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 and topped with fresh whipped cream for the ultimate holiday dessert. Perfect for gatherings, cozy dinners, or any special occasion, this pie will stand out on your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This sweet potato pie recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of dark brown sugar and warm spices creates a rich and comforting taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any gathering, this pie can be served warm or chilled.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of making a classic dessert from scratch with wholesome ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful sweet potato pie, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help ensure that your baking experience is smooth and fun.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Whisk
• Potato masher

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie dish: A good-quality pie dish ensures even baking and a beautiful crust.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to easily combine ingredients without any mess.
• Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into the filling, making it light and fluffy.

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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 Sweet Potato 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 the Topping

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk
• whipped cream

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in the cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in the ice water and lemon juice until just combined. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook Sweet Potatoes

1. Boil or steam the sweet potatoes until tender. Allow them to cool slightly before peeling.
2. Mash the sweet potatoes in a bowl until smooth.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In another mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and dark brown sugar until creamy.
2. Add the mashed sweet potatoes, eggs, spices, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
3. Transfer the dough to the pie dish and fill it with the sweet potato filling.

Step 5: Bake

1. Beat an egg with milk for an egg wash. Brush it over the crust edges.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until set in the center.

Enjoy your delicious homemade sweet potato pie!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your sweet potato pie experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve slices of sweet potato pie warm or at room temperature, topped with a dollop of whipped cream for a traditional touch.

A La Mode

• For an indulgent twist, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm pie.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair sweet potato pie with fresh fruit such as sliced apples or pears. This adds a refreshing crunch and balances the sweetness of the pie.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling caramel sauce over each slice. This luxurious addition complements the spices in the pie.

Nutty Topping

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the whipped cream for added texture and crunch, creating an appealing presentation.

Coffee Companion

• Serve slices alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The rich flavors of coffee enhance the sweetness of the pie while providing a cozy experience.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Pie

Achieving the perfect sweet potato pie requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to create a mouthwatering dessert that leaves everyone wanting more.

• Choose fresh sweet potatoes: Fresh, ripe sweet potatoes yield better flavor than canned versions. Look for firm, smooth-skinned potatoes without blemishes.

• Bake instead of boil: Baking sweet potatoes concentrates their natural sugars and enhances flavor. Roast them until tender before mashing for your filling.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth filling and improves texture.

• Don’t skip the spices: Warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg add depth to your sweet potato filling. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

• Blind bake the crust: Pre-baking the crust prevents it from becoming soggy when filled with wet ingredients. Aim for a light golden color before adding the filling.

• Let it cool properly: Allow your pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps set the filling and ensures clean cuts for beautiful presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here’s a list of side dishes that enhance your dessert experience.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots roasted with olive oil provide a savory contrast to sweet potato pie.

2. Green Salad: A simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette offers freshness and balances out the richness of the pie.

3. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet cornbread muffins serve as a delightful accompaniment, adding texture and flavor variety.

4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned lightly can bring comfort food vibes that pair well with dessert.

5. Baked Apples: Warm baked apples with cinnamon make for an excellent fruity side that harmonizes nicely with sweet potato flavors.

6. Cranberry Sauce: Tart cranberry sauce adds brightness and acidity, enhancing each bite of sweet potato pie deliciously.

7. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can offer an interesting flavor contrast, making for an enjoyable post-dinner treat.

8. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup serves as a comforting starter that transitions beautifully into dessert time!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sweet potato pie can be easy, but certain mistakes can ruin the final product. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using fresh sweet potatoes without cooking: Always cook your sweet potatoes before mashing them. Boiling or baking until soft enhances their natural sweetness and flavor.

• Neglecting the crust: A soggy crust can ruin your pie. Pre-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling to prevent this issue.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so ensure you measure your ingredients precisely. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for best results.

• Overbaking the pie: Keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. Overbaking can result in a dry texture. Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.

• Skipping spices: The right spices are crucial for flavor. Don’t skip on cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg, as they give the pie its warm fall taste.

• Using too much sugar: While sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, be cautious with added sugars. Start with less and adjust according to your taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your sweet potato pie in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sweet Potato Pie

• Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Sweet Potato Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making sweet potato pie:

What is Sweet Potato Pie made of?

Sweet potato pie is primarily made from cooked sweet potatoes, eggs, brown sugar, spices like cinnamon and ginger, and a creamy filling often enriched with evaporated milk.

How do I make Sweet Potato Pie from scratch?

To make sweet potato pie from scratch, cook sweet potatoes until soft, mash them, and combine with other ingredients like sugar and spices before pouring into a prepared crust and baking until set.

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

Yes! Canned sweet potatoes can be used in place of fresh ones. Just make sure to drain them well before mashing to avoid excess moisture.

How long does Sweet Potato Pie last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, sweet potato pie lasts for up to 3 days. If frozen, it can last up to 2 months while maintaining its flavor and texture.

Can I add other flavors to my Sweet Potato Pie?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding flavors such as orange zest or even chocolate chips for a unique twist on this classic dessert.

Final Thoughts

This homemade sweet potato pie is not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to various tastes. You can customize it with different spices or add-ins according to your preference. Try this recipe this season and impress family and friends with your baking skills!