If you’re looking to bring a touch of Southern comfort to your dessert table, this Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie is just the ticket. With its silky texture and warm spices, it’s a delightful alternative to the classic pumpkin pie, and perfect for any holiday feast or cozy gathering.
The heart of this pie is, of course, the sweet potatoes. They bring natural sweetness and a velvety base for the filling. Butter adds richness, while a mix of granulated sugar and brown sugar provides the right level of sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor. Whole milk gives a creamy consistency to the filling. We use eggs to set the pie, ensuring it holds its shape. A touch of vanilla extract enhances all the flavors, and the quartet of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves brings that warm, cozy scent and taste. And of course, a pre-made 9-inch pie crust serves as the crispy vessel for this delightful filling.
This sweet potato pie shines brightest when served with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a little extra indulgence, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top. Pair it with a cup of spiced tea or mulled wine to accentuate its warm flavors.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives you just the right amount of time to prep everything before it’s ready to go in. Start by peeling and cubing your sweet potatoes. You’ll want to boil them in a large pot of water until they’re fork-tender, which typically takes about 20 minutes. Once they’re done, drain them well and give them a good mash until they’re smooth.
Now, in a large bowl, combine your mashed sweet potatoes with the softened butter. Add in both the granulated and brown sugars, and stir until everything is nicely blended. Pour in the milk, crack in the eggs, and add the vanilla extract. Sprinkle in the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Give it all a good mix until the filling is creamy and all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Grab your pre-made pie crust and pour the sweet potato mixture into it, smoothing out the top with a spatula to make sure it's even. Slide the pie into your preheated oven and let it bake for 55 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the pie cool on a wire rack before serving. This cooling time is crucial to let the filling set properly.