Easy Homemade Sweet Potato Pie
Introduction to Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet potato pie is a classic Southern dessert that combines a smooth, creamy filling with a buttery, flaky crust for a dessert that is comforting, rich, and deeply flavorful. Unlike pumpkin pie, sweet potato pie has a naturally sweet and earthy taste that makes it stand out, with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger enhancing its depth. The result is a dessert that is both nostalgic and elegant, perfect for holiday tables, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a special treat.
What makes sweet potato pie truly special is its versatility and approachable technique. The filling is silky and dense yet light enough to slice cleanly, and it can be prepared ahead of time for stress-free entertaining. The naturally sweet flavor of roasted or mashed sweet potatoes provides the base, while spices and sweeteners balance richness without being overly sugary. Every bite melts in the mouth, offering a delicate blend of creaminess and spice that delights both adults and children.
Sweet potato pie is also a celebration of texture. A well-made crust provides a crisp, tender frame for the creamy filling, while subtle variations, like using a graham cracker crust or topping with whipped cream, add layers of flavor and visual appeal. The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity and elegance: with just a handful of ingredients and straightforward technique, you can produce a dessert that feels indulgent and luxurious.
Finally, sweet potato pie connects tradition with creativity. It has been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations, and modern bakers can experiment with flavors, toppings, and presentation while respecting its roots. From classic versions served at Thanksgiving to unique twists like bourbon-infused filling or spiced pecan toppings, sweet potato pie is a versatile dessert that satisfies nostalgia while inspiring new variations in every kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Preparation and Cooking Time, Also Serving
Ingredients
For the Crust:
For the Filling:
Substitution Notes:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, whisk flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until dough holds together. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll chilled dough into a 12-inch circle and fit into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim excess edges and crimp as desired.
Step 3: Prepare Sweet Potatoes
Boil or bake sweet potatoes until tender. Peel and mash until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
Step 4: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating until combined. Mix in mashed sweet potatoes, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and milk until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Pour filling into the prepared crust. Smooth the top with a spatula and tap gently to remove air bubbles.
Step 6: Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55–60 minutes, until the filling is set around the edges but slightly wobbly in the center. Cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
How to Serve
Additional Tips
Recipe Variations
Freezing and Storage
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
Final Words
Sweet potato pie is a timeless dessert that perfectly balances rich, creamy filling with a tender, buttery crust. Its naturally sweet, earthy flavor makes it a favorite for holiday tables, family gatherings, or casual weekend baking. Every slice offers a comforting, nostalgic taste that pairs wonderfully with spices and sweet toppings.
Making sweet potato pie at home allows you to control both flavor and quality. You can adjust spices to taste, choose your preferred sweeteners, and even experiment with alternative crusts like graham cracker or gluten-free options. This flexibility ensures a pie that suits your palate and your dietary needs while maintaining traditional flavors.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and elegance. With a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes sophisticated. The creamy filling, subtle spice, and flaky crust come together seamlessly, making it approachable for both beginner and experienced bakers.
Sweet potato pie is also highly versatile. It can be served warm or chilled, topped with whipped cream, nuts, or caramel, or even incorporated into mini tartlets for personal servings. Its enduring popularity across generations is a testament to its comforting, crowd-pleasing flavor.
Ultimately, baking sweet potato pie at home is a rewarding experience. It brings warmth, flavor, and visual appeal to your table while providing a sense of accomplishment and joy. Once you master this recipe, it will become a staple for holidays, celebrations, and anytime you want to share a slice of classic, delicious homemade dessert with family and friends.
FAQ’s
Sweet Potato Pie
8
servings55
minutes2
hours320
kcalIngredients
- For the Crust:
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
3–4 tablespoons ice water
- For the Filling:
2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup whole milk or cream
Directions
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until dough holds together. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll chilled dough into a 12-inch circle and fit into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim excess edges and crimp as desired.
- Boil or bake sweet potatoes until tender. Peel and mash until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating until combined. Mix in mashed sweet potatoes, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and milk until smooth.
- Pour filling into the prepared crust. Smooth the top with a spatula and tap gently to remove air bubbles.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55–60 minutes, until the filling is set around the edges but slightly wobbly in the center. Cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
