Sweet Potato Pie

Change things up this Thanksgiving and wow your family and friends with this homemade Sweet Potato Pie! This old-fashioned sweet potato pie features rich dark brown sugar and warm fall spices, creating a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and delightful flavor, it’s sure to become a holiday favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes and warm spices creates an irresistible taste that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive results, this sweet potato pie is simple enough for even novice bakers to tackle.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a family gathering, this pie fits right in as the star dessert.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain or topped with whipped cream; either way, it’s sure to delight your guests.
• Homemade Goodness: Nothing beats the satisfaction of making a classic dessert from scratch!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Sweet Potato Pie, gather these essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: A variety of sizes allows for efficient mixing of ingredients without mess.
• Rolling pin: Perfectly rolls out your pie crust to the desired thickness for even cooking.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Ensures that your filling is light and fluffy by properly blending the ingredients.

Ingredients

For this delicious Sweet Potato Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pie Crust

• 2 1/2 cups (300 g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 teaspoon (6 g) table salt
• 2 tablespoons (25 g) sugar
• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter (cold 2 sticks)
• 1/4 cup (60 g) ice water (more as needed)
• 1/4 cup (60 g) lemon juice (cold)

For the Filling

• 1 lb sweet potatoes (about 2 medium)
• 5 tablespoons (70 g) unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup (200 g) dark brown sugar (packed)
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon cloves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 cup (310 g) evaporated milk
• 1 tablespoon (15 g) vanilla extract

For Topping

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk
• whipped cream

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into cubes.
• Boil the cubes in salted water until they are tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Pie Crust

• In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
• Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Gradually add ice water and lemon juice until dough comes together.
• Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

• In a large bowl, mash the cooled sweet potatoes until smooth.
• Add softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

• Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
• Place rolled dough into the pie dish. Trim any excess edges.
• Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared crust.

Step 5: Bake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake for about 90 minutes or until set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Step 6: Finish Up

• Beat together egg and milk for an egg wash. Brush over crust edges before baking if desired.
• Allow cooling before slicing. Serve with whipped cream on top for added indulgence!

Enjoy your homemade Sweet Potato Pie!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to impress your guests.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of sweet potato pie straight from the oven, topped with a dollop of whipped cream for a traditional touch.

À la Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of warm sweet potato pie. The creamy texture complements the warm spices beautifully.

With Fresh Berries

• Garnish slices with fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the pie.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• For an indulgent twist, drizzle caramel sauce over each slice before serving. This adds a rich flavor that pairs well with sweet potatoes.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve sweet potato pie alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The warmth of the coffee enhances the pie’s comforting flavors.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Pie

Creating the perfect sweet potato pie requires attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out just right.

• Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Freshly cooked sweet potatoes provide better flavor and texture than canned versions.
• Chill Your Crust: Allow your pie crust to chill before baking. This helps prevent shrinkage and ensures a flaky texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix your filling just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a light and airy filling.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick or knife inserted in the center; it should come out clean when the pie is fully baked.
• Cool Before Serving: Let your pie cool completely before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes for cleaner slices.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider for your Thanksgiving table.

1. Green Bean Casserole: A classic dish made with green beans, cream soup, and crispy fried onions for added crunch.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil and roast until crispy, enhancing their natural sweetness.
3. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of sweet potato pie.
4. Stuffed Acorn Squash: Acorn squash stuffed with quinoa, nuts, and herbs makes for a wholesome and colorful addition.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with butter and salt offer comfort alongside the dessert’s sweetness.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Light and fluffy cornbread muffins add a delightful texture that complements the smoothness of sweet potato pie.
7. Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of carrots, parsnips, and beets roasted until caramelized brings out their earthy flavors.
8. Apple Salad: A crisp apple salad with nuts and vinaigrette offers a refreshing bite that balances the sweetness of the pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sweet potato pie can be simple, but certain mistakes can ruin your dessert. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect Measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect the texture and flavor. Always measure your ingredients accurately using the right tools.
• Overbaking the Pie: Leaving the pie in the oven too long can lead to a dry filling. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness before the recommended time.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can lead to a less smooth filling. Allow your ingredients to reach room temperature for better blending.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into your pie before it has cooled can result in a runny filling. Let it cool completely for better slicing and presentation.
• Neglecting Flavor Balance: Not adjusting spices or sweetness can lead to an unbalanced taste. Taste as you go and adjust according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.

Freezing Sweet Potato Pie

• Duration: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.

Reheating Sweet Potato Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making sweet potato pie:

How do I make Sweet Potato Pie from Scratch?

To make sweet potato pie from scratch, cook and mash sweet potatoes, mix with sugar, spices, eggs, and milk, then bake in a crust until set.

What is the best way to prepare sweet potatoes?

Boiling or steaming sweet potatoes until tender makes them easier to mash and blend into the pie filling.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes for my Sweet Potato Pie?

Yes, canned sweet potatoes can be used; just ensure they are drained well to avoid excess moisture.

How do I prevent my Sweet Potato Pie from cracking?

To prevent cracking, avoid overbaking and allow the pie to cool gradually at room temperature.

What toppings pair well with Sweet Potato Pie?

Whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon adds delightful flavor that complements the sweetness of the pie.

Final Thoughts

This homemade sweet potato pie is not only delicious but also versatile enough to customize with different spices or toppings. It’s perfect for any occasion, especially during Thanksgiving. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your family and friends will love it!