Looking for a classic Southern dessert that will impress your guests during the holiday season? This Sweet Potato Pie recipe is a rich and flavorful treat that has won accolades in baking competitions and family gatherings alike.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Pie
- Southern Tradition: Embrace the delicious heritage of Southern cuisine with this creamy and spiced pie.
- Warm and Aromatic: The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates a fragrant and cozy filling.
- Family Favorite: A versatile dessert that suits Thanksgiving, Christmas, and any special occasion.
- Rich and Decadent: Indulge in the velvety texture and layers of flavor in every bite.
Ingredient Notes
- Sweet Potatoes: 4 large sweet potatoes, cooked and peeled.
- Sugar: 2 1/4 cups of granulated sugar.
- Spices: 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger.
- Butter: 1/2 stick of unsalted butter, melted and cooled.
- Eggs: 3 large eggs for binding and richness.
- Flavor Boost: 1 teaspoon of bourbon and 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract.
- Liquid: 1 cup of milk to enhance the creaminess.
- Pie Shells: 2 deep dish pie shells for a generous serving.
How to Make My Sweet Potato Pie
Step 1: Preparing the Filling
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Mash the cooked sweet potatoes in a bowl.
Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients
Add the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and melted butter to the mashed sweet potatoes. Crack in the eggs and blend everything until smooth.
Step 3: Flavor Infusion
Incorporate the bourbon, vanilla extract, and milk into the sweet potato mixture. Stir well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Step 4: Filling the Pie Shells
Divide the sweet potato filling evenly between the two pie shells. If you prefer, you can use store-bought pie shells for convenience.
Step 5: Baking Instructions
To prevent the crusts from burning, cover the edges with foil. Bake the pies for approximately an hour until they are set and slightly golden.
Step 6: Serving Suggestions
Allow the pies to cool to room temperature before serving. For an extra touch of indulgence, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream.
Storage Options
Store any leftover sweet potato pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a quick and satisfying treat.
Variations and Substitutions
- Substitute the sweet potatoes with canned pumpkin for a twist on the classic pumpkin pie.
- Enhance the spiced flavor by adding a dash of clove or allspice to the filling.
- For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the pie before baking.
- Experiment with different crusts such as graham cracker or shortbread for a unique twist on the traditional pastry.
What to Serve With Sweet Potato Pie
- Whipped Cream: A classic topping that adds a light and airy contrast to the rich pie.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- Spiced Chai Tea: Pair the pie with a steaming cup of spiced chai tea for a cozy and aromatic experience.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Complete the festive meal by offering gingerbread cookies on the side for a sweet and spicy touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can substitute canned sweet potatoes for fresh ones. Ensure they are well-drained before mashing.
Is it necessary to add bourbon to the pie?
The bourbon adds depth and richness to the flavor profile, but you can omit it if preferred.
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Absolutely! Feel free to prepare a homemade pie crust for a more personalized touch.
How can I prevent the filling from cracking during baking?
To prevent cracking, avoid overmixing the ingredients and bake the pie at a lower temperature.
After baking this Sweet Potato Pie, you can expect a velvety and aromatic dessert that captivates your taste buds with its warm spices and rich texture. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweet potato goodness, fragrant spices, and a hint of bourbon, making it a standout dish on any dessert table.
My Sweet Potato Pie
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Pie Plate
- Whisk
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 4 large sweet potatoes cooked and peeled
Sugar
- 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
Spices
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
Butter
- 1/2 stick unsalted butter melted and cooled
Eggs
- 3 large eggs
Flavor Boost
- 1 tsp bourbon
- 2 tbsp vanilla extract
Liquid
- 1 cup milk
Pie Shells
- 2 deep dish pie shells
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth.
- Add the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Crack the eggs into the mixture and whisk until fully incorporated. Stir in the bourbon, vanilla extract, and milk, blending until smooth.
- Pour the sweet potato mixture evenly into the two deep-dish pie shells.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the pies cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving.