Sweet Potato Pie
Introduction
Sweet Potato Pie is a cherished Southern dessert that brings warmth, nostalgia, and silky-smooth comfort to any table. With its rich spices, creamy texture, and naturally sweet flavor, this pie is a beloved choice for holiday feasts, Sunday dinners, and family gatherings. Whether served warm or chilled, it delivers cozy, home-baked goodness in every forkful.
Ingredients & Quantities
For the Pie:
1 (9-inch / 23 cm) unbaked pie crust
2 cups (480 g) mashed cooked sweet potatoes
1 cup (240 ml) evaporated milk
2 large eggs
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (55 g) unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground ginger (optional)
¼ tsp salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel, boil, or roast sweet potatoes until very soft. Mash until smooth and measure 2 cups.
2. Preheat Oven:
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Whisk until silky and lump-free.
4. Fill the Crust:
Pour the mixture into the unbaked 9-inch pie crust and smooth the top.
5. Bake:
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted near the middle comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
Allow to cool fully before slicing. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Origin
Sweet Potato Pie has its roots in the American South, where sweet potatoes have been cultivated for centuries. Enslaved African cooks adapted traditional African yam-based dishes to the available produce in the Americas, creating a uniquely Southern dessert. Over generations, Sweet Potato Pie evolved into a holiday staple and a symbol of Southern culinary heritage.
Cultural Significance
In many African American households, Sweet Potato Pie holds deep emotional meaning. It represents family traditions, holiday warmth, and the legacy of ancestral cooking. It often appears on Thanksgiving and Christmas tables, but many enjoy it year-round as a comforting reminder of home.
Description
This pie features a smooth, creamy filling infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The sweet potatoes add natural sweetness, while evaporated milk creates a velvety texture. The result is a balanced, flavorful dessert that’s not too sweet—perfect for pairing with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Optional Additions
Maple syrup (1–2 tbsp): Adds deeper sweetness.
Brown sugar instead of white: Adds caramel flavor.
Pinch of cloves or allspice: Extra warmth.
Pecan topping: Crunchy, candy-like finish.
Orange zest: Fresh citrus brightness.
Tips for Success
Use roasted sweet potatoes for richer flavor and better texture than boiled.
Blend the filling to make it ultra-smooth and creamy.
Shield the crust edges with foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.
Cool completely to help the pie set properly.
Use room-temperature ingredients for easier mixing.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice, 1/8 pie)
Calories: 290–320
Carbohydrates: 46 g
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 10–12 g
Fiber: 3 g
Vitamin A: Over 200% DV (due to sweet potatoes)
(Values vary based on crust and sugar type.)
Conclusion
Sweet Potato Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a warm, nostalgic embrace. Its creamy texture, aromatic spices, and rich history make it a dish that connects generations and brings joy to every gathering.
Recommendation
Serve this pie slightly warm with homemade whipped cream for an unforgettable experience. It pairs beautifully with coffee, spiced tea, or a holiday meal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Sweet potatoes are naturally rich in fiber, antioxidants, and Vitamin A. When paired with mindful portions and wholesome ingredients, this pie becomes a dessert that’s both comforting and nourishing—proof that indulgence can also be balanced and healthful.
To continue receiving my recipes, type “YES”.