American dessert fans look forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays for this classic American treat, made of sweet Potato filling flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla before being placed inside a pie crust and baked until firm.

Why Is Sweet Potato Pie Revered? 

Sweet potato pies have long been celebrated due to their cultural significance within African-American communities where sweet potatoes play an integral role in cuisine and celebrations, as well as within southern states where sweet potatoes are considered staple food sources.

Here’s an easy method of making Sweet Potato Pie: 

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
• 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

• Prep the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). 
• Combine sweet potato cubes in a large pot with enough water to cover, and bring up to a boil over high heat before reducing to low and simmering until tender – usually 10-15 minutes.
• Return the sweet potatoes to their pot; combine butter, sugar, milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and vanilla extract before mashing until smooth. 
• Pour this sweet potato filling into an unbaked pie crust and bake for 50-60 minutes, until the filling has set and the crust has become golden brown.
• Allow the pie to cool completely before cutting and serving it in slices. 

Tips

• For added depth of flavor, roast sweet potatoes instead of boiling them simply preheat your oven to 400 F (200 C), pierce each sweet potato with a fork, place on a baking sheet and roast for 45-60 minutes until tender enough for peeling and mashing before letting cool before proceeding with this recipe.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, puree the sweet potatoes before combining with other ingredients.
• Prepare to ensure your pie crust won’t end up soggy by pre-baking it before filling. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), pricking its base with a fork before baking for 10-15 minutes or until set.
• If the pie crust begins to brown too rapidly, use foil or a pie shield to cover its edges. 

Variations

• For an added spicy-sweet boost, mix 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger with 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves into your filling for a truly unforgettable sweet potato pie experience.
• Substituting 1/2 cup of the sugar for 1/2 cup of maple syrup for an alternative sweet potato pie filling option. 
• For extra chocolatey flair, why not add half a cup of melted chocolate chips for extra chocolatiness?
• Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the filling for an impressive Pecan Sweet Potato Pie before pouring it into a pie crust. 
• Or try creating an impressive Sweet Potato Cheesecake Pie option by layering cheesecake atop of sweet potato filling before baking – both methods will surely impress guests and friends alike.

Serving Suggestions

For help when serving these delectable desserts, see Serving Suggestions below:

• Sweet potato pie is an irresistibly satisfying treat that’s great for either warm or room temperature consumption. 
• From daily dessert to breakfast.
• Brunch in your daily regimen.

Storage Tips

By following these helpful storage tips you can easily store this delectable treat year-round:

• Sweet potato pie may be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days 
• Before placing in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 15-20 minutes in order to retain heat evenly throughout.
• Sweet potato pie can be frozen up to three months ahead and stored in an airtight freezer bag, then placed into the fridge overnight to defrost. For optimal results, tightly wrap each layer in aluminum or plastic wrap before placing them into an airtight freezer-safe bag for storage and freezing.

Related Recipes

Salted Caramel Pie: A Quick and Easy Recipe

Conclusion

Sweet potato pie is an irresistibly delightful treat that never disappoints, making an easy dessert recipe even for novice bakers. By following some guidelines and tweaks you can find your ideal sweet potato pie recipe.

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