Sweet potato pie is more than just a dessert in the Southern United States—it’s a tradition passed down through generations. Every family has its own version, but the heart of the recipe remains the same: tender sweet potatoes, butter, sugar, warm spices, and a flaky crust. This recipe stays true to those roots while keeping the process simple enough for beginners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Smooth, creamy texture with no stringiness
Perfect balance of sweetness and spice
Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients
Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or weekend treats
Tastes even better the next day
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Filling
2 pounds sweet potatoes (about 2–3 medium)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
2 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup evaporated milk (or whole milk)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger (optional but recommended)
¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
For the Pie Crust
1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Step-by-Step
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by washing the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can cook them in one of three ways:
Boiling (Most Common Method):
Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into large chunks. Place them in a pot of cold, lightly salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
Baking (Best Flavor):
Bake whole sweet potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 45–60 minutes until very soft. Let them cool, then peel off the skins.
Microwaving (Fastest):
Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and microwave until soft, turning occasionally.
Once cooked, mash the sweet potatoes until completely smooth. For the creamiest texture, use a food processor or blender. You’ll need about 2 cups of mashed sweet potato.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes and melted butter. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, stirring until fully incorporated. The combination of white and brown sugar adds both sweetness and depth of flavor.
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps create a smooth, custard-like filling.
Pour in the evaporated milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves (if using), and salt. Mix until the filling is silky, creamy, and evenly spiced.
Taste the filling and adjust spices if needed—Southern sweet potato pie should be warmly spiced but never overpowering.
Step 3: Prepare the Pie Crust
Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges decoratively if desired. For best results, keep the crust chilled until ready to fill—this helps prevent shrinking during baking.
Pour the sweet potato filling into the crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the pie on the center rack and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set. The pie should jiggle slightly in the middle but not appear wet.
If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges loosely with aluminum foil.
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. The filling will continue to firm up as it cools.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet potato pie can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled—each option has its own charm.
Serve plain to enjoy the full flavor
Add a dollop of whipped cream
Pair with vanilla ice cream
Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon or nutmeg
This pie is rich, so small slices go a long way.
Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Pie
Use fresh sweet potatoes, not canned, for the best flavor and texture
Blend the filling well to avoid lumps or stringiness
Don’t overbake—overbaking can cause cracks
Let it cool fully before slicing for clean slices
Make it a day ahead—the flavor improves overnight
Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions
Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months
Reheating: Warm slices gently in the oven or microwave
Sweet potato pie is an excellent make-ahead dessert for holidays and special events.
Final Thoughts
This easy and delicious sweet potato pie recipe is a true Southern classic that never goes out of style. With its creamy texture, warm spices, and buttery crust, it’s the kind of dessert that creates memories around the table. Whether you’re making it for the first time or continuing a family tradition, this pie is guaranteed to impress your guests and keep them coming back for seconds.