There’s something really magical about the first bite of a Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pie. I remember the first time I tasted one at my grandmother’s house in Georgia, our family gathered around the table celebrating Thanksgiving. The sweet aroma wafted through the air, making my stomach grumble in anticipation. Watching my grandma whip up her famous pie with the care and love that only a grandmother can provide is a memory I cherish. Her secret ingredient? A whole lot of love and a pinch of cinnamon!
Sweet potato pie is truly a Southern treasure, combining the natural sweetness of the potatoes with warm spices. It’s like autumn on a plate! Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or just because it’s Thursday, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
What’s in Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pie?
Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show! Sweet potatoes bring a rich and creamy texture to the pie, along with a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with spices. I always recommend choosing fresh sweet potatoes for that earthy flavor, but canned works in a pinch!
Spices: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sometimes a hint of ginger elevates the pie’s flavor. You can even add a splash of vanilla extract for an extra layer of warmth.
Sweetener: Most recipes use a combination of sugar and brown sugar. The brown sugar adds a hint of molasses flavor, which is to die for!
Butter: Butter adds depth and richness to the filling, making every bite feel indulgent. I find that unsalted butter works best, allowing you to control the salt levels.
Eggs: These bind the filling together and provides a wonderful texture. Make sure they’re at room temperature for the smoothest mix!
Pie Crust: You can either use a homemade or store-bought pie crust; either way, it’s the perfect vessel for that luscious filling. If I’m feeling adventurous, I love to make my own with a touch of spices in the dough.
Is Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pie Good for You?
Well, let’s be honest, this pie is definitely a treat, and like all desserts, moderation is key!
Sweet Potatoes: On the health forefront, sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. They can help with your vision and immune system, so hey, let’s call that a win!
Butter and Sugar: Now, while the butter and sugar are essential for flavor, they do add calories and fat. If you’re looking to lighten it up, feel free to swap some of the butter for unsweetened applesauce, and reduce the sugar slightly.
Overall, this pie is delightful, but I’d recommend enjoying it as an occasional treat rather than a staple!
Ingredients
– 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 2 cups of mashed)
– 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
– 1 unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
This recipe will serve about 8 people.
How to Make Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pie?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil or bake the sweet potatoes until they are soft. If you’re boiling, peel them before cooking to simplify things. Then, mash them until smooth. You’ll need about 2 cups of mashed sweet potato.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until everything is well incorporated and smooth. You can use an electric mixer or a good old-fashioned whisk—whatever you have on hand!
4. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be a lovely golden brown.
6. Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. Trust me, letting it chill is worth the wait!
The Sweet Potato Pie Magic
– Feel free to add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for that extra indulgent touch.
– You can get creative with your spices; try adding a bit of allspice or cloves for a unique twist.
– If you want to make this a little healthier, substitutes like coconut oil for butter and a sugar substitute can also work.
I hope you love this Classic Southern Sweet Potato Pie as much as I do! There’s just something about it that brings comfort and joy. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! If you have any childhood memories tied to this recipe, I’d love to hear about them. Happy baking!
