Southern Spiced Sweet Potato Pie

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
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Southern Spiced Sweet Potato Pie is a cozy, heartwarming dessert that brings the comforting flavors of the South straight to your table. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a simple family dinner, this pie is a delightful twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients for Southern Spiced Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potatoes are the star of this pie, offering natural sweetness and a creamy texture. Butter adds richness, while the combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar balances the sweetness with a hint of molasses flavor. The heavy cream ensures a silky filling, and eggs provide structure. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, while a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves infuses the pie with warm, spiced notes. A touch of salt rounds out the flavors, and orange zest and juice offer a citrusy brightness. Finally, the unbaked pie crust serves as the perfect base for holding all these delicious ingredients together.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a potato masher for a smooth texture, or a blender for an ultra-silky finish.
  • To avoid a soggy bottom, brush the pie crust with egg white before adding the filling.
  • For a deeper flavor, consider roasting the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them.

Serving Suggestions

This pie pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a southern flair, try serving it with a side of pecan praline sauce. A warm cup of spiced chai or a glass of cold milk can also complement its flavors wonderfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes, but be sure to drain them well and reduce the sugars slightly, as canned varieties often contain added sweeteners.
How should I store the pie?
Store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pie can be made a day in advance and kept chilled until ready to serve.

Southern Spiced Sweet Potato Pie Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, take your peeled and cubed sweet potatoes and place them in a large pot of boiling water. Cook them until they’re fork-tender, which usually takes about 20 minutes. Once they're soft, drain the water and let them cool slightly.

Next, grab a mixing bowl and mash the sweet potatoes until they’re smooth. Add in the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar, mixing it all together until you have a cohesive, sweet blend.

Incorporate the heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract by mixing them thoroughly into your sweet potato mixture. This will make the filling creamy and smooth.

Now, sprinkle in the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Stir the spices through the mixture until they’re well distributed. Don't forget to fold in the orange zest and juice for that extra hint of freshness.

Pour this luscious filling into your unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly. Pop the pie into your preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool on a wire rack before diving in.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The perfect blend of spices gives it a warming kick.
  • Hints of orange bring a refreshing twist.
  • Easy-to-follow steps for bakers of all levels.
  • A great make-ahead dessert for special occasions.

Ingredients

2 1/2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
3 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp orange zest
1 tbsp orange juice
1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, boil sweet potatoes until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, mash sweet potatoes until smooth.
4. Mix in melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
5. Add heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix thoroughly.
6. Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
7. Fold in orange zest and orange juice.
8. Pour mixture into the unbaked pie crust and spread evenly.
9. Bake in preheated oven for 55-60 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let the pie cool on a wire rack before serving.

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