Grandma’s Sweet Potato Pi – A Comfort Dessert That Feels Like Home
If there’s one dessert that brings warm memories of cozy family gatherings, it’s Grandma’s Sweet Potato Pie. This southern classic combines creamy, spiced sweet potatoes with a flaky pie crust to create a dessert that’s both nostalgic and irresistibly delicious. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a Sunday dinner, this pie will make your kitchen smell like love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling
- 1 medium sweet potato (about 1 pound) – peeled and cubed
- 2 large eggs – at room temperature for a smoother mix
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – for that warm, aromatic flavor
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – pure, for the best taste
- 1 cup white sugar – balances the natural sweetness of the potatoes
- ½ cup condensed milk – makes the filling rich and creamy
- ½ cup butter, softened – adds decadence to every bite
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – gives a cozy, holiday vibe
For the Crust
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust – homemade or store-bought
Step-by-Step Directions 👩🍳
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato
- Peel and chop the sweet potato into chunks for faster cooking.
- Place them in a pot of boiling water and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Drain well, then mash until smooth. You can use a potato masher for a rustic texture or a food processor for a silky-smooth filling.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your filling is done.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, add the mashed sweet potato.
- Mix in butter while the potatoes are still warm so it melts in beautifully.
- Add sugar, eggs, condensed milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is creamy and lump-free.
💡 Pro Tip: Overmixing can make the filling dense, so just blend until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Place your unbaked pie crust on a baking sheet for easier handling.
- Pour the sweet potato filling into the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55–60 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- The filling will puff up slightly while baking but will settle as it cools.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Let the pie cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing. This allows the flavors to deepen and the filling to set.
- Serve as is, or top with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for extra indulgence.
Why This Recipe Works So Well 💡
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of them in your pantry.
- Perfect Balance: Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness, while spices add warmth and depth.
- Versatile: Works for holidays, family dinners, or even as a breakfast treat with coffee.
Tips & Variations 🔄
- Extra Creamy: Use evaporated milk instead of condensed for a lighter version.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans on top before baking for crunch.
- Spice Boost: Add a pinch of ginger for a bolder flavor profile.
Storage 📦
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Nutrition (Per Slice)
Approximate values for 1/8 of the pie:
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Carbs: 38g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 4g
This Grandma’s Sweet Potato Pie is more than just dessert – it’s a slice of tradition, a memory in every bite, and the perfect way to make any occasion feel special.