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 gatherings, this dish will surely become a cherished tradition at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes and warm spices creates a comforting taste that everyone loves.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create a stunning dessert.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm or chilled; it pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.
• Perfect for Holidays: This sweet potato pie is an ideal dessert for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion.
• Family Favorite: Its nostalgic flavor is sure to evoke memories and create new ones.

Tools and Preparation

To make your sweet potato pie, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish
• Whisk or electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients evenly, ensuring your pie has the perfect texture.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin helps you achieve a uniform crust thickness, making your pie visually appealing.
• Pie dish: The right dish ensures even baking and allows for easy serving once the pie is ready.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful sweet potato pie, gather the following ingredients:

For the 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: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your pie cooks evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Boil or steam the sweet potatoes until they are soft, which will take about 20-30 minutes.
2. Once cooked, let them cool slightly before peeling.

Step 3: 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. Gradually add ice water and lemon juice until dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface and fit it into a pie dish. Trim excess edges.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

1. In another bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
2. Add softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract.
3. Mix until well-combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Pour the filling into the prepared crust. Smooth out with a spatula if necessary.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Bake in preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until set. The filling should be firm yet slightly jiggly when you gently shake it.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool on a wire rack before slicing. Brush with egg wash mixed with milk for a golden top if desired. Serve slices topped with whipped cream for an extra treat!

Enjoy creating this delicious sweet potato pie that will delight everyone at your gathering!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie

Serving sweet potato pie can be a delightful experience, especially during the holidays. This creamy and spiced dessert pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to make your sweet potato pie even more enjoyable.

Classic with Whipped Cream

• Serve slices of sweet potato pie topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch that adds creaminess and sweetness.

A La Mode

• Pair your slice with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm pie, creating a heavenly combination.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of sweetness and richness that complements the spices in the pie.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears. The freshness balances the richness of the pie, providing a refreshing bite.

Nutty Crunch

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top. The nuts add crunch and enhance the flavor profile, making each bite more exciting.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Enjoy your sweet potato pie with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea. The warmth of the drink pairs well with the spices in the pie and creates a cozy atmosphere.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Pie

Perfecting your sweet potato pie is all about attention to detail and using quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes provide better flavor and texture compared to canned versions. Roast them until tender for the best results.

• Chill Your Dough: After preparing your pie crust, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps maintain its structure while baking.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the filling ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, which is not desirable in pies.

• Check for Doneness: Bake until the center is set but slightly jiggly when gently shaken. This ensures a creamy filling without being overcooked.

• Cool Before Serving: Allow your sweet potato pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes for cleaner slices.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices like cinnamon or ginger according to your taste preference for a personalized flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie is rich and flavorful, making it essential to find side dishes that complement its taste without overpowering it. Here are some excellent side dishes that pair beautifully with sweet potato pie:

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes roasted until caramelized enhances earthy flavors.

2. Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette adds brightness and balances out the richness of the pie.

3. Stuffing: Savory stuffing made with herbs and vegetables provides a hearty complement that works nicely during holiday meals.

4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort alongside sweet potato pie while keeping flavors harmonious on your plate.

5. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness from cranberry sauce contrasts beautifully with sweetness, adding an exciting twist to each bite.

6. Cornbread: Moist cornbread brings a slightly sweet yet rustic element, pairing perfectly as a side dish for this classic dessert.

7. Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots bring out similar flavors found in sweet potatoes while adding vibrant color to your meal.

8. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup serves as an inviting starter that sets up the palate for later enjoyment of sweet potato pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making sweet potato pie, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dessert to perfection.

• Bold Flavor Overload: Using too many spices can overpower the sweet potato’s natural flavor. Stick to the recipe for a balanced taste.
• Incorrect Sweetness: Not measuring the dark brown sugar accurately can lead to an overly sweet or bland pie. Use packed measurements for consistency.
• Improper Baking Time: Overbaking will result in a dry pie. Keep an eye on it and test for doneness with a knife inserted in the center.
• Skipping the Cooling Period: Cutting into a hot pie may cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
• Neglecting the Crust: A soggy crust can ruin your pie. Pre-bake the crust slightly before adding the filling to ensure it remains crisp.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store sweet potato pie in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sweet Potato Pie

• Sweet potato pie can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Sweet Potato Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sweet Potato Pie?

Sweet potato pie is a traditional dessert made with mashed sweet potatoes, spices, and sometimes other ingredients like evaporated milk. It’s loved for its creamy texture and rich flavor.

How do I make Sweet Potato Pie from scratch?

To make sweet potato pie from scratch, you’ll need fresh sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, and spices mixed into a pie crust. Follow the recipe closely for best results.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

While this recipe is specifically for sweet potato pie, you could experiment with other root vegetables like butternut squash, but the flavor will differ significantly.

How should I serve Sweet Potato Pie?

Sweet potato pie is best served chilled or at room temperature, often topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Final Thoughts

This sweet potato pie is not only delicious and comforting but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or using different spices. Try this recipe this Thanksgiving and impress your friends and family!