Instructions
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Cut in Butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Water: Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form it into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes
- Boil or Roast: You can either peel and boil the sweet potatoes until tender (about 20-30 minutes) or roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes until soft. Let them cool slightly, then mash until smooth.
3. Make the Filling
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well blended.
- Add Eggs and Milk: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the evaporated milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Carefully transfer the crust to the pie pan and trim the excess dough. Crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Pre-bake (Optional): For a flakier crust, you can pre-bake the crust for about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Fill and Bake the Pie
- Add Filling: Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared crust, smoothing it out evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The pie will slightly puff up during baking and may crack on top.
6. Cool and Serve
- Cool: Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the filling set properly.
- Serve: Slice and serve your sweet potato pie as is, or top with whipped cream for an extra treat.
Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Pie
- Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: For the best flavor, use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned. However, if you’re short on time, canned sweet potato puree can work as a substitute.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the filling before baking. Depending on your preference, you can adjust the sugar levels to suit your taste.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to experiment with spices! Add a pinch of ginger or allspice for a unique flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love Sweet Potato Pie
- Comforting Flavors: The warm spices and creamy filling create a cozy dessert perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
- Versatile Dessert: Sweet potato pie can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making it a flexible choice for any occasion.
- A Family Favorite: This pie has a way of bringing people together, making it a beloved dessert across generations.
Health Considerations
- Nutritious Ingredients: Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals, making this pie a slightly healthier dessert option.
- Moderation is Key: While delicious, sweet potato pie is still a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a tradition that evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and togetherness. With its smooth filling, flavorful spices, and buttery crust, this pie is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering, this sweet potato pie is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating this delicious Southern classic!
