magine stepping into a cozy Southern kitchen, where the comforting aroma of freshly baked Homestyle Sweet Potato Pie fills the air. This classic dessert is more than just a treat; it’s a warm, nostalgic hug from grandma’s kitchen.
Author’s Note – Southern Comfort: There’s something undeniably special about Southern desserts, and Sweet Potato Pie is a cherished classic. This recipe captures the essence of Southern hospitality and the rich culinary traditions of the region.
To begin, you’ll need your trusty dough for a single-crust pie. Roll it out, line a 9-inch pie plate, and create those beautiful fluted edges. Then, give it a brief chill while we work on the star ingredient: sweet potatoes.
Two medium-sized sweet potatoes, totaling about 1 and 1/2 pounds, take center stage. We’ll boil these until they’re tender, ready to be mashed into velvety goodness.
For the filling, we start by creaming together softened butter and sugar. It’s like creating a sweet, buttery canvas for our masterpiece. Then, we introduce two large eggs, lightly beaten, followed by a medley of flavor-enhancing ingredients.
Evaporated milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt join the party. These warm spices dance together, infusing the filling with that unmistakable Southern charm.
With your pie crust patiently waiting, it’s time to assemble this masterpiece. Fill that crust with the luscious sweet potato mixture, smoothing it out like a work of art.
Baking is the final step in this journey. We start hot at 425°F for 15 minutes to set the stage. Then, we drop the temperature to 350°F to let the magic happen. The pie will emerge from the oven with a golden crown, a testament to your baking prowess.
As tempting as it may be, exercise patience. Allow the pie to cool to room temperature. It’s during this time that the flavors meld, creating a harmonious symphony of sweet potato goodness.
When you’re ready to serve, consider topping each slice with a dollop of whipped cream. It’s the proverbial cherry on top of this Southern delight.
Now, when it comes to flavor twists, there are a couple of options. You can opt for brown sugar instead of white to deepen the sweetness. Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of cloves for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
In terms of storage, you can keep this pie at room temperature for the day. If you’re planning for the week, the fridge is your friend, keeping it fresh for 4-5 days.
Have you ventured into the world of Homestyle Sweet Potato Pie? We’d love to hear about your pie pride. Share your baking adventures in the comments or on social media, and let’s revel in the joy of pie time!
Key Takeaways
- Prep & Cook: A bit of peeling and mashing leads to a 50-minute bake.
- Texture: Creamy sweet potato filling encased in flaky crust.
- Taste: Warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg mingle with vanilla.
- Serving Suggestion: Elevate it with a dollop of whipped cream!
Sweet Potato Pie
Savor the flavors of the South with this classic sweet potato pie. It’s like a warm hug from grandma’s kitchen!
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dough for Single-Crust Pie | 1 |
| Medium Sweet Potatoes | 2 (about 1-1/2 pounds) |
| Butter, softened | 1/3 cup |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Large Eggs, lightly beaten | 2 |
| Evaporated Milk | 3/4 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ground Nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Whipped Cream (optional) | For serving |
Directions
- Crust Prep: Roll dough, line a 9-in. pie plate, and flute the edge. Chill it.
- Boil Potatoes: Cook sweet potatoes until tender, then mash them up.
- Filling Mix: Cream the butter and sugar. Add in eggs, then the rest of the filling goodies.
- Assemble: Fill that crust with your sweet potato mixture.
- Bake Off: Start hot at 425° for 15 minutes, then drop to 350° to finish.
- Cool & Serve: Let it reach room temp. Whipped cream on top? Oh yes!
Flavor Twists
- Sweet Boost: Brown sugar can replace white for a deeper taste.
- Spice It Up: Feeling adventurous? A pinch of cloves can add extra warmth.
Storage
- Counter: Fine for the day.
- Fridge: Keeps well for 4-5 days, making it great for prep-ahead.
Share Your Pie Pride
Did you whip up this homestyle dessert? Don’t be shy, let us know how it turned out in the comments or share a slice on social media.
Special Equipment:
Serving Suggestions:
- Elevate your sweet potato pie experience with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. The creamy sweetness of the whipped cream complements the warm, spiced flavors of the pie beautifully.
Tips & Variations:
- For a twist on the classic, try using brown sugar instead of white sugar in the filling. It will add a deeper, richer flavor to your sweet potato pie.
- Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of ground cloves to the filling for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
- Make it a day ahead! This pie can be refrigerated for 4-5 days, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for gatherings and special occasions.
Common Questions:
Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
While fresh sweet potatoes are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them thoroughly before mashing and adjust the sugar accordingly, as canned sweet potatoes may be pre-sweetened.
Is there a difference between sweet potato pie and pumpkin pie?
Yes, there is! While both pies share similarities, sweet potato pie is known for its distinctive sweet, earthy flavor, while pumpkin pie tends to be more mildly spiced. Sweet potato pie also has a creamier texture.
Can I freeze sweet potato pie?
Yes, you can freeze sweet potato pie! Once it’s baked and cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What’s the best way to achieve a flaky pie crust?
To ensure a flaky pie crust, make sure your pie dough is well-chilled before rolling it out. Additionally, avoid overworking the dough and handle it as little as possible. Finally, using cold butter or shortening in the dough is crucial.
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Absolutely! If you prefer to make the pie crust from scratch, you can find various pie crust recipes online or in cookbooks. Homemade pie crusts can add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your sweet potato pie.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of the South with this classic Sweet Potato Pie. Whether you opt for a dollop of whipped cream or enjoy it as-is, it’s a heartwarming dessert that brings the essence of grandma’s kitchen to your table. Enjoy your pie time!
Enjoy Your Pie Time!
