Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Southern Sweet Potato Pie (Long, Detailed Version)

Smooth, silky, and full of warm spices, this Southern Sweet Potato Pie is one of the most beloved comfort desserts in American kitchens. With its creamy texture, buttery crust, and nostalgic flavor, it’s the kind of pie that reminds you of family gatherings, cozy evenings, and holidays spent around the table. If you’ve never made it from scratch, this recipe will show you just how simple — and delicious — it can be.

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked 9-inch (23 cm) pie crust
• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120 ml) evaporated milk
• ¼ cup (60 g) melted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

For the smoothest and richest flavor, always start with freshly cooked sweet potatoes—not canned.
You can cook them in one of three ways:

• Boil: Peel, chop, and boil until soft.
• Bake: Roast whole sweet potatoes at 400°F (200°C) until tender—this gives the sweetest flavor.
• Steam: A good option if you want to keep their natural moisture.

Once cooked, mash them until creamy and measure out 2 cups.

2. Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• mashed sweet potatoes
• sugar
• melted butter
• eggs
• vanilla
• cinnamon
• nutmeg
• salt

Mix until completely smooth—no lumps.
Then slowly stir in the evaporated milk until the filling becomes silky and pourable.

3. Fill the Pie Crust

Pour the mixture into your unbaked pie crust.
Use a spatula to smooth the surface so it bakes evenly.

4. Bake

Place the pie in a preheated oven:

• Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
• Bake Time: 50–55 minutes

You’ll know it’s ready when:

• the center is set
• the edges puff slightly
• a knife inserted near the center comes out clean

5. Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool completely—this helps it firm up and slice beautifully.
Serve it as-is or top with a big spoonful of whipped cream for an extra creamy finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic southern flavor
• Smooth, velvety filling
• Simple ingredients
• Perfect for holidays, weekends, or sharing online