Introduction
Sweet potato pie is a beloved dessert, but sometimes you don’t need a whole pie to satisfy your craving. That’s where this sweet potato pie for two comes in! This mini version of the classic Southern dessert is perfectly portioned for a cozy night in or a small gathering. With its creamy, spiced filling and flaky crust, this pie is just as delicious as the full-sized version but without the leftovers.
Why Sweet Potato Pie for Two?
This recipe is ideal for couples, small households, or anyone who wants to enjoy a homemade dessert without the hassle of storing leftovers. It’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers all the comforting flavors of traditional sweet potato pie in a smaller package.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1-2 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
- ¾ cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 1 small sweet potato)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons evaporated milk (or whole milk)
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potato with a fork and bake it for about 30-40 minutes, or until tender. Once cooled, peel and mash the sweet potato until smooth. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) for baking the pie.
- Make the Crust: In a small 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 ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a small pie dish or two individual ramekins (about 4-5 inches in diameter). Transfer the dough to the dish(es), 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: In a medium 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, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until the filling is smooth and well-mixed.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the filling into the prepared crust(s) and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake the Pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 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: Allow the pie to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Pie for Two
- Mashing Sweet Potatoes: Ensure the sweet potatoes are well-mashed to avoid lumps in your pie filling.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. A pinch of cloves or allspice can add extra warmth.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Health Benefits of Sweet Potato Pie
While this pie is a treat, sweet potatoes offer several health benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, which supports eye health, and vitamin C, which boosts immunity.
- High in Fiber: The fiber content in sweet potatoes aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
- Antioxidant Properties: 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: 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: Crispy, baked sweet potato fries that are a healthier alternative to traditional fries. Great as a snack or side dish.
Conclusion
Sweet potato pie for two is the perfect dessert for small gatherings or cozy nights in. With its creamy, spiced filling and flaky crust, it’s a mini version of the classic Southern dessert that’s just as delicious. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of sweet potato pie without the leftovers!