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 is made with dark brown sugar and warm fall spices, topped with fresh whipped cream for the ultimate holiday dessert. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering, this dessert will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a rich, comforting taste that embodies the essence of the season.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delightful pie without hassle.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: While it’s an ideal holiday dessert, you can enjoy it year-round for birthdays, family gatherings, or just because!
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with whipped cream or chilled for a refreshing treat—either way, it’s a hit!
• Nutritional Benefits: Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and fiber, making this dessert a slightly healthier indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious sweet potato pie, gather your tools. Having everything at hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively. A set of varying sizes helps in organizing different components.
• Rolling pin: Perfect for rolling out dough to the desired thickness. It ensures an even crust that bakes uniformly.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Saves time when mixing ingredients like eggs and sugar. A good mixer provides a fluffy texture to your filling.

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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

Start by boiling the sweet potatoes until tender. This usually takes about 20 minutes. Once cooked, allow them to cool slightly before peeling.

Step 2: Make the Pie Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add ice water and lemon juice gradually until dough forms.
4. Roll out on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly.

Step 4: Combine Filling Ingredients

In another mixing bowl:
1. Mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth.
2. Add softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, spices, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Pour the filling into your prepared pie crust. Smooth out the top with a spatula for an even finish.

Step 6: Bake

Place your pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until set.

Step 7: Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, whisk together one egg and milk. Brush over the edges of the crust during the last 10 minutes of baking for a golden finish.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow your pie to cool before slicing. Top each slice with whipped cream before serving for an extra treat!

Enjoy your homemade Sweet Potato Pie, perfect for sharing with loved ones!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your sweet potato pie experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Top your pie with a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream for added richness and creaminess.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve a slice alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream to complement the warm spices in the pie.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• Drizzle pure maple syrup over each slice for an added touch of sweetness and flavor.

Warmed Up

• Gently reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds, enhancing the flavors and creating a cozy dessert experience.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Pair slices with seasonal fruits like apples or pears for a refreshing contrast to the rich filling.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Pie

Perfecting your sweet potato pie takes a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for an irresistible dessert.

• Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes that are firm and free from blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
• Pre-bake Your Crust: Pre-baking the crust helps prevent sogginess, ensuring it stays crisp after adding the filling.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature before mixing; this creates a smoother filling.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid a tough texture; overmixing can lead to a less desirable consistency.
• Allow Cooling Time: Let your pie cool completely before slicing; this helps set the filling for cleaner cuts.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Pie

Pairing side dishes with sweet potato pie can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds earthy flavors that balance out the sweetness of the pie.
2. Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers freshness and contrasts beautifully with the rich dessert.
3. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce complements sweet potato pie perfectly, adding brightness to each bite.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides additional sweetness and texture, making it an ideal partner for this dessert.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with herbs provide comfort that pairs well with sweet flavors.
6. Stuffing: Savory stuffing made with herbs and vegetables creates an interesting flavor combination alongside sweet potato pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making sweet potato pie, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final taste and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Incorrect Sweet Potato Measurement: Using too much or too little sweet potato can alter the flavor and consistency. Make sure to weigh your sweet potatoes for accuracy.
• Overmixing the Filling: Overmixing can lead to a tough texture in the pie. Mix just until combined for a smooth and creamy filling.
• Ignoring the Crust Chilling Time: A warm crust can cause the filling to leak. Chill your crust thoroughly before adding the filling for best results.
• Not Testing for Doneness: Relying solely on cooking time may lead to undercooked or overcooked pies. Use a toothpick inserted into the center to check if it comes out clean.
• Skipping the Whipped Cream Topping: While optional, skipping whipped cream can take away from the indulgence of sweet potato pie. Don’t forget this delicious finishing touch!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Sweet potato pie lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sweet Potato Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Sweet Potato Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 30-second intervals until warm, but be cautious as this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sweet Potato Pie?

Sweet potato pie is a classic dessert made with mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, and spices baked in a flaky crust. It is especially popular during fall and Thanksgiving celebrations.

How do I know when my Sweet Potato Pie is done?

Your sweet potato pie is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I make Sweet Potato Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and bake your pie ahead of time. Just store it properly in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of eggs in Sweet Potato Pie?

If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a mixture of flaxseed meal and water as alternatives.

Final Thoughts

This homemade sweet potato pie is not only a delightful addition to any holiday table but also allows for customization. You can adjust spices or toppings based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!