Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet Potato Pie is a cornerstone of Southern cuisine, revered for its rich, creamy texture and warm, spiced flavor. This dessert blends the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a harmonious mix of spices, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust. It’s a festive favorite, especially popular during the holiday season, but it’s also a comforting choice any time of year.

Ingredients Overview

Sweet Potatoes

• Why This Ingredient? Sweet potatoes are the star of the pie, providing a naturally sweet flavor and smooth texture.
• Health Benefits: Rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins, sweet potatoes promote vision health, aid digestion, and boost immunity.

Condensed Milk

• Why This Ingredient? Condensed milk adds richness and creamy consistency to the filling, enhancing its luxurious texture.
• Health Benefits: It offers calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle function.

Eggs

• Why This Ingredient? Eggs help to bind the filling, giving it a custard-like consistency that sets perfectly when baked.
• Health Benefits: Eggs are a great source of protein and contain essential vitamins and minerals.

Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger)

• Why This Ingredient? A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger infuses the pie with warm, inviting flavors that are synonymous with comfort food.
• Health Benefits: These spices are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion.

Pie Crust

• Why This Ingredient? The pie crust serves as a delicious vessel for the filling, adding a buttery crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Health Benefits: When made with whole grains, it can provide additional fiber.

Substitutions

For those with specific dietary needs or preferences, here are some adaptable options:

• Sweet Potatoes: Butternut squash or pumpkin can be excellent substitutes.
• Condensed Milk: For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk or almond milk sweetened condensed versions are available.
• Pie Crust: A gluten-free or grain-free pie crust can be used to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Recipe

Yield: One 9-inch pie

Ingredients with Measurements

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 unbaked pie crust

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes with sweetened condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Fill Pie Crust: Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-55 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
5. Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the filling to set completely.

Nutrition

Each slice of Sweet Potato Pie contains approximately:

• Calories: 280
• Carbs: 40g
• Fats: 10g
• Protein: 5g

Storage Instructions

Sweet Potato Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavor and tradition. Its creamy, spiced filling and flaky crust make it a beloved choice for family gatherings and holiday feasts alike. Try making this classic pie to bring a taste of Southern hospitality to your table.

FAQ

1. Can I make Sweet Potato Pie ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance and refrigerate.
2. How do I know when the pie is done baking? The pie is done when the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles.