Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Southern sweet potato pie is a timeless comfort dessert and one of those unique eats recipes that instantly feels like home. Often celebrated as one of the best homemade pies, this version highlights the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes blended into a rich, creamy filling made extra indulgent as a sweet potato pie with heavy cream.
Perfect for the holidays, it’s a must-have sweet potato pie Thanksgiving tradition, yet versatile enough to inspire creative twists like pumpkin sweet potato pie or sweet potato pumpkin pie. Whether baked traditionally or adapted into a no bake sweet potato pie, this recipe proves why it’s considered the best ever sweet potato pie.
It even pairs beautifully with other dinner recipes using pie crust, making it a standout dessert for any occasion.
Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse and poke several holes in each sweet potato with a fork.
- Bake the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
- Allow the sweet potatoes to cool, peel the skins, and mash the flesh in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add granulated sugar and melted butter to the mashed sweet potatoes and mix until well combined.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each.
- Mix in milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the sweet potato filling into the pre-made pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is slightly golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love This Southern Sweet Potato Pie
This Southern sweet potato pie is beloved for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginners. The combination of sweet potatoes, spices, and creamy goodness creates a flavor that both kids and adults adore. Moreover, it’s a wonderful dessert for holidays, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. You’ll find that each slice offers a taste of home, nostalgia, and a hint of sweetness that lingers on your taste buds.
How to Make Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 pound)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch, either homemade or store-bought)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse and poke several holes in each sweet potato with a fork. This will prevent them from bursting while baking.
- Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Once they are cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and mash the flesh in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add the granulated sugar and melted butter to the mashed sweet potatoes, mixing until well combined.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition.
- Pour in the milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the sweet potato filling into the pre-made pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is slightly golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving to let it firm up.
How to Serve Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Serving Southern sweet potato pie is an experience in itself. You can slice it and serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled—all equally delightful. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top makes for a classic pairing. You could also sprinkle some cinnamon or grated nutmeg for an extra aromatic touch. This pie shines as a standalone dessert but can also complement a hearty holiday meal beautifully.
How to Store Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Storing your sweet potato pie is simple. If you have leftover pie, keep it covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for a few seconds or warm it in the oven at a low temperature. For a longer shelf life, you can freeze the pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it should keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating and serving.
Tips to Make Southern Sweet Potato Pie Perfect
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes. Fresh sweet potatoes will give your pie the best flavor.
- Make the Filling Creamy: Make sure to mash the sweet potatoes thoroughly. A smoother filling will yield a creamier pie.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste the filling before pouring it into the crust. Feel free to adjust the sugar or spices according to your preference.
- Check for Doneness: Use a knife or toothpick to check if the pie is set. If it comes out clean, your pie is ready.
Flavor Variations
Experimenting with flavors can make your Southern sweet potato pie even more delightful. Here are a few variations you might try:
- Maple Syrup: Swap out some sugar for maple syrup for added depth and sweetness.
- Ginger: Add some ground ginger for a zesty twist.
- Coconut Milk: Substitute regular milk with coconut milk for a tropical flair.
- Nutty Crunch: Top your pie with a streusel topping made from nuts and oats for added texture.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: Avoid overmixing your filling after adding the eggs. Overmixing can make the pie dense.
- Cool Before Serving: Cooling the pie is crucial. It allows the filling to set properly, making it easier to slice.
- Use a Quality Crust: Whether homemade or store-bought, a quality crust will enhance the overall flavor of your pie.
FAQs About Southern Sweet Potato Pie
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes if you want to save time. Just ensure you drain and mash them well before adding them to the filling. Adjust the sugar if needed since canned sweet potatoes can be sweeter.
2. How do I know when my pie is done baking?
Your pie is done when the filling is set and the top has a slight golden brown color. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. If the edges start to brown too much, you can cover them with foil.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make Southern sweet potato pie a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to serve. It can also be frozen if you prepare it further in advance.
Final Thoughts
Southern sweet potato pie is a cherished dish that captures the essence of comfort food. The simple ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful dessert that delights the palate. Whether it’s for holidays, family gatherings, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this pie is sure to impress. Enjoying a slice of Southern sweet potato pie will surely bring warmth and happiness to your home.
