Sweet Potato Pie: A Southern Classic

Last updated on January 23rd, 2025

This beloved Southern dessert has been gracing holiday tables and family gatherings for generations, and for good reason. Over time, this humble dessert became a cherished part of Southern cuisine, often rivaling pumpkin pie in popularity during the holiday season.

The Perfect Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

This sweet potato pie is creamy, perfectly spiced, and oh-so-satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

Optional

• 1 cup marshmallow fluff for topping

How to Make

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes, eggs, milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
4. Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes.
5. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Optional: Before serving, spread some marshmallow fluff over the top of the cooled pie and lightly toast it with a kitchen torch or under the broiler for a few minutes (watch it closely to prevent burning).

Extra Tips

• Choose the right sweet potatoes. Look for deep orange, firm sweet potatoes without any soft spots or blemishes.
• Instead of boiling, why not try roasting your sweet potatoes? This concentrates their flavor and reduces moisture.
• For an ultra-smooth filling, use a food processor or immersion blender to purée the sweet potatoes.
• Don’t overwork the filling. Mix the ingredients just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks.
• Protect the crust. Use a pie shield or aluminum foil to cover the edges of your crust if it’s browning too quickly.
• Your pie is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
• Sweet potato pie actually tastes better the next day, so feel free to bake it in advance.

A Slice of Southern Hospitality

Sweet potato pie has earned its reputation as a beloved classic. It’s clear that this dessert is so much more than just a seasonal treat. Here is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special, and a dish that carries with it the warmth of tradition and family gatherings.

Each bite is a harmonious blend of creamy filling, warm spices, and buttery crust. When you’re craving a dessert that’s both comforting and impressive, give this sweet potato pie a try!

Print