Sweet Potato Pie Recipe – A Southern Classic You’ll Crave Year-Round
There’s something magical about the aroma of Sweet Potato Pie wafting through the kitchen — it’s warm, spiced, nostalgic, and comforting all at once. Whether you’re preparing it for the holidays, a Sunday dinner, or just because, this pie delivers that perfect balance of earthy sweetness, creamy texture, and a buttery crust that melts in your mouth.
Forget store-bought. This homemade version is the real deal — rich in flavor, ridiculously easy to make, and made with wholesome ingredients. It’s no surprise this pie is a staple on Southern tables — one bite, and you’ll understand why it’s so loved.
Ingredients & Why They Matter
✅ 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large)
→ The star ingredient — naturally sweet and packed with fiber, beta-carotene, and creaminess. Roasting them brings out their full flavor.
✅ ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
→ Adds richness and helps create that silky-smooth filling.
✅ ¾ cup granulated sugar
→ Sweetens the pie without overpowering the natural flavor of the sweet potatoes.
✅ ¼ cup brown sugar
→ Adds a deep, molasses-like warmth and richness.
✅ ½ cup whole milk (or evaporated milk)
→ Ensures a creamy, custard-like filling. Evaporated milk gives a slightly thicker texture.
✅ 2 large eggs
→ Binds the filling and gives it structure. Essential for that smooth, sliceable pie.
✅ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Adds warmth and enhances all the flavors.
✅ 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
→ A classic pie spice that pairs perfectly with sweet potatoes.
✅ ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
→ Just enough to give it that distinct holiday aroma.
✅ ¼ teaspoon salt
→ Balances sweetness and brings out flavor depth.
✅ 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
→ Use homemade or store-bought. For best results, blind bake it slightly to prevent sogginess.
How to Make Sweet Potato Pie (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
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Wash and peel 2 large sweet potatoes.
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Boil or roast until fork-tender (roasting intensifies the flavor).
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Mash until completely smooth — no lumps!
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 3: Make the Filling
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In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, both sugars, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
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Mix until smooth using a hand mixer or whisk. Don’t overmix.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
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Pour the filling into your unbaked pie crust.
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Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake
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Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly.
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A knife inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.
Step 6: Cool & Chill
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Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing for clean cuts.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
✔️ Naturally sweet, creamy, and full of flavor
✔️ Perfect make-ahead dessert
✔️ Uses real ingredients – no shortcuts
✔️ Customizable with your favorite spices or toppings
✔️ A family favorite that works for holidays or everyday treats
Pro Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Pie
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Roast instead of boil your sweet potatoes for deeper flavor.
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Use a food processor to ensure an ultra-smooth filling.
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Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or bourbon for an adult twist.
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Blind bake your pie crust for 8–10 minutes to prevent sogginess.
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Cover crust edges with foil if they brown too quickly during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pie:
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Chilled or room temperature
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With a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
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Drizzled with a touch of caramel sauce or sprinkled with toasted pecans
Perfect for:
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Thanksgiving
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Christmas dinner
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Sunday brunch
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Or any day you need a slice of comfort
Final Thoughts: The Best Homemade Sweet Potato Pie
This homemade Sweet Potato Pie is everything you want in a dessert — rich, comforting, flavorful, and simple to make. It’s a true Southern tradition with a timeless appeal that everyone falls in love with. Make it once, and it’ll become a treasured part of your family’s dessert table for years to come.
📌 Save this recipe and share it with your favorite dessert lovers. Because nothing says “home” like a slice of sweet potato pie.