Sweet potato pie is a cozy dessert that’s smooth, creamy, and just sweet enough! Made with mashed sweet potatoes and warm spices, it’s like a hug for your taste buds.
Honestly, the smell of this pie baking fills the house with so much happiness! I love serving it with a dollop of whipped cream on top—it’s a treat that always brings smiles. 🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: The star of the pie! For the best flavor, go for fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned. If you want, you can use pumpkin as a substitute, but the taste will be slightly different.
Granulated Sugar: This provides sweetness, but you can swap in brown sugar for a richer flavor. Coconut sugar is another great alternative for a lower GI option.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for precise control over the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free version, try coconut oil or vegan butter as a substitute.
Evaporated Milk: This adds creaminess! If you’re vegan, use coconut milk or almond milk for a similar effect. Just remember to adjust the sweetness accordingly if you use sweetened milk alternatives.
How Do I Get a Smooth Filling for My Pie?
A smooth filling is key for the best sweet potato pie. Here’s how to achieve that perfect consistency:
- Ensure the boiled sweet potatoes are cooled slightly before mashing. This helps prevent steam from making the filling watery.
- Use a potato masher or food processor to get the smoothest texture possible. Lumps can lead to an uneven filling.
- Mix until all ingredients are evenly blended, but don’t overbeat the eggs. That could make the pie slightly puffed.
Taking these steps ensures each slice of pie has the creamy, rich texture it deserves!
Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie Filling:
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Crust:
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream, for serving
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful sweet potato pie will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus 55-60 minutes to bake. After baking, allow some time for cooling, making it perfect to chill before serving! Overall, you’ll spend around 1 hour and 30 minutes before you can enjoy a slice.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, peel and chop the sweet potatoes into smaller pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Boil or steam the sweet potatoes until they’re tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Once soft, drain them and mash until smooth. Let the mashed sweet potatoes cool slightly.
2. Making the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, and softened butter. Use a mixer or a whisk to combine them until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is where that dreamy texture starts! Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Add the Creaminess and Spices:
Stir in the evaporated milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix everything together until the filling is fully combined and silky smooth, ensuring all flavors blend nicely.
4. Assemble the Pie:
Pour the creamy filling into the unbaked pie crust, taking a spatula to smooth out the top. Make it as even as possible for a lovely presentation!
5. Baking Time:
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The pie may jiggle a little, but it will set perfectly as it cools.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This is the hardest part—waiting! Once it’s cool, slice it up and serve with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for that finishing touch.
Enjoy the rich, creamy, and warmly spiced flavors of this classic sweet potato pie! It’s perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in. 🥧
Can I Use Canned Sweet Potatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes for convenience. Just make sure they are well-drained before mashing. This can save you time, but fresh sweet potatoes often offer a better flavor and texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Sweet Potato Pie?
Leftover sweet potato pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh!
Can I Freeze Sweet Potato Pie?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving, and reheat gently if desired.
What Should I Serve with Sweet Potato Pie?
Sweet potato pie is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pairing it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg adds that perfect finishing touch!
