Name: Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes (roasted and mashed); 0.5 cup granulated sugar; 0.5 cup light brown sugar; 0.5 cup unsalted butter (melted) 2 large eggs; 0.5 cup evaporated milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust

There are pies that whisper comfort, and then there are pies that sing it. Southern Sweet Potato Pie is the kind that does both, echoing tradition with every smooth, creamy bite. Rich with warm spices and earthy sweet potatoes, this dessert is a hallmark of Southern hospitality and a staple on holiday tables across generations.

The magic of this pie lies in its simplicity. No fancy tricks or flashy ingredients—just wholesome roots, a hint of spice, and a buttery crust. It embodies the essence of homemade dessert, satisfying both nostalgia and sweet cravings in one slice. Whether it’s served at Thanksgiving or as a weekend treat, it’s guaranteed to bring a little Southern charm to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Sweet Potato Pie

This pie is a celebration of real flavor. Unlike overly sugary store-bought versions, it strikes the perfect balance between natural sweetness and warm spice. It’s creamy but not too dense, lightly spiced but not overpowering. Even better, it can be made ahead of time and enjoyed cold or warm, with or without toppings. It’s the kind of dessert that becomes a family tradition with just one bake.

What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, go for fresh orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like Beauregard or Jewel varieties. These types are naturally sweet and mash up beautifully without being stringy. Roasting them rather than boiling brings out their natural sugars and gives your pie an even richer flavor. Canned sweet potatoes can work in a pinch, but nothing beats the depth of flavor from roasting your own.

Ingredients for the Southern Sweet Potato Pie

This pie starts with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, which together make something truly special.

Sweet potatoes bring the rich, earthy flavor that anchors the whole pie. Roasted until soft and caramelized, they offer a deep sweetness.

Granulated sugar adds just enough sweetness to enhance the natural flavor of the potatoes.

Brown sugar deepens the flavor with a touch of molasses warmth.

Butter lends creaminess and richness that makes the filling smooth and satisfying.

Evaporated milk gives the pie its silky texture without making it too wet.

Eggs act as the binder, helping the filling set properly while keeping it light.

Ground cinnamon and nutmeg bring that unmistakable warm spice that tastes like fall in every bite.

Vanilla extract adds depth and brings all the flavors together.

Unbaked pie crust provides a buttery, flaky base that supports the soft filling.

How To Make the Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Start by roasting your sweet potatoes whole in the oven at 400°F until tender, about 45-50 minutes. This step intensifies their flavor and gives you the creamiest texture.

Step 2: Mash and Mix the Filling

Once cooled, peel the sweet potatoes and mash until smooth. In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes with the sugars, melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk until completely smooth and lump-free.

Step 3: Fill and Bake

Pour the filling into your unbaked pie crust. Smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set and a knife comes out mostly clean. Let it cool to room temperature before slicing.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the pie to cool completely. Chill in the fridge for at least two hours for the best slicing texture. Serve as is, or add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Serving and Storing This Southern Favorite

Southern Sweet Potato Pie is best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled, making it a convenient dessert for entertaining. It serves 8 hungry dessert lovers easily. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge for up to four days. Just wrap it well or cover it in an airtight container. Leftovers? A quick warm-up in the microwave makes it feel fresh all over again.

What to Serve With Southern Sweet Potato Pie?

Whipped Cream

A generous dollop of homemade whipped cream adds an airy contrast to the dense filling.

Candied Pecans

Top with chopped candied pecans for a nutty crunch and extra Southern flair.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Cold and creamy ice cream makes a delightful contrast to the warm spices in the pie.

Caramel Drizzle

A little caramel sauce takes it over the top, especially when serving guests.

Hot Coffee or Latte

The subtle bitterness of coffee balances out the sweetness perfectly.

Apple Cider

For a cozy fall pairing, serve with warm spiced apple cider.

Bourbon Glaze

Brush a thin glaze of bourbon and brown sugar on top for a grown-up twist.

Want More Pie Ideas?

If Southern Sweet Potato Pie makes your dessert heart happy, check out these other delicious pie and pastry ideas:

• Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler for a bubbly, golden summer favorite.

• Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) if you love sweet simplicity on a budget.

• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes that marry pie and cheesecake in the cutest way.

• Ooey Gooey Bars for a rich bar dessert that’s just as comforting.

• Fried Pineapple with Coconut Crust if you like your pies a little tropical.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a bourbon twist? Or keep it classic with whipped cream? Share your tweaks and tips—I love hearing how you make it your own.

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