Sweet Potato & Maple Nut Pie is the perfect blend of cozy sweetness and nutty crunch. This pie captures the essence of fall with its warm spices and rich flavors, making it an ideal dessert for any holiday table or cozy afternoon gathering.
Sweet potatoes are the star of this pie, providing natural sweetness and a creamy texture. Butter adds richness and helps to carry the flavor of the spices. Granulated sugar and maple syrup sweeten the pie, with the syrup adding depth and a hint of caramel. Whole milk ensures the filling is smooth and creamy. Eggs help set the filling, while vanilla extract rounds out the flavors. Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and spice. The pre-made pie crust is a convenient base, and the pecans mixed with brown sugar and melted butter create a delightful, crunchy topping.
This pie pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a touch of elegance, drizzle a bit of extra maple syrup on top just before serving. Itβs an excellent companion to a hot cup of spiced chai or a glass of cold milk.
Start by preheating your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). While the oven warms up, you can focus on preparing the sweet potatoes. You have the option to bake or boil them until they're tender, which should take about 45 minutes. Baking will give them a slightly richer flavor, but boiling is quicker.
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, let them cool just enough to handle. Then, peel away the skins and mash them thoroughly in a large bowl. You want them smooth and lump-free for the best pie texture.
Add the softened butter to the mashed sweet potatoes, followed by the granulated sugar, maple syrup, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix everything together until it's smooth and well combined. This is your delicious pie filling.
Pour this sweet potato mixture into your pre-made pie crust, spreading it evenly. In a small separate bowl, stir together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the pie filling β it will bake into a crunchy, sweet topping.
Place your pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You'll know it's done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the pie cool completely before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to set.