Sweet Potato Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that will steal the show this Thanksgiving, look no further! This homemade sweet potato pie is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The rich flavors of sweet potatoes combined with warm spices create a cozy, comforting treat that feels like a hug in every bite. Plus, it’s perfect for family gatherings or special occasions when you want to impress your loved ones.

What makes this sweet potato pie even more special is the fact that it’s made from scratch, allowing you to control every delicious detail. With its smooth filling and flaky crust, this pie is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home, just as it has in mine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up this sweet potato pie in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves the creamy texture and sweet flavor of this pie—it’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the pie in advance and store it in the fridge. It’s perfect for busy holiday weeks!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of dark brown sugar and warm spices makes each slice taste like fall on a plate.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy weeknight at home, this sweet potato pie fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe—just some simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to make our delicious sweet potato pie!

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) white grape juice (cold)

For the 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 the Topping

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk
• whipped cream

Variations

This sweet potato pie recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with different ingredients to suit your taste.

• Add Some Zest: A bit of orange or lemon zest can brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the filling before baking for an added crunch.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with other spices like cardamom or allspice to create your signature flavor profile.
• Creamy Twist: Replace half of the evaporated milk with coconut milk for a tropical touch!

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by making the crust! In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Then cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial as it helps create that perfectly flaky texture. Slowly add ice water and grape juice until the dough comes together. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Next, peel and chop your sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them until they are tender—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Cooking them thoroughly ensures they blend smoothly into your filling. Once done, drain them and let them cool slightly before mashing them in a bowl.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another bowl, cream together softened butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt for that signature spice blend! Finally, mix in your mashed sweet potatoes followed by evaporated milk and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble Your Pie

Roll out your chilled dough on a floured surface into your desired shape—don’t worry about perfection! Transfer it into your pie dish and trim any excess edges. Pour your delicious filling into the crust evenly. This step is where all your hard work pays off as you see that beautiful color come together!

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake your pie for about 90 minutes or until set. A knife inserted should come out clean when it’s ready. Your kitchen will smell divine during this time!

Step 6: Finish with Toppings

While cooling, whisk together an egg with milk to brush over the top crust if desired. Serve each slice topped with whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

And there you have it—your very own homemade sweet potato pie ready to delight everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Pie

Making sweet potato pie can be a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh sweet potatoes – Fresh sweet potatoes yield a richer flavor and creamier texture than canned ones. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and makes for a more vibrant pie filling.

• Chill your pie crust – After preparing your pie crust, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps to prevent shrinking during baking and gives you that perfectly flaky texture.

• Don’t skip the spices – The warm spices in this recipe are essential to achieving that classic sweet potato pie flavor. Feel free to adjust the spice amounts according to your taste preferences for an extra kick!

• Check for doneness – The best way to know if your pie is done is by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean when the pie is fully set. If the edges start browning too quickly, cover them with foil.

• Let it cool completely – Allowing your sweet potato pie to cool before serving helps it set properly and enhances the flavors. Plus, it’s easier to slice when it’s fully cooled!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

When it comes to serving sweet potato pie, presentation is key! Here are some ideas that will impress your guests and enhance their overall experience.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream – A generous dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the rich filling beautifully.

• Cinnamon sprinkle – A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top of the whipped cream not only adds visual appeal but also enhances that warm spice flavor.

Side Dishes

• Green bean casserole – This classic side dish brings a creamy and crunchy contrast to the smoothness of sweet potato pie, making it an excellent pairing for Thanksgiving dinners.

• Roasted Brussels sprouts – These crispy Brussels sprouts add a savory balance to the sweetness of the pie while providing a nutritious touch.

• Mashed potatoes with garlic – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting side that pairs well with almost any holiday meal, making them a great accompaniment.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience centered around your delicious homemade sweet potato pie! Enjoy every moment of this special treat with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet potato pie is not only a delightful treat for your holiday gatherings but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time, making it easy to enjoy during busy days or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For best results, keep slices in an airtight container.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; be sure to label it with the date.
• To freeze individual slices, wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating

• Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• For individual slices, reheat in the microwave on medium power for 30-60 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious sweet potato pie!

Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using fresh sweet potatoes. Just boil or bake them until tender, mash them, and proceed with the recipe.

What makes this Sweet Potato Pie special?

This Sweet Potato Pie is special because it combines rich flavors from dark brown sugar and warm spices, creating a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!

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

Your Sweet Potato Pie is done when the filling has set but still slightly jiggles in the center. A toothpick should come out clean from just outside the center.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this sweet potato pie as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to bring warmth and joy to your holiday table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring a slice all by yourself, this recipe promises deliciousness in every bite. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!