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How to Make Classic Sweet Potato Pie:
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by preparing the pie crust if you’re making it from scratch. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut the cold butter into the flour using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter. Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Once chilled, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface and transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges. Place the prepared crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into cubes. Place them in a pot of water, bring to a boil, and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly. Once cooled, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth using a potato masher or fork. Measure out 2 cups of mashed sweet potatoes for the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and melted butter. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If you prefer a slightly thicker filling, you can add 1 tablespoon of flour to the mixture to help it set better when baking.
Step 4: Fill and Bake the Pie
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges of the crust are golden brown. You can check the pie by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the pie is done.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour before slicing. This allows the filling to set completely. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.
Why You’ll Love Classic Sweet Potato Pie:
- Rich, Flavorful Filling: The filling of this pie is silky smooth with just the right balance of sweetness and spice. The sweet potatoes lend a natural sweetness, while the combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger gives it that perfect, warming fall flavor.
- Perfect Texture: The filling is creamy and smooth, while the flaky crust adds a lovely contrast. Every bite is a perfect blend of textures and flavors.
- Made from Scratch: While you can certainly use store-bought ingredients for convenience, making the pie crust and filling from scratch elevates the dish and ensures the freshest, most flavorful result.
- Great for Any Occasion: This sweet potato pie is perfect for the holidays, but it’s also a wonderful treat for any time of year. It makes a great dessert for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in.
- Customizable: If you like a bit more spice, feel free to adjust the cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to your liking. Some people even add a pinch of cloves or allspice to enhance the flavor even more.
Serving Suggestions:
- Whipped Cream: Top your pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a creamy contrast that complements the rich filling.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve a slice of pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top of the pie before baking for an added touch of sweetness and flavor.
Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Pie:
- Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: If possible, opt for fresh, high-quality sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. Canned sweet potatoes can work in a pinch, but fresh is always preferred for this classic recipe.
- Don’t Overmix the Filling: When preparing the sweet potato filling, mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can cause the pie to become overly dense.
- Check the Pie: If the pie starts to get too brown around the edges but the filling isn’t set, cover the edges of the crust with aluminum foil and continue baking until the center is done.
- Let It Cool: Give the pie enough time to cool so the filling can set properly. This will help it hold its shape when you slice it.
The Takeaway:
This Classic Sweet Potato Pie is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves a warm, comforting treat with just the right balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re serving it during the holiday season or just because you’re in the mood for something delicious, this pie will quickly become a favorite in your home. With its creamy filling, flaky crust, and irresistible flavor, it’s a dessert that’s sure to make every occasion feel a little more special.
So, get baking and enjoy a slice (or two) of this classic Southern dessert—it’s a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints!
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