Southern Sweet Potato Pie

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Silky, spiced, and sweet with a golden flaky crust, Southern Sweet Potato Pie is a beloved classic that deserves a permanent spot on your holiday dessert table—or any table, really. With a velvety filling made from roasted sweet potatoes and warm fall spices, this pie is a comforting, down-home treat that brings both tradition and flavor to every bite. One slice and you’ll understand why it’s such a staple in Southern kitchens.

This pie carries the kind of nostalgia that comes from generations of family gatherings. The rich texture of the sweet potato filling contrasts beautifully with the crisp crust, and a dollop of whipped cream on top adds the perfect creamy touch. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving or a quiet Sunday afternoon, Southern Sweet Potato Pie always satisfies.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create the perfect Southern Sweet Potato Pie, you’ll want to start with the right tools to ensure a smooth, rich filling and a well-baked crust:

• Mixing Bowls: A large bowl is essential for combining your sweet potato filling. Choose a deep one to prevent spills during mixing.
• Electric Mixer or Whisk: This helps achieve a silky consistency in the filling. A stand mixer or hand mixer saves time and ensures thorough blending.
• Potato Masher or Food Processor: These tools are crucial for getting the sweet potatoes perfectly smooth, which is key to that creamy texture.
• Pie Dish (9-inch): A standard pie dish helps bake the crust evenly and holds the right amount of filling.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is important for balancing the spices and sweetness.
• Spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of the bowl and smoothing the top of the filling before baking.
• Aluminum Foil or Pie Shield: Protects the crust edges from overbaking while the filling sets.

Each tool contributes to the pie’s overall success—from texture to flavor to presentation. So don’t skip the prep!

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Ingredients for the Southern Sweet Potato Pie

• Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show. Roasted and mashed, they give the pie its deep orange hue and naturally sweet flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Enhances the sweetness and helps balance the earthy tones of the sweet potatoes.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a layer of caramel-like richness and moisture to the filling.
• Unsalted Butter: Gives the filling richness and a silky mouthfeel.
• Evaporated Milk: Provides creamy texture without watering down the flavor, unlike regular milk.
• Eggs: They bind the ingredients and help the pie set into that perfect custard-like consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the spice blend.
• Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Allspice: These warm spices are essential to bring that cozy, Southern flavor to life.
• Salt: Just a pinch heightens the other flavors.
• Unbaked Pie Crust: A buttery, flaky crust acts as the base, holding all the goodness in one perfect slice.

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How To Make the Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pierce 2-3 medium sweet potatoes with a fork and roast them for 45-50 minutes until fork-tender. Let them cool slightly, peel off the skins, and mash the flesh until smooth.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, add 2 cups of mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla, and all spices. Use an electric mixer or whisk to blend everything into a smooth, creamy mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges. Pour the sweet potato filling into the crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. Top with whipped cream or serve plain.

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How to Serve and Store Southern Sweet Potato Pie

This pie is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature with a generous dollop of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. The sweet and spiced filling pairs beautifully with the cool creaminess on top. It’s a showstopper dessert for holidays but simple enough for a cozy weekend treat.

For storage, cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap the entire cooled pie (or individual slices) tightly in plastic and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned sweet potatoes (in water, not syrup) can work in a pinch. Just drain them well and mash until smooth. Fresh roasted sweet potatoes give better flavor and texture, though.

How do I know when the pie is fully baked?

The edges should be set and the center may have a slight jiggle, but not look wet. A toothpick or knife inserted about 1 inch from the center should come out clean.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely. This pie holds up well when made a day or two in advance. Store it in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Do I need to blind bake the crust?

No blind baking needed. The filling bakes slowly enough that the crust will cook through, especially if your oven is properly preheated.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can substitute coconut milk or almond milk for the evaporated milk, and use a plant-based butter alternative. Just know the flavor will change slightly.

Is it possible to reduce the sugar?

Yes. You can cut both sugars slightly and still maintain good flavor. Try reducing by 2-4 tablespoons total if you prefer a less sweet pie.

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Want More Pie Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re loving this Southern Sweet Potato Pie, here are a few other delicious pie and dessert recipes you might enjoy from Life With Olivia:

• Old-Fashioned Blackberry Cobbler Recipe for a fruity, rustic delight.
• Strawberry Crunch Pound Cake for a dessert with texture and nostalgia.
• Easy Texas Turtle Sheet Cake if you’re in the mood for chocolate and caramel richness.
• Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge when you want something quick and indulgent.
• Peanut Butter Texas Sheet Cake for a nutty, crowd-pleasing alternative.

Looking for even more comforting recipes like this one? Browse my Pinterest board where I share new dessert ideas daily: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with traditional spices or add your own twist? Maybe topped it with marshmallow fluff instead of whipped cream?

I love seeing your takes on these timeless recipes. Drop your questions too—we’re all here to help one another bake better.

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