Classic Southern sweet potato pie recipe with creamy spiced filling and buttery pie crust. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a comforting homemade dessert.
Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet Potato Pie is a traditional Southern dessert with a smooth, spiced sweet potato filling baked in a buttery pie crust. It is sweet, creamy, and perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any time you crave a comforting dessert.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Crust
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into small cubes)
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3–5 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling
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2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes (about 2–3 medium sweet potatoes)
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup brown sugar (packed)
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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¼ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
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2 large eggs
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½ cup milk
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¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
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In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
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Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together.
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Form the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
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Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
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Place it in a 9-inch pie pan and trim the edges.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling
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Peel and boil the sweet potatoes until soft (about 20 minutes).
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Drain and mash until smooth.
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In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
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Stir in eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared pie crust.
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Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
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Place the pie in the preheated oven.
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Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
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If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
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Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 1–2 hours to set fully.
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Serve as is or with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Tips for Best Results
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Use naturally sweet, firm sweet potatoes for the best flavor.
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For a smoother filling, mash the potatoes thoroughly or use a food processor.
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Let the pie cool completely before slicing to prevent the filling from collapsing.
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You can add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warm flavor.