Sweet potato pie is a beloved dessert, and adding condensed milk to the filling takes it to a whole new level of creaminess and sweetness. Condensed milk not only enhances the texture but also adds a rich, caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the potatoes. This version of sweet potato pie is easy to make, incredibly indulgent, and sure to become a family favorite. Here’s everything you need to know to create this delicious dessert.
Why Use Condensed Milk in Sweet Potato Pie?
Condensed milk is a game-changer in sweet potato pie filling. It’s thick, sweet, and creamy, which helps create a smooth, velvety texture without the need for additional sugar or heavy cream. The result is a pie that’s rich, decadent, and perfectly balanced in flavor. Plus, it simplifies the recipe by reducing the number of ingredients needed.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Pie with Condensed Milk
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, dreamy pie:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2-3 medium sweet potatoes)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash, peel, and cut the sweet potatoes into chunks.
- Boil the sweet potato chunks in a pot of water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Measure out 2 cups of mashed sweet potatoes and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of mashed sweet potatoes and 1 can of sweetened condensed milk. Mix until smooth.
- Add the 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup melted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix until everything is well combined and the filling is creamy.
Step 3: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges as desired.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Pour the sweet potato filling into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 40-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
- Optionally, serve with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Pie with Condensed Milk
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Orange-fleshed varieties like Beauregard or Jewel are ideal for their natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Don’t Overmix the Filling: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in the pie as it bakes. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Blind Bake the Crust (Optional): For an extra flaky crust, you can blind bake it for 10 minutes before adding the filling. This prevents a soggy bottom.
- Let It Cool Completely: Sweet potato pie needs time to set. Allow it to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Creative Variations to Try
- Brown Sugar and Bourbon: Add 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon and replace the condensed milk with a mixture of condensed milk and brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Coconut Condensed Milk: Use coconut-flavored condensed milk for a tropical twist.
- Pecan Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the filling before baking for a crunchy contrast.
- Marshmallow Swirl: Add dollops of marshmallow fluff on top of the filling and swirl it in with a knife before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet potato pie with condensed milk is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with these serving ideas:
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- A drizzle of caramel or maple syrup.
- A dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon for a festive touch.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of sweet potatoes and condensed milk creates a filling that’s rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet. The spices add warmth and depth, while the buttery crust provides a flaky contrast. This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels, yet the results are impressive enough to wow your guests.
Conclusion
Sweet potato pie with condensed milk is a decadent twist on a classic dessert. Its creamy, velvety filling and warm, spiced flavor make it a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday feast or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this pie is sure to delight. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a dessert that’s as unforgettable as it is delicious. Enjoy! 🥧✨