Description
This pie is a holiday staple throughout the South, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas. However, its incredible flavor makes it worthy of enjoying year-round. Whether served warm with whipped cream or chilled straight from the refrigerator, every bite is creamy, flavorful, and unforgettable.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 tablespoon butter for brushing (optional)
For the Sweet Potato Filling
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon
- Toasted pecans
- Caramel drizzle
- Candied pecans
- Marshmallow topping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and prick them several times with a fork.
Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until completely tender.
Allow them to cool slightly, then peel and mash until smooth.
Measure out exactly 2 cups of mashed sweet potatoes.
For the smoothest pie texture, blend the sweet potatoes in a food processor.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish.
Press gently into the dish and crimp the edges as desired.
Place the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Keeping the crust cold helps maintain a flaky texture during baking.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Mashed sweet potatoes
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
Add:
- Melted butter
- Buttermilk
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
Whisk until the mixture becomes creamy and silky.
Step 4: Add the Spices
Add:
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Ginger
- Cloves
- Salt
Mix thoroughly until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
The mixture should be smooth, creamy, and fragrant.
Step 5: Fill the Pie Shell
Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared pie crust.
Use a spatula to smooth the surface.
Tap the pie dish gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Place the pie on the center rack.
Bake for 55–65 minutes.
The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly.
A knife inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.
Step 7: Cool Properly
Remove the pie from the oven.
Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours.
As the pie cools, the filling will continue to set.
For best results, refrigerate for several hours before serving.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Top with whipped cream, toasted pecans, or a light dusting of cinnamon.
Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Baking sweet potatoes rather than boiling them intensifies their natural sweetness and prevents excess moisture from affecting the pie’s texture. Be careful not to overbake the pie. A slight jiggle in the center indicates the perfect custard consistency. Overbaking can cause cracks and a dry texture.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g