Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

Southern Sweet Potato Pie is one of those desserts that brings back fond memories for me. Growing up in the South, this pie was a staple at family gatherings and holiday celebrations. The creamy filling, warm spices, and buttery crust create a delightful treat that’s hard to resist. Today, I want to share my favorite Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe, along with some tips and stories that make this dish truly special.

Why Sweet Potato Pie is a Southern Tradition

Sweet potato pie holds a special place in Southern culture. It’s often served at family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. For many, it’s a symbol of comfort and togetherness. I remember my grandmother making this pie every Thanksgiving, filling the house with its warm aroma. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a reminder of family traditions and love.

Ingredients for Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

Servings: 8 servings

Pie Filling:

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Pie Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 1/4 cup ice water

How to Make Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Making the pie crust from scratch is simple and adds a homemade touch. Here’s how I do it:

1. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt together.
2. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms.
4. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the star of this pie. Here’s how I prepare them:

1. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks.
2. Boil them in a pot of water for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
3. Drain and mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. You can also bake them for a sweeter flavor.

Making the Sweet Potato Filling

Now for the fun part making the filling! Here’s how I do it:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.

Baking the Pie

Baking the pie is the final step. Here’s how I make sure it turns out perfectly:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the pie for 55-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let the pie cool completely before serving.

Serving Ideas for Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Southern Sweet Potato Pie is delicious on its own, but here are some ways I like to serve it:

• Top with whipped cream for added sweetness.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Tips

To ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Use fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor.
• Don’t skip the spices; they add warmth and depth to the pie.
• Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to help it set.

Storing Leftover Pie

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how I store them:

• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• You can also freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly and place it in a freezer-safe container.

Variations of Southern Sweet Potato Pie

While the classic recipe is always a favorite, there are many ways to switch it up:

• Add a touch of bourbon for a richer flavor.
• Mix in some orange zest for a citrusy twist.
• Top with pecans or caramel for added texture and sweetness.

Enjoying Your Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

Southern Sweet Potato Pie is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of Southern cooking. With its creamy filling and flaky crust, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. I hope you enjoy making this pie as much as I do, and that it brings back wonderful memories for you and your loved ones. So grab your ingredients and get ready to bake a pie that’s sure to be a hit!