Sweet Potato Pie
If you’re looking for a dessert that will impress your family and friends this Thanksgiving, look no further than this delightful Sweet Potato Pie! This recipe has been passed down through my family, and every bite brings back warm memories of laughter and joy. The combination of dark brown sugar and fragrant spices creates a cozy flavor that perfectly captures the essence of fall.
Not only is this pie a star at holiday gatherings, but it’s also perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to treat yourself to something special. Whether you’re hosting a big feast or just craving a slice of nostalgia, this Sweet Potato Pie is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect even for beginner bakers.
- Family-friendly appeal: Kids love the sweet and spiced flavor, so everyone can enjoy a slice!
- Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the pie a day in advance, giving you more time to spend with loved ones.
- Deliciously comforting: The rich flavors will remind you of home and create unforgettable memories around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this delicious Sweet Potato Pie! With everything from fresh sweet potatoes to aromatic spices, you’ll find these items easy to find and fun to work with.
For the Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups (300 g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1 teaspoon (6 g) table salt
- 2 tablespoons (25 g) sugar
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter (cold, 2 sticks)
- 1/4 cup (60 g) ice water (more as needed)
- 1/4 cup (60 g) white grape juice (cold)
For the Sweet Potato Filling
- 1 lb sweet potatoes (about 2 medium)
- 5 tablespoons (70 g) unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 1 cup (200 g) dark brown sugar (packed)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon cloves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cup (310 g) evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) vanilla extract
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
To Serve
- whipped cream
Variations
This Sweet Potato Pie recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize it:
- Add chocolate: Mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an indulgent twist on the classic flavor.
- Spice it up: Experiment with additional spices like cardamom or allspice for an extra kick.
- Nutty topping: Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts on top before serving for added crunch.
- Creamy alternative: Swap out half of the evaporated milk for coconut cream for a tropical vibe.
How to Make Sweet Potato Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing the flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Adding ice water gradually helps bring it together into a dough. It’s important not to overwork it; we want our crust flaky! Once combined, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and chop your sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them until tender—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Cooking them well ensures that they mash smoothly and blend nicely into your filling.
Step 3: Make the Filling
Drain your cooked sweet potatoes and mash them until smooth. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes with softened butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, spices, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Mixing these ingredients together creates that creamy texture we all love!
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your chilled pie crust on a floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Place it into your pie dish and trim any excess edges. Pour in your sweet potato filling evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Bake your pie for about 90 minutes or until set in the center. It’s essential not to rush this step; allowing it time to bake gives it that perfect consistency.
Step 6: Serve with Whipped Cream
Once cooled slightly, slice up your pie and serve with generous dollops of whipped cream on top. Enjoy every bite with family and friends—it’s bound to be a hit!
Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Pie
Creating the perfect sweet potato pie can be a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can elevate your baking game.
- Use fresh sweet potatoes – Fresh sweet potatoes provide rich flavor and a creamy texture that canned options may lack. Roast them until tender for the best results.
- Chill your pie crust – A chilled crust prevents shrinking and helps achieve a flaky texture. Don’t rush this step; it makes all the difference!
- Don’t skip the spices – The warm spices in this pie create a comforting aroma and enhance the overall flavor. Feel free to adjust them to suit your taste preferences.
- Check for doneness – To ensure your pie is perfectly cooked, insert a knife into the center. It should come out clean when the pie is done.
- Let it cool properly – Allowing your pie to cool completely before slicing helps it set up nicely, making serving easier and more enjoyable.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Pie
Presenting your homemade sweet potato pie can turn an ordinary dessert into an extraordinary one. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this festive treat!
Garnishes
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch, balancing the sweetness of the pie.
- Toasted Pecans: Sprinkling toasted pecans on top provides a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Side Dishes
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce pairs wonderfully with sweet potato pie, cutting through its richness while adding vibrant color to your plate.
- Green Bean Casserole: This classic side dish offers a savory contrast to the sweetness of the pie, with its creamy sauce and crispy onion topping enhancing any holiday meal.
- Cornbread: Warm cornbread brings a subtly sweet and crumbly texture that harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of sweet potato pie.
With these tips and serving suggestions, your sweet potato pie will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any Thanksgiving table! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage
This sweet potato pie is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious dessert without the last-minute rush. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it properly to keep that delightful flavor intact.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
- Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove any plastic wrap and cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making sweet potato pie.
What makes this Sweet Potato Pie special?
This Sweet Potato Pie stands out due to its rich flavor profile created by dark brown sugar and warm spices. The creamy filling paired with a flaky crust makes it a comforting and nostalgic dessert that everyone will love during the holidays.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes for Sweet Potato Pie?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes as a convenient alternative! Just ensure to drain them well before mashing, and adjust the sugar based on their sweetness level.
How do I know when my Sweet Potato Pie is done baking?
The Sweet Potato Pie is done when the center is set but slightly jiggly. It will continue to firm up as it cools. A toothpick inserted into the filling should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Can I make this Sweet Potato Pie dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the evaporated milk with coconut milk or any plant-based milk of your choice. For butter, you can use a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making this sweet potato pie as much as I do! It’s such a wonderful addition to any gathering, bringing warmth and joy with every slice. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or just a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, get baking, and savor the delightful flavors of this classic dessert! Happy baking!

Sweet Potato Pie
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the warmth of fall with this delightful Sweet Potato Pie, a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Bursting with the rich flavors of dark brown sugar and aromatic spices, this pie serves as a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings and joyful celebrations. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or simply looking to enjoy a cozy treat on a weeknight, this easy-to-make recipe will impress your guests and create lasting memories. With a flaky homemade crust enveloping a creamy sweet potato filling, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon table salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1/4 cup ice water (more as needed)
- 1/4 cup cold white grape juice
- 1 lb sweet potatoes (about 2 medium)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 1 cup dark brown sugar (packed)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon cloves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the crust by mixing flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Add ice water and white grape juice to form dough. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Boil chopped sweet potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth.
- In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes with butter, dark brown sugar, eggs, spices, salt, evaporated milk, and vanilla; mix until creamy.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out chilled crust and fit into a pie dish. Pour in the filling.
- Bake for about 90 minutes or until set; cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg