Sweet Potato Pie

Description:

Sweet Potato Pie is a classic Southern dessert made with creamy sweet potatoes, warm spices, and a buttery pie crust. This comforting and flavorful treat is a holiday favorite, often served as an alternative to pumpkin pie. Its smooth, custard-like filling and delightful sweetness make it a must-have on any dessert table.

Origin:

Sweet Potato Pie has roots in Southern U.S. cuisine, influenced by African-American traditions and adaptations of European pies. It became a staple in African-American households during the holiday season, celebrating the rich flavors of sweet potatoes, a key crop in the South.

Ingredients (Serves 8):

For the Filling:

• Sweet potatoes: 2 large (about 1 lb or 450 g)
• Unsalted butter: ½ cup (1 stick or 115 g), melted
• Granulated sugar: ½ cup (100 g)
• Brown sugar: ¼ cup (50 g)
• Evaporated milk: ½ cup (120 ml)
• Eggs: 2 large
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
• Ground nutmeg: ½ tsp
• Salt: ¼ tsp

For the Crust:

• Store-bought or homemade pie crust: Enough for a 9-inch pie

Optional Ingredients:

• Maple syrup: 1 tbsp (for added sweetness)
• Ground ginger: ¼ tsp (for extra spice)
• Whipped cream or pecans: For topping

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Boil or Bake: Boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot of water for 30-40 minutes until tender, or bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes until soft.
2. Peel and Mash: Once cooled, peel the sweet potatoes and mash them in a bowl until smooth.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. Use a hand mixer for an extra smooth texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Prepare the Crust: Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess and crimp the edges.
2. Add Filling: Pour the sweet potato mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Success:

• Smooth Filling: For the smoothest texture, use a food processor or hand mixer to blend the filling.
• Prevent Soggy Crust: Blind bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling if desired.
• Spice It Up: Adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste, or add a pinch of cloves for extra warmth.

Recommendations:

• Serving: Serve chilled, at room temperature, or slightly warmed. Top with whipped cream or toasted pecans for a delightful finish.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.

Nutrition (Per Slice):

• Calories: ~290
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 13 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Sugar: 24 g
• Fiber: 2 g

Sweet Potato Pie is the perfect blend of comfort and nostalgia, bringing a warm, homey touch to any occasion. It’s a dessert that’s sure to win hearts and make memories!