Introduce Your Recipe with a Story
Growing up in my grandmother’s kitchen was like stepping into a world filled with warmth, smells, and flavors that danced in the air. Every autumn, as the leaves turned golden and the air became crisp, she would take me by the hand and guide me through her traditional recipes, ensuring that her secrets passed down through generations weren’t lost to time. One of my favorites was her Southern Sweet Potato Pie, a dish that wasn’t just a dessert but an intimate connection to my roots, celebrating the richness of American cuisine.
This sweet potato pie embodies the season with its warm spices and creamy filling, bringing a touch of nostalgia and joy each time I make it. Sweet, spiced, and oh-so-comforting, this pie promises to be the centerpiece of your holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Pie
- Seasonal Delight: Perfect for fall gatherings or Thanksgiving feasts.
- Made from Scratch: Experience the satisfaction of creating a beloved classic.
- Family Friendly: A recipe that kids will love and cherish as they grow.
- Versatile Serving Options: Delicious warm, at room temperature, or even chilled.
- Rich in Flavor: A delightful combination of flavors that evoke warmth and comfort.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2-3 medium sweet potatoes)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop sweet potatoes into large pieces. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash: Drain the sweet potatoes and then mash them until smooth in a mixing bowl.
Make the Filling
- Combine Ingredients: Add sugar, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla, and spices to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix until well combined and creamy.
- Pour into Crust: Place your pre-made pie crust into a pie dish and gently pour the filling inside.
Bake
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the pie cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Add Maple Syrup: Replace some sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cloves or allspice.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute evaporated milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust if desired.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil to freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Calories per Serving: Approx. 250
- Servings: 8
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead?
- Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes; just ensure to drain them well.
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How do I know when the pie is done?
- The pie is done when the center is set and a knife inserted should come out clean.
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Can I make this ahead of time?
- Absolutely! This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
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What can I top this pie with?
- Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even caramel sauce make delicious toppings.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair this creamy sweet potato pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or serve it alongside a warm cup of spiced chai for a cozy experience. It goes beautifully with roasted turkey or ham for the holidays as well.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Sweet Potato Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of my upbringing, a recipe that holds stories and memories of love shared around the table. I invite you to try this recipe and share your creations or any personal touches you’ve added. Leave a comment below to let me know how your pie turns out! Happy cooking!