Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet Potato Pie Recipe - A Flavorful Celebration Dish from America

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 8

Introduction

Sweet Potato Pie is a classic dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This delicious pie is made with a creamy filling of mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, spices, and butter, all baked in a flaky pie crust. It is a comforting and satisfying dessert that is sure to please any crowd.

History

Sweet Potato Pie has been a popular dessert in the United States for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the southern states, where sweet potatoes are a staple crop. The pie has its roots in African American cuisine, where sweet potatoes were often used in desserts due to their natural sweetness and availability. Over the years, Sweet Potato Pie has become a beloved dessert across the country, enjoyed by people of all backgrounds.

Ingredients

1.5 cups of cooked, mashed sweet potatoes
1 egg
1 cup of sugar
0.5 tsp of nutmeg
0.5 lb (227 g) of butter
0.5 tsp of ground cinnamon
1 cup of evaporated milk

How to prepare

Combine all the ingredients.
Beat until they are light and fluffy.
Pour the mixture into an 8-inch unbaked pie shell and bake at 350°F (177°C) until a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Variations

You can add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for added crunch.
For a twist on the classic recipe, you can add a splash of bourbon or rum to the filling.
You can also top the pie with a streusel topping made with flour, sugar, and butter for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the sweet potatoes until they are very soft before mashing them. This will ensure a smooth and creamy filling.

- For a richer flavor, you can use brown sugar instead of white sugar in the filling.

- To prevent the crust from burning, you can cover the edges with foil halfway through baking.

- Let the pie cool completely before serving to allow the filling to set.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Potato Pie is best served warm or at room temperature. You can top it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. It pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to bake the pie in a preheated oven to ensure even cooking.

- Check the pie halfway through baking to make sure the crust is not burning. You can cover the edges with foil if needed.

- Let the pie cool completely before serving to allow the filling to set.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh sweet potatoes for convenience.

- If you don't have evaporated milk, you can use regular milk or cream as a substitute.

- You can use margarine or vegetable oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version of the pie.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make the filling for Sweet Potato Pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you are ready to bake the pie, simply pour the filling into the pie crust and bake as directed.

Presentation Ideas

You can garnish the pie with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a decorative touch. You can also arrange slices of fresh fruit or berries around the pie for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Sweet Potato Pie pairs well with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, milk, or a glass of dessert wine. It also goes well with savory dishes like roasted turkey or ham.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

You can store leftover Sweet Potato Pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for 30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Sweet Potato Pie typically contains around 300-400 calories, depending on the recipe and serving size.

Carbohydrates

Sweet Potato Pie is a carbohydrate-rich dessert, with the main source of carbs coming from the sweet potatoes and sugar in the filling. One serving of Sweet Potato Pie typically contains around 40-50 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The main source of fat in Sweet Potato Pie comes from the butter used in the filling. One serving of Sweet Potato Pie can contain around 20-30 grams of fat, depending on the recipe.

Proteins

Sweet Potato Pie is not a significant source of protein, as the main ingredients are sweet potatoes, sugar, and butter. One serving of Sweet Potato Pie typically contains around 2-4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Sweet Potato Pie is a good source of vitamin A, thanks to the sweet potatoes. One serving of Sweet Potato Pie can provide around 200-300% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A. Sweet potatoes are also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

Alergens

Sweet Potato Pie may contain allergens such as eggs, milk, and wheat (in the pie crust). Be sure to check the ingredients and inform your guests if they have any allergies.

Summary

Sweet Potato Pie is a delicious dessert that is rich in carbohydrates and fats, with a good amount of vitamin A and other nutrients. It is a comforting and satisfying treat that is perfect for special occasions.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I was at a church potluck with my family. I had never tried sweet potato pie before, but as soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I approached the woman who had brought the pie and asked her for the recipe. She smiled warmly and told me that it had been passed down in her family for generations. She graciously shared the ingredients and instructions with me, and from that day on, sweet potato pie became a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this pie countless times, experimenting with different variations and techniques. I have added my own special touches to the recipe, making it truly my own. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that church potluck and the kind woman who shared her family recipe with me.

The key to a delicious sweet potato pie is, of course, the sweet potatoes themselves. I always make sure to use the freshest, ripest sweet potatoes I can find. I peel them and boil them until they are soft and mashable, then I add just the right amount of sugar, butter, and spices to enhance their natural sweetness.

I also make my own pie crust from scratch, using a combination of flour, butter, and a pinch of salt. I roll out the dough and carefully place it in a pie dish, then fill it with the sweet potato mixture. The pie bakes in the oven until it is golden brown and set, filling the kitchen with a warm, comforting aroma.

One of the things I love most about making sweet potato pie is sharing it with others. Whether it's a holiday gathering, a church event, or just a simple dinner with family and friends, I always make sure to bring a freshly baked pie to share. The smiles and compliments I receive make all the time and effort I put into making the pie worth it.

I have also passed the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, just as it was passed down to me. I love seeing them recreate the pie in their own kitchens, adding their own unique twists and flavors. It warms my heart to know that this recipe will continue to be a part of our family for generations to come.

As I sit here now, reflecting on all the memories and moments that have revolved around this beloved recipe, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the woman who first shared it with me, for the joy it brings to those who taste it, and for the knowledge that it will continue to be a cherished tradition in our family for years to come.

Sweet potato pie may just be a simple dessert, but to me, it is so much more. It is a symbol of love, of tradition, and of the joy that comes from sharing a delicious homemade treat with those you care about. And for that, I will always be grateful.