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 family gatherings or festive dinners, this recipe promises a delightful blend of flavors that will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make it simple for both novice and experienced bakers to create this delicious pie.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of dark brown sugar and warm spices gives this pie a rich, comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Versatile Dessert: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this sweet potato pie will always be a welcomed treat.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique flavor profile appeals to all ages, ensuring that everyone enjoys a slice (or two!).
• Customizable Toppings: Serve it plain or add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

To make your sweet potato pie successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish
• Potato masher
• Hand mixer or whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are vital for combining your ingredients efficiently without any mess.
• Pie dish: A good quality pie dish ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect crust.
• Hand mixer or whisk: These tools are essential for blending ingredients smoothly, especially when incorporating eggs into the filling.

Ingredients

To create this delicious sweet potato pie, gather 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 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 Egg Wash

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk

Serving Suggestion

• whipped cream

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by boiling your sweet potatoes until they are tender. Once cooked, peel them and mash until smooth.

Step 2: Make the Pie Crust

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

Step 3: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 4: Prepare Sweet Potato Filling

In a large bowl:
1. Combine mashed sweet potatoes with softened butter.
2. Mix in dark brown sugar until well blended.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in spices, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

1. Roll out your chilled pie crust on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
2. Place crust in the dish and trim excess edges.
3. Pour sweet potato filling into the prepared crust.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for about 90 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly puffed up.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Let cool before slicing. Serve topped with whipped cream if desired.

Enjoy making this delightful 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 gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your sweet potato pie experience.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of sweet potato pie with a dollop of whipped cream for a traditional touch.

A La Mode

• Pair your slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast that enhances the flavors.

With Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of your pie for added crunch and flavor.

Drizzled with Caramel

• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the whipped cream to introduce a rich sweetness that complements the spices.

Warmed Up

• Heat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving, allowing the flavors to shine even more.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Pie

Creating the perfect sweet potato pie involves attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to help you achieve that ideal flavor and texture.

• Choose Quality Sweet Potatoes: Opt for fresh, firm sweet potatoes for better taste and texture.
• Pre-bake Your Crust: Baking your pie crust briefly before adding the filling helps prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs and butter to room temperature helps them blend better, ensuring a smooth filling.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks in your pie.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean when the pie is fully baked.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie is not only delicious on its own but also pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some options that complement its rich flavors perfectly.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider enhances the cozy fall vibes during your meal.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a savory crunch that balances the sweetness of the pie.
3. Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish provides a creamy texture and earthy flavors that pair well with sweet potato pie.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Their slightly sweet taste complements the spices in the pie, making for an enjoyable combination.
5. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of sweet potato pie.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette adds brightness and cuts through the richness of dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sweet Potato Pie, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final product. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling. Cold ingredients can result in a lumpy texture.
• Overmixing the filling: Mix the sweet potato filling just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense pie, rather than a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow your pie to cool completely before serving. Cutting into a warm pie can cause it to lose its shape and flavor.
• Not weighing your ingredients: Measure flour and sugar accurately using a kitchen scale. Incorrect measurements can throw off the pie’s consistency and sweetness.
• Ignoring spice freshness: Use fresh spices for the best flavor. Old spices lose their potency, which can dull the overall taste of your Sweet Potato Pie.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Sweet Potato Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing Sweet Potato Pie

• Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for optimal protection.
• Sweet Potato Pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label it with the date.

Reheating Sweet Potato Pie

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat. Cover and warm for about 5 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Sweet Potato Pie:

How long does Sweet Potato Pie last?

Sweet Potato Pie lasts about 4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I freeze Sweet Potato Pie?

Yes! You can freeze Sweet Potato Pie for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s wrapped well.

What is the best way to reheat Sweet Potato Pie?

The best method is using an oven, as it maintains the pie’s texture. Microwaving is quick but may not give you that fresh-baked feel.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust spices or use different types of sweeteners while keeping the core elements intact.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Sweet Potato Pie not only brings warmth and nostalgia but also offers versatility in flavors and toppings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or serve it with ice cream or whipped cream. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress at any gathering!