Introduction
Southern sweet potato pie is a timeless dessert that holds a special place in Southern cuisine. Known for its rich, creamy filling and buttery, flaky crust, this pie is a staple at holiday tables and family gatherings. With its warm spices and natural sweetness, Southern sweet potato pie is a comforting treat that brings people together. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe will guide you in creating a pie that’s sure to impress.
Why Southern Sweet Potato Pie?
Southern sweet potato pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a tradition. The combination of sweet potatoes, warm spices, and a buttery crust creates a flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and irresistible. It’s a dessert that embodies the warmth and hospitality of the South, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup evaporated milk (or whole milk)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and bake them for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Once cooled, peel and mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) for baking the pie.
- Make the Crust:Â In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll Out the Dough:Â On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough to the pie dish, trim the edges, and crimp as desired. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork and refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Filling:Â In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the mashed sweet potatoes and mix until well combined. Beat in the evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until the filling is smooth and well-mixed.
- Assemble the Pie:Â Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake the Pie:Â Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
- Cool and Serve:Â Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Serve at room temperature or chilled, with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Tips for Perfect Southern Sweet Potato Pie
- Mashing Sweet Potatoes:Â Ensure the sweet potatoes are well-mashed to avoid lumps in your pie filling.
- Spice Variations:Â Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Some people enjoy adding a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth.
- Storage:Â Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Health Benefits of Sweet Potato Pie
While this pie is a treat, sweet potatoes offer several health benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins:Â Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, which supports eye health, and vitamin C, which boosts immunity.
- High in Fiber:Â The fiber content in sweet potatoes aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
- Antioxidant Properties:Â Sweet potatoes contain antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
More Sweet Potato Recipes to Try
If you love sweet potatoes as much as we do, you’ll definitely want to check out these other delicious recipes:
- Sweet Potato and Ground Beef Skillet:Â A hearty and savory dish that combines sweet potatoes with ground beef for a satisfying meal. Perfect for dinner or meal prep!
- Easy Cake Recipes: If you’re in the mood for something sweet after your pie, explore this collection of easy cake recipes for a delightful dessert.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: A classic holiday side dish that’s creamy, sweet, and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel.
- Sweet Potato Fries:Â Crispy, baked sweet potato fries that are a healthier alternative to traditional fries. Great as a snack or side dish.
Conclusion
Southern sweet potato pie is a classic dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With its rich, creamy filling and flaky crust, it’s a treat that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious flavors of the South in every bite.