The Best Sweet Potato Pie Recipe for Holiday Feasts

There's something uniquely comforting about the rich, sweet taste of sweet potato pie, especially during the holiday season. Its vibrant color and heartwarming flavors make it a beloved dessert, capturing the essence of cozy, festive gatherings. Whether you're a seasoned pie maker or a beginner looking to impress at your next holiday feast, this best sweet potato pie recipe will guide you through the steps to create a dessert that'll become the centerpiece of your holiday table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into the art of pie-making, let’s assemble our ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs or 680 grams)
• ¹⁄₂ cup of softened unsalted butter
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup of evaporated milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon of ground ginger
• Pinch of salt
• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust, homemade or store-bought

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

Start by selecting the sweetest and most flavorful sweet potatoes available:

• Wash: Scrub the potatoes under running water to remove any dirt.
• Pierce: Pierce them several times with a fork to allow steam to escape while cooking.
• Cook: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 45-60 minutes or until tender. Alternatively, you can microwave them on high for about 10-15 minutes.
• Cool: Allow the potatoes to cool completely before peeling.
• Mash: Peel the sweet potatoes, then mash them until smooth. You need about 2 cups of mashed sweet potato.

Making the Filling

With your sweet potatoes ready, let’s move on to crafting the perfect pie filling:

1. Cream: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
3. Incorporate Flavor: Mix in the vanilla extract, spices, and a pinch of salt.
4. Add Potatoes and Milk: Gradually beat in the mashed sweet potatoes, then slowly add the evaporated milk until the mixture is well combined and smooth.

Baking the Pie

Now that your filling is ready, it’s time to bake:

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Prepare Crust: Pour the filling into your unbaked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
• Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
• Cool: Let the pie cool completely before serving. It will continue to set as it cools.

📝 Note: Be sure to check the pie after about 40 minutes to see if the crust edges are browning too quickly. If so, tent with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the pie continues to bake.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some tips to make your sweet potato pie the highlight of your holiday meal:

• Serve chilled or at room temperature.
• Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added touch of indulgence.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, or even caramelized pecans, for extra flair.
• A light drizzle of caramel or bourbon sauce can elevate the pie’s flavor profile.

🍽️ Note: Sweet potato pie is best when allowed to rest for at least a few hours, or even overnight, to set properly before slicing. This ensures a firm, sliceable pie that doesn't ooze when cut.

Storing and Freezing

To enjoy your pie later or make it in advance:

• Store leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

In summary, making a sweet potato pie involves selecting the right sweet potatoes, mashing them to a smooth consistency, creating a flavorful filling, and baking with care. The key points are to avoid overmixing, ensure the pie is fully set before slicing, and to consider its storage for future enjoyment. This recipe, with its perfect balance of spices and sweetness, promises to be the highlight of your holiday feast, offering warmth and comfort in every bite.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?

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Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes, but make sure to drain and mash them well. Keep in mind that fresh sweet potatoes often offer a richer flavor and texture.

How do I know when the sweet potato pie is done baking?

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The pie is done when the center is set and a toothpick inserted into it comes out clean. The edges might look puffed, but the center should have a slight jiggle.

Can sweet potato pie be frozen?

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Yes, sweet potato pie can be frozen. Wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.