There’s something truly special about a Classic Sweet Potato Pie—the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, the creamy sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes, and that perfectly flaky pie crust. It’s a dessert that brings back memories of holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, and cozy fall evenings.
This sweet potato pie is a beloved staple, especially in Southern kitchens, and for a good reason—it’s simple to make, rich in flavor, and absolutely comforting. If you love traditional pies but want something different from pumpkin pie, this recipe will be your new go-to.
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Why You’ll Love This Classic Sweet Potato Pie
- Rich, creamy texture – Thanks to the perfect blend of mashed sweet potatoes and butter.
- Warm and spiced – With hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, every bite is full of cozy flavors.
- Perfect for any occasion – Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just because, this pie is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Easy to make – With simple ingredients and minimal prep, even beginner bakers can master this pie!
What Does Sweet Potato Pie Taste Like?
Imagine a smooth, custard-like filling that’s naturally sweet with earthy undertones from roasted sweet potatoes. Unlike pumpkin pie, which can be denser, sweet potato pie is light yet creamy, with a buttery crust that melts in your mouth. The combination of vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg makes it taste like pure comfort.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Pie
For the Filling:
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (from 2-3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and boiled until soft)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Pie:
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- 9-inch pie pan
- Aluminum foil (optional, for crust protection)
- Cooling rack
Ingredient Substitutions & Additions
- Milk – Swap whole milk for evaporated milk or half-and-half for extra richness.
- Spices – Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for deeper warmth.
- Sweetness – Replace white sugar with brown sugar or maple syrup for a caramel-like depth.
- Pie Crust – Try a graham cracker crust or a homemade butter crust for a fun twist!
How to Make Classic Sweet Potato Pie
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the mashed sweet potatoes and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
Next, add the sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix everything together until well combined, creating a velvety, rich filling.
3. Assemble the Pie
Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
4. Bake the Pie
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.
Tip: If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
5. Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool completely at room temperature before slicing. This helps the filling firm up and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Pie
- Whipped cream – A dollop of homemade whipped cream makes every bite dreamy.
- Vanilla ice cream – Adds a creamy contrast to the warm spices.
- Caramel drizzle – For extra indulgence, drizzle a little caramel sauce on top!
Expert Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Pie
- Roast, don’t boil! Roasting sweet potatoes instead of boiling them brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- Blend well. For an ultra-smooth filling, use a food processor or hand mixer.
- Chill before serving. Letting the pie sit for a few hours in the fridge helps it set even better.
How to Store Sweet Potato Pie
- Refrigerate – Cover and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze – Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make sweet potato pie ahead of time?
Yes! Sweet potato pie tastes even better the next day. Bake it a day in advance, let it cool, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. Why is my sweet potato pie runny?
If the filling is too runny, it may need more baking time. Also, make sure your sweet potatoes are well-drained if boiled.
3. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
You can, but fresh sweet potatoes provide a better texture and richer taste. If using canned, drain and mash them well.
4. How do I prevent my pie crust from burning?
Use a pie crust shield or cover the edges with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
5. What’s the difference between sweet potato pie and pumpkin pie?
Sweet potato pie is naturally sweeter and has a silkier, lighter texture, while pumpkin pie tends to be denser and more spiced.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Sweet Potato Pie is a nostalgic, soul-warming dessert that’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re preparing it for the holidays or just because, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. The creamy filling, buttery crust, and warm spices make every bite pure perfection.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turned out! Share your creations on Pinterest and leave a review below—I’d love to hear from you!
More Delicious Recipes to Try
- Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake – A Moist & Flavorful Delight – A soft, tender cake bursting with fresh strawberry flavor.
- Southern Pecan Pie – A nutty, caramel-like classic!
- Pumpkin Pie with Brown Sugar Crust – Perfect for fall lovers.
Enjoy baking! 🥧💕