Sweet Potato Pie Recipe: The Best Southern Dessert to Try

Sweet potato pie is a timeless dessert that holds a special place in Southern cuisine. With its rich, velvety filling made from naturally sweet and earthy sweet potatoes, this pie is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday feasts. Whether served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or chilled for a refreshing treat, sweet potato pie is a beloved classic that brings comfort and joy to the table.

In this recipe, we will guide you through every step of making the perfect sweet potato pie from scratch. From the history of this iconic dessert to a comprehensive list of ingredients, detailed instructions, and tips for success, this guide will help you achieve a dessert that is both delicious and visually stunning. Let’s dive into the art of creating the best sweet potato pie.

The History of Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie has deep roots in American history, particularly in the Southern United States. The sweet potato itself is native to Central and South America, and it was brought to the United States by European settlers in the 16th century. Over time, sweet potatoes became a staple crop in the South due to their ability to thrive in warm climates and their versatility in cooking.

The evolution of sweet potato pie likely occurred in the 18th century, when African slaves in the South began adapting traditional European pies to include ingredients that were more readily available, such as sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes were used as a filling for pies instead of the more common pumpkin, which was also native to the Americas but not as widely grown in the South.

Over time, sweet potato pie became a Southern delicacy, often served during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. It remains a popular dessert choice at family gatherings, church socials, and other celebrations. The pie has evolved with various regional variations, with some adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to enhance the flavors.

Today, sweet potato pie is enjoyed throughout the United States, but it holds a special place in the hearts and kitchens of the South, where it is cherished as a symbol of comfort, tradition, and family.

Ingredients for the Best Sweet Potato Pie

To create a sweet potato pie that is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced, you’ll need a combination of high-quality ingredients. From the sweet potatoes to the spices, each component plays a crucial role in achieving the ideal texture and taste.

For the Pie Filling:

2 medium-sized sweet potatoes – The star of the pie, sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and a smooth, creamy texture. Opt for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for the best flavor and color.
3/4 cup granulated sugar – Sugar is essential for sweetening the filling. You can adjust this amount based on your personal preference for sweetness.
1/4 cup brown sugar – Brown sugar adds depth and richness to the pie filling, with a hint of molasses that complements the sweet potatoes.
1/2 teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes and balances the flavors in the filling.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Cinnamon brings warmth and spice to the pie, enhancing the natural flavors of the sweet potatoes.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Nutmeg adds a subtle, aromatic spice that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon and sweet potatoes.
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger – Ginger adds a hint of zing and sharpness, rounding out the spiced flavor profile of the pie.
2 large eggs – Eggs provide structure and richness to the filling, helping it set properly as it bakes.
1/2 cup whole milk – Whole milk creates a creamy, smooth texture in the filling, helping to bind the ingredients together.
1/2 cup heavy cream – Heavy cream adds richness and creates a silky texture in the filling, giving the pie a decadent taste.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the pie, adding depth and complexity.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted – Butter contributes to the smooth texture of the filling and adds a rich, buttery flavor.

For the Pie Crust:

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Flour is the base for the pie crust. It provides structure and texture, forming the flaky, tender crust.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Salt enhances the flavor of the crust and balances the richness of the filling.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes – Cold butter is key to creating a flaky, tender crust. It should be incorporated quickly into the flour to create small pockets of fat that result in a crisp, flaky texture.
3-4 tablespoons ice water – Ice water helps bring the dough together without melting the butter, which is essential for a flaky crust. Add the water a tablespoon at a time until the dough forms.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Sweet Potato Pie

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s walk through each step of creating the perfect sweet potato pie. Follow these detailed instructions carefully for the best results.

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and Cut the Sweet Potatoes: Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into chunks. This will make them easier to cook and mash later.
Boil the Sweet Potatoes: Place the sweet potato chunks in a large pot of water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the sweet potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender. You can test their doneness by piercing them with a fork; they should be soft and easy to mash.
Mash the Sweet Potatoes: Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, drain them and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. For an extra smooth texture, you can use a hand blender or food processor.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

Make the Pie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add the cold, cubed 1/2 cup unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter.
Add Ice Water: Slowly add 3-4 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork after each addition. Continue adding water until the dough begins to come together.
Form the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times to bring it together. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.
Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough is chilled, roll it out on a floured surface until it is about 1/8-inch thick. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a 9-inch pie dish and press it gently into the edges. Trim any excess dough from the edges and crimp the edges to form a decorative border.

Step 3: Prepare the Pie Filling

Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ginger, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
Add the Melted Butter: Stir in the 1 tablespoon melted butter and mix until the filling is fully incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour the Filling into the Crust: Carefully pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly across the crust.
Smooth the Top: Gently tap the pie dish on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Smooth the top of the filling with the back of the spoon or spatula.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the Pie: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for about 55-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center of the pie comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the filling should have a firm, custard-like texture.
Cool the Pie: Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling time allows the filling to set completely.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Pie: Once the pie has cooled, slice it and serve with a dollop of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.
Enjoy the Comfort: Enjoy the rich, creamy texture and the perfect balance of sweetness and spice in every bite.

Tips for Making the Perfect Sweet Potato Pie

Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: For the best flavor and texture, use orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. They have a natural sweetness and smooth texture that works perfectly for pie filling.
Make Ahead: You can make the pie filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the pie the day you plan to bake it.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices like allspice or cloves for a more complex flavor profile.
Crust Options: If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought pie crust, but homemade crusts provide a richer flavor and texture.

Conclusion: The Perfect Sweet Potato Pie

This sweet potato pie recipe delivers the ideal balance of flavor, texture, and comfort. With its rich, creamy filling, flaky crust, and aromatic spices, it is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying a cozy family dinner, sweet potato pie is sure to be a hit. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll create a pie that is as delicious as it is beautiful.