Ingredients
Ingredients are the core of any recipe, and Sweet Potato Pie is no exception. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 large sweet potato (about 2 cups mashed) - Use fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp lemon extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie shell
🌿 Note: Fresh sweet potatoes provide a richer flavor than canned ones.
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potato
Start by boiling or roasting your sweet potato. Here's how:
- Boil the sweet potato in a pot of water until it's tender enough for a fork to pierce through effortlessly. This typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
- Or, wrap in foil and bake at 350°F for 1 hour until soft.
🍠 Note: Roasting can enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potato.
Step 2: Peel and Mash
Once cooked, let the sweet potato cool, then peel off the skin. Mash the potato until smooth. You should have about 2 cups of mashed sweet potato.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
Now comes the fun part of making the pie filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar and melted butter, then stir in beaten eggs.
- Add the mashed sweet potato, evaporated milk, extracts, and spices. Mix well until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the pie shell.
Step 4: Baking the Pie
Bake the pie:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the filled pie shell on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips.
- Bake for about 55 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden.
🥧 Note: A slight jiggle in the center is okay as the pie will continue to cook as it cools.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet potato pie can be served in various ways:
- Warm or Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool, or serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream.
- Toppings: Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or even some toasted pecans for extra crunch.
This traditional Southern dessert is best enjoyed during the holidays or as a delightful comfort food anytime.
Variations
If you want to mix things up, consider:
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of allspice or clove for a spicier flavor profile.
- Sweet Potato Cheesecake: Combine your mashed sweet potato with cream cheese to make a sweet potato cheesecake filling.
- Vegan Sweet Potato Pie: Use plant-based substitutes for eggs and butter.
In summary, Sweet Potato Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a heritage, a comfort, and a celebration of flavor. By following Robbie Montgomery’s recipe, you’re engaging with a tradition that’s sweet, creamy, and rich in every sense. Whether you choose to stick to the classic recipe or explore creative variations, this pie is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients are combined with love and care.
What’s the difference between a sweet potato and a yam?
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In the context of recipes, sweet potatoes and yams are often confused. Sweet potatoes come in various colors and have a sweeter, creamier texture. Yams, on the other hand, are starchier, drier, and have an earthy flavor. Most recipes, including this one, call for sweet potatoes.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
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Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes, but the texture and flavor might not be as rich as using fresh ones. If you’re using canned, make sure to drain any syrup they come in and mash them well before incorporating them into the recipe.
How do I store sweet potato pie?
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Store your sweet potato pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It can last up to 4-5 days. To serve, you can warm it up in a low oven or eat it cold.
