Directions
Now, let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious pie:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a pot of water until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes and softened butter. Mix well. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined. Gradually stir in the milk, then add the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the sweet potato mixture into the unbaked pie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If the crust starts to brown too much, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This helps the filling to set properly.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this Sweet Potato Pie, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Large pot
- Potato masher or electric mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- 9-inch pie dish
- Aluminum foil (optional, for covering crust edges)
- Wire rack for cooling
Tips and Variations
- Shortcut for Sweet Potatoes: If you’re short on time, you can use canned sweet potatoes. Just be sure to drain and mash them well.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Some people love adding a pinch of cloves or allspice for an extra kick.
- Healthier Option: Substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor and a bit of natural sweetness.
- Crust Options: If you’re gluten-free, use a gluten-free pie crust. You can also experiment with a graham cracker or gingersnap crust for a different texture and flavor.
- Toppings: Top your pie with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added decadence.
Storing Leftovers
Sweet Potato Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. If you want to enjoy the pie warm, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.
Perfect Pairings
Pair your Sweet Potato Pie with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a festive touch, serve it with a glass of spiced cider or a dollop of cinnamon-infused whipped cream. This pie also pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a simple roasted chicken, making it a versatile addition to any meal.