This Classic Sweet Potato Pie is a timeless dessert that delivers smooth, velvety texture and warm spiced flavor in every bite. Made with tender sweet potatoes, brown sugar, butter, and cozy spices, this pie is baked in a flaky crust for a comforting dessert that feels like home.
Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving a nostalgic treat, this sweet potato pie is simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
- Home bakers looking for a traditional Southern dessert
- Holiday hosts preparing Thanksgiving or Christmas menus
- Anyone who prefers sweet potato pie over pumpkin pie
- Beginners wanting a foolproof pie recipe
- Families who love warm, spiced comfort desserts
Why It’s Great
- Creamy, smooth filling with no stringy texture
- Balanced sweetness using brown sugar
- Warm spices enhance the natural flavor of sweet potatoes
- Simple ingredients you likely already have
- Perfect make-ahead dessert for busy holidays
Ingredients
For the Pie
- 1 (9-inch) pie crust, store-bought or homemade
- 1.5 lbs sweet potatoes (about 2 medium)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot (for boiling sweet potatoes)
- Mixing bowls
- Potato masher or food processor
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch pie dish
- Oven
How to Make Sweet Potato Pie
Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and cut sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well and mash until completely smooth. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes and butter. Mix until creamy. Add brown sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla, spices, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie crust into the pie dish. Pour the sweet potato filling evenly into the crust.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted comes out mostly clean. The center should jiggle slightly but not be wet.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to help it set properly.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze fully cooled pie (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months
- Serving Tip: Bring to room temperature or warm slightly before serving
FAQ
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, but fresh sweet potatoes give the best flavor and texture.
Why is my pie watery?
Excess moisture usually comes from under-drained sweet potatoes. Always drain and mash thoroughly.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely. Sweet potato pie tastes even better the next day.
Is this better than pumpkin pie?
Many people prefer sweet potato pie because it’s naturally creamier and richer.
Conclusion
This Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pie is a true comfort dessert that never goes out of style. Smooth, flavorful, and perfectly spiced, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your collection for holidays and everyday indulgence alike.
