Sweet potato pie is a classic Southern dessert that is beloved for its creamy, flavorful filling and its buttery, flaky crust. If you’re looking for a simple and easy way to make this delicious dessert, you’re in the right place! This recipe combines a few basic ingredients and a simple process to give you a sweet potato pie that will impress everyone at your table. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering or just a cozy night in, this sweet potato pie recipe is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Pie
Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious pie. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 medium-sized sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup of evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of white sugar
- 1 tsp of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp of ground nutmeg
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) of unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp of all-purpose flour (to prevent sticking)
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Once you’ve gathered all the ingredients, you’re ready to get started!
Step 1: Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
Start by preparing your sweet potatoes. Wash them thoroughly and stab each one with a knife a few times. This helps the potatoes cook evenly. After that, rub them with a light layer of olive oil. The olive oil helps the skin to crisp up slightly while baking.
Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and bake them at 400°F for about 1 hour or until they are fork-tender. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes, so be sure to check them with a fork. Once done, let them cool down for a few minutes before peeling off the skins.
Step 2: Making the Pie Filling
Once your sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, it’s time to prepare the filling. Add the peeled sweet potatoes to a food processor and blend them until smooth. There should be no lumps—just a velvety puree.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of white sugar
- 1 tsp of cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp of nutmeg
Melt 1 stick of butter and add it to the mixture. Stir everything together until it’s well incorporated. The combination of spices, butter, and sugars will create a wonderfully fragrant and creamy pie filling.
Step 3: Preparing the Pie Crust
While your pie filling is coming together, it’s time to prep the pie crust. If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, just place it in your pie dish. If you’re using homemade dough, make sure it’s rolled out to fit the dish. To prevent the pie from sticking, sprinkle the bottom of the pie dish with 1 tablespoon of flour.
Using a fork, gently poke some holes in the bottom of the pie crust. This will help the crust bake evenly and prevent it from puffing up during baking.
Step 4: Assembling the Pie
Now that your crust and filling are ready, pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared pie crust. Be sure to spread it evenly with a spatula, making sure the filling covers the entire bottom of the pie.
Step 5: Baking the Pie
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 50 to 60 minutes. Keep an eye on it and test the center with a toothpick or a cake tester. When it comes out clean, the pie is ready.
If the edges of the pie crust start to brown too quickly, you can cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning. You may notice that the top of the pie becomes darker, but don’t worry—this is perfectly normal. It means the flavors are developing, and the pie is baking to perfection.
Step 6: Cooling and Serving
Once the pie is done baking, let it cool down to room temperature. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice. Sweet potato pie is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Pie
- Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Fresh, high-quality sweet potatoes will give the pie the best flavor and texture. Avoid using canned sweet potatoes for the most authentic result.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg amounts to suit your taste. You can also add a pinch of ginger or cloves for a more complex flavor.
- Test the Pie: When testing if the pie is done, remember that the filling will continue to cook and set as it cools. It’s okay if the center jiggles a little bit.
- Serve at Room Temperature: While some people enjoy sweet potato pie warm, it’s best served at room temperature for the most perfect texture.
Why Sweet Potato Pie is a Fall Favorite
Sweet potato pie is the epitome of comfort food, and it’s a must-try recipe for anyone who loves fall desserts. With its rich, creamy filling and spiced flavor, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season. This simple, homemade sweet potato pie recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results every time. So, gather your ingredients and try it out! You won’t be disappointed with this delightful dessert.
Enjoy your homemade sweet potato pie and share it with your friends and family—it’s sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. Let us know how it turns out, and happy baking!
