Name: Creamy Sweet Potato Pie that Will Wow Your Guests
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 135 min
Ingredients: 1 9-inch Deep Dish Pie Crust (Consider using a graham cracker crust for gluten-free option.); 2 cups Mashed Sweet Potatoes (Canned sweet potatoes can be used.); 2 ounces Salted Butter (Unsalted butter can be substituted.); 0.5 cup Milk (Almond or oat milk for dairy-free.); 2 large Eggs (Room temperature for smoother texture.); 0.5 cup White Sugar (Coconut sugar can be used.); 0.5 cup Brown Sugar (Light or dark brown sugar can be used.); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Can be omitted if desired.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Nutmeg can be substituted.); 0.5 teaspoon Ginger (Ground ginger may be used.); 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg (Can replace with allspice.)

As I sat at my grandmother’s kitchen table, the fragrant aroma of spices warmed the air, drawing me in like a cozy hug. Today, I’m excited to share my twist on a cherished classic: Creamy Southern Sweet Potato Pie. This delightful dessert stands proudly as a delicious alternative to pumpkin pie, offering a creamy custard filled with the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes, accentuated by warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Best of all, it’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and those just starting their culinary journey. Whether you’re planning a festive Thanksgiving table or simply craving a comforting homemade treat, this pie will win hearts and satisfy sweet tooth cravings alike. Ready to uncover the charm of Sweet Potato Pie for yourself? Let’s jump into this delightful recipe!

Why is Sweet Potato Pie so beloved?

Creamy Texture: The unique custard-like filling creates a luscious mouthfeel that’s hard to resist.
Seasonal Favorite: Perfect for Thanksgiving or any family gathering, it evokes nostalgia with every bite.
Quick Preparation: This recipe simplifies the steps, making it ideal for busy bakers who still want homemade goodness.
Versatile Ingredients: Substitute with almond milk or coconut sugar to cater to dietary needs without losing flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Serve it warm with whipped cream or ice cream, and watch it become the star of your dessert table! If you’re looking for more delightful options, consider exploring Cheesy Taco Potatoes or the refreshing Key Lime Pie.

Sweet Potato Pie Ingredients

For the Crust
• 9-inch Deep Dish Pie Crust – Provides structure and flakiness; consider using a graham cracker crust for a gluten-free option.

For the Filling
• Mashed Sweet Potatoes (2 cups) – The main filling component, offering natural sweetness; you can substitute with canned sweet potatoes for convenience.
• Salted Butter (2 ounces) – Adds richness and flavor; unsalted butter can be used if preferred.
• Milk (½ cup) – Contributes creaminess to the filling; substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Large Eggs (2) – Bind the filling ingredients together; egg substitutes like flax eggs may work but will alter texture slightly.
• White Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the filling; can substitute with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Adds depth and moisture; light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances overall flavor; can be omitted for a simpler flavor profile.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – Adds warm spice flavor; nutmeg can be substituted.
• Ginger (½ teaspoon) – Contributes a hint of sharpness and warmth; ground ginger may substitute for fresh if necessary.
• Nutmeg (¼ teaspoon) – Provides aromatic flavor; can omit or replace with an equal amount of allspice.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prep Sweet Potatoes
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms, wash and boil 2-3 large sweet potatoes, unpeeled, in a large pot of water for 35-45 minutes until fork-tender. Once cooked, drain and cool the potatoes slightly. Peel them, then mash with 2 ounces of salted butter in a mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Mix Cake Filling
In the same bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with ½ cup of milk, 2 large eggs, ½ cup white sugar, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and spices: 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ginger, and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg. Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until creamy and well blended, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Bake Pie
Pour the luscious filling into a prepared 9-inch deep dish pie crust. Place the pie on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The filling should be set yet slightly jiggly in the center when done, signaling a perfectly baked creamy sweet potato pie ready to come out.

Step 4: Cool and Serve
After baking, allow the pie to cool at room temperature for about an hour. This cooling time helps set the filling further. For serving, consider topping each slice with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the delightful flavors of your creamy Southern sweet potato pie.

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Pie

Refrigeration: Store leftover sweet potato pie in the fridge for up to 4 days. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh and prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of sweet potato pie for up to 3 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen pie, transfer it to the refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight to thaw before reheating.

Reheating: Preheat oven to 325°F and bake for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for an irresistible treat!

Expert Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Pie

Cook Potatoes Well: Ensure your sweet potatoes are fully cooked; undercooked potatoes will lead to lumps in your creamy filling.
Use Room Temperature Eggs: Let your eggs sit out before mixing; room temperature eggs create a smoother texture and help blend better into the filling.
Don’t Overmix: Once the filling is creamy, stop mixing to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks in your sweet potato pie.
Check for Doneness: The pie is ready when the center jiggles slightly but is not liquid. Overbaking can dry out the filling, so keep a close eye in the last few minutes.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger levels based on your flavor preference; a little experimentation can elevate your sweet potato pie.

What to Serve with Creamy Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors and textures that will elevate your sweet potato pie experience.

Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy sweetness to each slice, balancing the pie’s creamy richness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, smooth texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced pie, creating a cozy dessert dream.
Pecan Pie Bites: These sweet, nutty bites bring a crunchy texture that complements the soft custardy filling of your sweet potato pie.
Maple Glazed Carrots: Bright and slightly sweet glazed carrots provide a vibrant, fresh contrast, enriching the festive spirit of a holiday dinner.
Cinnamon Spiced Coffee: A warm cup of coffee laced with cinnamon enhances the pie’s spices, inviting cozy conversations around the table.
Southern Peach Cobbler: For a delightful dessert duo, serve slices of warm peach cobbler alongside sweet potato pie to celebrate timeless Southern flavors.
Apple Cider: A cool glass of spiced apple cider can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich sweetness of the pie, perfect for autumn gatherings.
Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette introduces a refreshing element to your meal, balancing the indulgent flavors of the pie.

Combining these options will surely create a memorable meal that leaves everyone satisfied and eager for more!

Sweet Potato Pie Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize the flavors of this comforting pie!

Gluten-Free: Use a graham cracker crust or almond flour pie crust for a delicious gluten-free option.
Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk to keep it creamy while accommodating dairy sensitivities.
Rich & Decadent: Add chocolate chips or chopped pecans for a delightful twist of flavor and texture. Imagine a delightful bite of creamy filling punctuated by rich chocolate or the crunch of nuts!
Flavor Boost: Incorporate a tablespoon of lemon zest to infuse a fresh, bright note that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Spiced Variation: Enhance the warmth by adding cardamom or allspice, bringing an aromatic twist to your creamy filling.
Maple Sweetened: Replace white sugar with pure maple syrup for a natural sweetness that adds complexity to the flavor profile.
Coconut Twist: Swap in coconut milk for a tropical flair that marries well with the sweet potatoes—perfect for a summer gathering!
Smoky Flavor: For a unique twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the filling, which gives the pie a surprising depth that will leave guests guessing!

Serving your sweet potato pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the whole experience, creating a heavenly dessert. If you’re curious about more delicious ideas, why not check out a slice of refreshing Berry Slab Pie or indulge in Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes? The possibilities in your kitchen are endless!

Make Ahead Options

These creamy Southern sweet potato pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the filling up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply prepare the sweet potatoes, mash them with the butter, and mix in the remaining ingredients as directed. Store the mixture tightly covered in the refrigerator. As for the pie crust, you can also prepare it up to 3 days ahead; just keep it wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When ready to bake, pour the filling into the crust and bake as instructed, giving you a delicious homemade dessert with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings!

Sweet Potato Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of sweet potatoes should I use for the pie?
I recommend using medium to large-sized sweet potatoes that are a vibrant orange color. Look for those that are firm without dark spots, as this indicates freshness. You can also use canned sweet potatoes for convenience, but I find that fresh ones provide a deeper flavor and texture.

How should I store leftover sweet potato pie?
Absolutely! You can store leftover sweet potato pie in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh and avoid drying out. It’s a great way to enjoy pie at any time without the need for another bake!

Can I freeze sweet potato pie?
Yes, you can freeze sweet potato pie for up to 3 months! To do this, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to label it with the date so you remember when you made it!

What’s the best way to reheat frozen sweet potato pie?
To reheat your frozen slice, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy it, preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the pie slice in a baking dish and warm it for about 15-20 minutes until it’s heated through. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra enjoyment!

What if my sweet potato pie turns out too runny?
If your pie turns out runny, it could be a result of not baking it long enough. Make sure the center jiggles slightly but is not liquid as it cools. For next time, try beating the filling just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can create gaps when baking!

Is sweet potato pie safe for pets or allergy-friendly?
Sweet potatoes are generally safe for dogs in moderate amounts, but be mindful of other ingredients like sugar and butter. If you’re catering to allergies, consider using almond milk and egg substitutes, but this may slightly change the texture. Always check ingredient labels to ensure the pie meets your dietary considerations.