This sweet potato pie is a warm and cozy dessert that everyone loves! With its creamy filling made from sweet potatoes and spices, it’s a delicious treat during special occasions.
Whenever I make this pie, the smell of cinnamon and nutmeg fills the house. It’s hard to resist having a slice (or two!). Pair it with whipped cream for the perfect touch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the pie! For the best flavor, use fresh, orange-flesh sweet potatoes. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you can substitute pumpkin puree, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Butter: Unsalted butter keeps control of the flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative, but it may change the taste slightly.
Milk: This recipe calls for evaporated milk for creaminess, but if you’re lactose intolerant, try coconut milk or almond milk for a flavorful twist.
Spices: Ground cinnamon and nutmeg give the pie its warmth. You can also add a pinch of ginger for an extra kick. If you want to try something different, use pumpkin pie spice instead!
How Do You Get That Perfectly Smooth Pie Filling?
To achieve a creamy and smooth filling, follow these tips for preparing the sweet potato mixture:
- Make sure the sweet potatoes are fully cooked and cooled beforehand. This makes them easier to mash.
- Use a potato masher or a food processor to get a silky-smooth texture. If you have lumps, they will show in the pie.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly but don’t overmix. You want everything combined but avoid incorporating too much air.
By ensuring your filling is smooth, you’ll end up with a beautiful slice of sweet potato pie that everyone will love! Enjoy baking!
How to Make Sweet Potato Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pie:
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
- 2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For Topping:
- Whipped cream, for serving
- Ground cinnamon, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This sweet potato pie will take about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 55 to 60 minutes to bake, plus time to cool. So, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes of active cooking time, plus some time for cooling before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, wash and peel your sweet potatoes. You can boil them in water until soft or bake them until they’re tender. Mash the sweet potatoes until they are nice and smooth, then set them aside to cool.
2. Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Then, add the evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix everything together until it’s a smooth and creamy mixture. This is where the magic happens!
3. Pour into Pie Crust
Pour the sweet potato filling mixture into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it out evenly so it looks nice. Don’t worry if it looks a bit lumpy; it’ll bake beautifully!
4. Bake
Now it’s time for the pie to go into the oven! Bake for 55 to 60 minutes or until the filling is set. You can check if it’s done by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
5. Cool and Serve
Once it’s baked, take the pie out of the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling step is crucial for the pie to set properly. After it’s cooled, slice the pie and serve it with a big dollop of whipped cream on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little ground cinnamon over it for a lovely presentation.
6. Enjoy Your Sweet Potato Pie!
Dig in and enjoy every bite of your delicious homemade sweet potato pie. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or a sweet treat anytime!
Can I Use Canned Sweet Potatoes Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned sweet potatoes can be a great time-saver. Just be sure to drain them well and mash until smooth before mixing with the other ingredients. This will still yield a delicious pie!
How Can I Store Leftover Sweet Potato Pie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
Can I Adjust the Sugar Levels in This Recipe?
Yes, you can reduce both the granulated and brown sugar to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet pie, try cutting the sugar by 1/4 cup and adjust according to your preference. Keep in mind that sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, so you may find less sugar still works well!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Sweet Potato Pie?
Sweet potato pie is best served chilled or at room temperature. Top each slice with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a classic finish!