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 made with dark brown sugar and warm fall spices, topped with fresh whipped cream for the ultimate holiday dessert. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a perfect addition to any gathering, from Thanksgiving feasts to festive family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes and warm spices creates a comforting taste that everyone will love.
• Simple Preparation: This recipe is easy to follow, making it suitable for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a dessert or serve it alongside coffee for a delightful treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a special family gathering, this pie is a crowd-pleaser.
• Homemade Goodness: Made from scratch using wholesome ingredients, you can feel good about what you’re serving.

Tools and Preparation

To make your sweet potato pie successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are some tools you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin helps create an even crust, ensuring that your pie has the perfect texture.
• Pie dish: Using the right pie dish ensures even cooking and allows for easy serving.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for mixing eggs and other ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

For this delicious sweet potato pie, gather the following ingredients:

For the 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 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

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by boiling or baking your sweet potatoes until they are soft. Once cooked, allow them to cool before peeling.

Step 2: Make the Pie Crust

• In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
• Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Stir in ice water and lemon juice until dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In another bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth.
• Add softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

• Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
• Place the rolled dough into the dish and trim any excess edges.
• Pour the sweet potato filling into the crust.

Step 5: Bake Your Pie

Bake in preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until set. You can check by inserting a knife; it should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow your pie to cool completely before slicing. Brush the top with an egg wash made from beaten egg and milk for a beautiful finish. Serve with whipped cream on top!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Serving sweet potato pie is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and creating an inviting presentation. Here are some delightful ways to serve this classic dessert that will impress your guests.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light and airy texture, balancing the richness of the pie.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pairing sweet potato pie with vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast of temperatures, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce enhances the sweetness and adds a luxurious touch to your serving.

Topped with Pecans

• Chopped toasted pecans on top provide a nice crunch and nutty flavor that complements the smooth filling.

Served with Spiced Tea or Coffee

• Offering spiced tea or coffee alongside can elevate the experience, as the warm beverages enhance the warm spices in the pie.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Pie

Perfecting your sweet potato pie takes a little practice, but these tips will help you achieve a delicious result every time.

• Use fresh sweet potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes offer better flavor and texture than canned varieties.
• Pre-bake your crust: Baking the pie crust slightly before adding the filling prevents it from becoming soggy.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the filling smooth and creamy without incorporating too much air.
• Check for doneness: The pie is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle; it will firm up as it cools.
• Let it cool completely: Cooling allows flavors to meld and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Pie

While sweet potato pie is a star on its own, complementing it with side dishes can create an amazing meal experience. Here are some ideal side dishes to consider:

1. Spicy Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil and spices adds a savory balance to your dessert.
2. Maple Glazed Carrots: These sweet yet tangy carrots bring out the warm flavors in your pie while adding color to your plate.
3. Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds provide a crunchy contrast, perfect alongside creamy desserts.
4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich mashed potatoes can be a comforting addition that pairs well with holiday meals featuring sweet potato pie.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Moist cornbread muffins bring Southern charm and sweetness that works harmoniously with your pie.
6. Autumn Salad: A salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and nuts offers freshness and acidity that balances the richness of the pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a sweet potato pie can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the final product. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out perfectly.

• Using undercooked sweet potatoes: Always make sure to fully cook your sweet potatoes before mashing them. This enhances their flavor and ensures a smooth filling.
• Skipping the chilling time for the crust: If you don’t chill your pie crust, it may shrink while baking. Chill it for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science! Use precise measurements for flour, sugar, and spices for the best results.
• Overmixing the filling: To avoid a tough texture, mix just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air and lead to cracks in the pie.
• Neglecting to taste: Always taste your filling before pouring it into the crust. Adjust sweetness or spice levels if needed to suit your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your sweet potato pie in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Sweet Potato Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure it’s fully cooled before freezing.

Reheating Sweet Potato Pie

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Reheat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat for about 5-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sweet Potato Pie?

Sweet potato pie is a traditional dessert made with mashed sweet potatoes, spices, and often served during holidays. It’s creamy and delicious!

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

The pie is ready when the filling has set around the edges and slightly jiggles in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I make Sweet Potato Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare your sweet potato pie one day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What are some variations of Sweet Potato Pie?

You can customize your sweet potato pie by adding different spices like allspice or nutmeg, or even incorporating chocolate for a twist!

How do I prevent my Sweet Potato Pie from cracking?

To minimize cracking, avoid overmixing your filling and bake at a lower temperature. Let it cool gradually instead of shocking it with cold air.

Final Thoughts

This homemade sweet potato pie is not only a delightful addition to any holiday table but also versatile enough for year-round enjoyment. Feel free to customize it with different spices or toppings like nuts or caramel sauce. Give this recipe a try, and impress your family with its rich flavors!