Sweet Potato Pie

Step 2: Make the Pie Crust (If Using Homemade)

If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, skip to the next step. For a homemade crust, combine 1 ½ cups of flour and ½ teaspoon of salt in a large bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 4-6 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just begins to come together.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently into a ball. Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.

Once chilled, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Place the crust in the pie pan, trim any excess dough, and crimp the edges. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Filling

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until smooth and well-combined. Add the melted butter and mix again until the filling is creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure it’s level.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Place the pie on the center rack of the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set. To check for doneness, insert a knife or toothpick into the center of the pie. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the pie is ready. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This will help the filling set and make it easier to slice. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Pie

• Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Freshly cooked sweet potatoes create a smoother, creamier filling. If you use canned sweet potato puree, make sure it’s unsweetened and not overly processed for the best flavor.
• Avoid Overmixing: When making the filling, mix until everything is just combined. Overmixing can introduce too much air and result in a less smooth texture.
• Chill the Crust: If making homemade pie crust, be sure to chill it before baking. This helps the crust hold its shape and become flakier.
• Add a Touch of Bourbon: If you’re looking for an extra depth of flavor, try adding a tablespoon of bourbon to the filling for a warm, slightly caramelized taste.
• Test the Pie for Doneness: Be sure to test the center of the pie to ensure it is fully set before removing it from the oven. It should be firm and not jiggle when tapped.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

• Rich, Creamy Filling: The sweet potato filling is smooth, creamy, and perfectly spiced, creating the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The combination of sweet potatoes, spices, and a buttery pie crust makes for a well-balanced dessert that isn’t overly sweet but still satisfies your cravings.
• Versatile for Holidays and Special Occasions: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall gathering, sweet potato pie is a dessert that brings joy to the table.
• Easy to Make: While it’s a little more involved than a simple pie, the process of making sweet potato pie is straightforward and can be done in stages, making it easy to prepare ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

Sweet Potato Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a tradition, a symbol of comfort, and a perfect way to end a meal. With its creamy filling and spiced flavor profile, it offers a delightful twist on classic holiday desserts like pumpkin pie. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is an easy and delicious way to bring some warmth and sweetness to your table. So, grab your sweet potatoes and get baking—this Best Ever Sweet Potato Pie is sure to become a family favorite for years to come!