Sweet potato pie is a dessert that feels like home. It’s rich, smooth, and full of warm spices that instantly remind you of holidays and family gatherings.
Unlike pumpkin pie, it has a deeper, earthier sweetness that comes from the potatoes themselves.
It’s simple to make, yet it always tastes special, like something baked with love and tradition.
Sweet Potato Pie
This pie has roots in Southern kitchens where sweet potatoes were a staple ingredient. Over the years, it became a cherished dessert served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Sunday dinners.
What makes it unique is the way the natural sweetness of the potatoes blends with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.
The filling is creamy, custard-like, and baked inside a buttery pie crust until it’s golden and fragrant.
Ingredients
To make a classic sweet potato pie, you’ll need:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 ½ cups mashed)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (you can swap part with brown sugar for more depth)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk (evaporated milk works beautifully for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Optional but delicious add-ins: a pinch of ginger, a splash of bourbon, or a handful of toasted pecans on top.
Instructions
- Cook the sweet potatoes. Peel and chop them, then boil until soft (about 20 minutes). Drain and mash until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes and butter until creamy. Stir in sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, and spices. Mix until everything is smooth and well-blended.
- Assemble the pie. Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake. Place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 55–60 minutes. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly—it will firm up as it cools.
- Cool completely. Let the pie rest on the counter before slicing, so the filling holds together.
How to Serve It
Sweet potato pie tastes best slightly chilled or at room temperature. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it over the top.
Sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on the cream for extra warmth.
If you want to dress it up for the holidays, add a drizzle of caramel sauce or scatter some candied pecans on top. Serve it with coffee or spiced tea for the perfect cozy pairing.
Conclusion
Sweet potato pie is the kind of dessert that feels timeless. It’s simple, comforting, and always makes a table feel more inviting.
With its creamy texture, sweet flavor, and fragrant spices, it’s no wonder this pie has become a classic in so many homes.
Whether it’s for the holidays or just a weekend treat, a slice of sweet potato pie is pure comfort on a plate.