Sweet potato pie is a classic Southern dessert that features a velvety filling made from mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, all encased in a buttery, flaky pie crust. The result is a rich, slightly earthy, and subtly spiced pie that strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and warmth. Its creamy texture is complemented by the comforting aroma of baked spices, making it a favorite during the fall and holiday seasons....
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Prepare the sweet potatoes:
Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and microwave them for 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Alternatively, you can roast them at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes until soft. Let them cool slightly, then peel off the skins and mash the flesh in a bowl until smooth.
Make the filling:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and ginger (if using). Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Assemble the pie:
Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. If using a store-bought crust, ensure it’s thawed and ready for use.
Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly.
Bake the pie:
Place the pie on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges of the crust are golden brown. You can test doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Cool and serve:
Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature, about 2 hours, before slicing. This helps the filling set fully.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence!
Roasting the sweet potatoes brings an extra depth of flavor.
How do I prepare sweet potatoes for sweet potato pie?
To prepare sweet potatoes for your sweet potato pie, pierce them with a fork and microwave for 8-10 minutes until tender. Alternatively, you can roast them at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes until soft. Once cooked, let them cool slightly, peel off the skins, and mash the flesh until smooth.
Can I make sweet potato pie without eggs for a vegan option?
Yes, you can make a vegan sweet potato pie by substituting the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. For each egg, use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water or 1/4 cup of applesauce. Additionally, replace the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil and almond milk.
What are some good storage tips for leftover sweet potato pie?
To store leftover sweet potato pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it securely and thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I serve with sweet potato pie for a complete dessert experience?
Sweet potato pie pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for added flavor. For a festive touch, consider adding candied pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
What can I use as a substitute for brown sugar in sweet potato pie?
If you don't have brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of granulated sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses for each cup of brown sugar needed. This will give you a similar flavor and moisture level in your sweet potato pie filling.
