Why You’ll Love this Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
When you take a bite of this Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie, you’ll instantly understand why it’s a beloved classic. The creamy filling, with its perfect balance of sweetness and spice, warms your heart.
Each slice brings back memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. The flaky crust complements the rich, velvety texture, making every bite a delight.
Plus, the meringue on top adds a lightness that contrasts beautifully with the filling. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a tradition that connects generations.
Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be hooked and enthusiastic to share the love.
Ingredients of Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie
When you think about making a classic dessert that brings everyone together, Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie is hard to beat. The ingredients come together to create a sweet, spiced filling wrapped in a flaky crust, topped with a fluffy meringue. It’s like giving your taste buds a warm hug.
Plus, it’s a great excuse to whip out your mixing bowl and channel your inner baker, even if you’re just trying to impress that one friend who always brings dessert to the potluck. So, let’s explore the ingredients you’ll need to create this nostalgic treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked peeled sweet potatoes
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1-2 tablespoons bourbon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup milk
- 1 (9 inch) pie crust
- 3 egg whites
Now, let’s talk about a few things to keep in mind when gathering your ingredients. First off, the sweet potatoes are the star of the show; make sure they’re nice and tender.
You can either boil or bake them, but whatever you do, don’t skimp on the cooking time—nobody likes a hard potato pie. And when it comes to the spices, feel free to adjust them to your taste; perhaps you love a little extra cinnamon or a hint of nutmeg.
Oh, and if you’re feeling fancy, that bourbon can really elevate the flavor. Just remember, a little goes a long way.
How to Make Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie
Making Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie is like stepping into a warm, nostalgic embrace, and trust me, it’s easier than you might think. First things first, preheat your oven to a cozy 350 degrees. While that lovely heat is building up, grab your 2 cups of cooked peeled sweet potatoes. If you’re wondering how to get those potatoes just right, boiling them until they’re fork-tender works like a charm.
Now, in a mixing bowl, combine those sweet potatoes with 1 1/4 cups of sugar and 1/4 cup of melted butter. The aroma that wafts through your kitchen at this point? Pure magic. Toss in 2 eggs, a teaspoon of vanilla extract (or, if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of bourbon), and 1/4 teaspoon each of salt, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger. Mix it all up until you have a smooth, creamy filling that will make you want to dive right in with a spoon.
Once your filling is ready, it’s time to add 1 cup of milk, which gives it that extra richness. Blend everything together until it’s all combined, and then pour this delightful mixture into your prepared (and hopefully thawed) 9-inch pie crust.
Now, pop that pie into the oven and let it bake for about 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it, though; you want to see a knife come out clean when you poke it in the center. When it’s done, let it cool on a rack. Don’t rush this part; a warm pie is lovely, but a cool pie is perfect for the meringue topping that’s about to happen.
Speaking of meringue, let’s make that showstopper. Grab those 3 egg whites and whip them up until soft peaks form. It’s like working out for your arms, but much tastier. Gradually, add the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar, one tablespoon at a time, and keep beating until it’s glossy and stiff. This is where you can get creative with those peaks—go wild with them.
Spread the meringue over your cooled pie, making sure it touches the crust all around; this is key to avoiding weeping (and who wants a sad pie?). Sprinkle a pinch of granulated sugar on top and bake it for another 10 to 12 minutes until it’s beautifully browned.
And there you have it, folks: a pie that’s not just a dessert, but a heartfelt hug on a plate. Perfect for gatherings, or just because you deserve a slice of happiness.
Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie Substitutions & Variations
After mastering the classic Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie, you might want to switch things up a bit.
I love experimenting with variations! For a twist, try using pumpkin or butternut squash instead of sweet potatoes. You can also swap out the milk for coconut milk for a tropical flair.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dash of nutmeg or even some chocolate chips to the filling. For a healthier option, substitute maple syrup for sugar.
And don’t forget to play with the crust—try a graham cracker crust for a delightful change! The possibilities are endless!
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie
While enjoying a slice of Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie, I often think about what pairs perfectly with its rich, sweet flavor.
A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, creamy texture that complements the pie beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level, creating a delightful contrast.
I also love serving it alongside a warm cup of spiced chai or even a rich coffee; both drinks enhance the pie’s warmth.
For a festive touch, consider garnishing with toasted pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. Enjoy your slice!
Additional Tips & Notes
When enjoying my Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie, I always appreciate a few extra tips that can elevate the experience even further.
First, choose ripe sweet potatoes for the best flavor. If you want a richer taste, try adding a splash of bourbon to the filling.
For a perfect meringue, make certain your mixing bowl is clean and free of grease. Don’t skip the pinch of sugar on top; it adds a lovely caramelized touch.
Finally, let the pie cool completely before serving; it enhances the flavors and makes slicing easier.
Enjoy every bite, and share with loved ones!