The Best Sweet Potato Pie Recipe with Sweetened Condensed Milk

Sweet potato pie holds a special place in the heart of Southern cuisine and beyond. This creamy, spiced dessert combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich, velvety texture of sweetened condensed milk to create a show-stopping treat. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any time you crave comfort food, this pie will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the secrets behind making the perfect sweet potato pie with sweetened condensed milk.

Why Sweetened Condensed Milk is a Game-Changer

Sweetened condensed milk is a powerful ingredient in baking. Its thick, sweet consistency not only eliminates the need for additional sugar but also adds creaminess that takes this pie to the next level. Unlike evaporated milk or heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk ensures your pie filling is smooth, luscious, and packed with flavor. It also works beautifully to enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, creating a perfect balance of richness and spice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the perfect sweet potato pie with sweetened condensed milk, gather the following ingredients:

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional, for added warmth)
  • A pinch of salt

For the Pie Crust:

  • 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust (or homemade, if you prefer)

Optional Toppings:

  • Whipped cream
  • Candied pecans
  • A sprinkle of ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sweet Potato Pie

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

Boil or Bake Sweet Potatoes: Start by washing and peeling the sweet potatoes. You can either boil them in a large pot of water until tender (about 20–25 minutes) or bake them at 400°F for 45–50 minutes until fork-tender. Baking intensifies the natural sweetness, but either method works well.
Mash the Potatoes: Once cooked, allow the sweet potatoes to cool slightly. Mash them until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. You can use a fork, potato masher, or even a food processor for a silky texture.

Making the Pie Filling

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Add the Spices: Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt. These spices will bring warmth and depth to the pie, complementing the sweetened condensed milk perfectly.

Assembling the Pie

Prepare the Crust: Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp or flute the edges for a decorative touch.
Fill the Crust: Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.

Baking the Pie

Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the pie for 45–50 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed around the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Cool Completely: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. This step allows the filling to set fully, ensuring a clean slice when served.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie with Sweetened Condensed Milk

This pie is delicious on its own, but a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of candied pecans can elevate it even further. For an extra touch, lightly dust the top with ground cinnamon before serving. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled for the best flavor.

Sweet Potato Pie with Sweetened Condensed Milk Tips

  • Make Ahead: Sweet potato pie is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
  • Freeze for Later: Want to save some for later? Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Adjust the Spices: Feel free to tweak the spice level to suit your taste. Add more cinnamon or nutmeg if you prefer a bolder flavor.
  • Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes. Overbaking can cause cracks in the filling, though it will still taste delicious!

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll absolutely love these other delicious treats:

These recipes pair beautifully with sweet potato pie, making them perfect for creating a complete dessert spread!

FAQs

What’s the difference between sweet potato pie and pumpkin pie?
Sweet potato pie has a richer, earthier flavor compared to pumpkin pie, which tends to be spicier and lighter in texture. Sweet potatoes also provide a natural sweetness that complements the condensed milk beautifully.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes or yams if you’re short on time. Be sure to drain them thoroughly and mash until smooth.

Do I need to blind-bake the pie crust?
Blind baking isn’t necessary for this recipe, as the filling bakes evenly with the crust. However, if you prefer an extra-crispy crust, you can pre-bake it for about 10 minutes before adding the filling.

How do I store leftover sweet potato pie?
Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or foil, for up to 4 days. Bring it to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.

What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
If you’re looking for an alternative, evaporated milk combined with 1/2 cup of sugar can work, though it won’t be as rich or sweet as the original recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg), use a vegan pie crust, and swap the sweetened condensed milk for a plant-based condensed milk option.

Conclusion

Sweet potato pie with sweetened condensed milk is a comforting, flavorful dessert that brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to any occasion. With its creamy texture, balanced spices, and rich sweetness, this pie is destined to become a beloved tradition in your household. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply because you’re craving something sweet, this recipe will never disappoint. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a dessert that everyone will rave about!

Suggestions for Inbound Links:

  • Link to a recipe for Homemade Pie Crust for those who want to make their own.
  • Internal link to Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas for more holiday inspiration.

Suggestions for Outbound Links:

  • Link to Sweet Potato – Wikipedia to explore the history, varieties, and nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes.
  • Link to a tutorial on How to Blind Bake a Pie Crust for readers who prefer a crispier crust.

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