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, spices, and eggs, baked in a flaky crust.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes for Sweet Potato Pie?

Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes as a shortcut, but fresh ones provide better flavor and texture.

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

The pie is done when the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I customize my Sweet Potato Pie recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different spices or toppings like nuts or marshmallows to give it your own twist.

How long does Sweet Potato Pie last?

Sweet potato pie lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 2 months if frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

This homemade sweet potato pie is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its rich flavors and warm spices make it a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy. Try customizing it with your favorite toppings or spices for a personal touch!