Name: Irresistibly Cozy Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe to Savor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 3 medium Sweet Potatoes (Bake for best texture.); 1/2 cup Butter (Substitute with margarine for dairy-free.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Can use brown sugar for deeper flavor.); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for best results.); 2 large Eggs (Substitute with flax egg for vegan.); 1/2 cup Milk (Whole or Evaporated) (Evaporated milk preferred.); 1 unbaked Pie Crust (Store-bought or homemade.); 1 cup Whipped Cream (For extra creaminess.); 1/2 cup Marshmallow Fluff (Adds a sweet, fluffy contrast.); 2 scoops Ice Cream (Vanilla ice cream pairs well.)

After a long day, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a Southern Sweet Potato Pie wafting through the kitchen. This beloved dessert has graced family tables for generations, becoming an essential staple during Thanksgiving and autumn gatherings. As the golden leaves begin to fall, the idea of indulging in a slice of this creamy, rich pie filled with natural sweet potato goodness feels like a warm hug from the past.

One of the best parts? This Southern Sweet Potato Pie recipe is as simple as it is delightful. With just a handful of humble ingredients, you can create a dessert that impresses both family and friends, ensuring it earns a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Whether you stick to the classic version or opt for the brown sugar variation to deepen the flavors, this pie embodies the essence of homemade comfort. Get ready to discover why this timeless treat is a true crowd-pleaser!

Why is this Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe special?

Comforting Aroma: After a long day, the smell of this pie fills your home with warmth and nostalgia.
Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few kitchen staples, it’s accessible for everyone, even beginner bakers.
Rich Flavor: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes paired with warm spices creates a taste that feels luxurious.
Versatile Options: Enjoy the classic recipe or switch it up with the brown sugar variation for a new spin.
Crowd-Pleaser: This pie is perfect for gatherings—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance to save time during busy holiday festivities, ensuring stress-free celebrations.

Southern Sweet Potato Pie Ingredients

For the Filling

Sweet Potatoes – Provides natural sweetness and creaminess; bake them for the best texture.
Butter – Adds richness to the pie; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; can be replaced with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the pie’s sweetness; use pure vanilla for the best results.
Eggs – Binds the filling, ensuring a smooth texture; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan version.
Milk (Whole or Evaporated) – Adds creaminess; evaporated milk is preferred for a richer flavor.

For the Crust

Unbaked Pie Crust – Serves as the base structure for the filling; both store-bought or homemade can work.

Optional Toppings

Whipped Cream – Perfect for adding lightness and creaminess on top of the pie.
Marshmallow Fluff – Adds a sweet, fluffy contrast that pairs beautifully with the pie’s richness.
Ice Cream – Vanilla ice cream makes for a delightful à la mode treat alongside your Southern Sweet Potato Pie.

How to Make Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Bake Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400º F. Thoroughly clean and prick the sweet potatoes with a fork, then bake for 45-50 minutes until they are tender all the way through. Let them cool, then peel and mash them for your filling.
Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with softened butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, milk, and eggs. Blend everything together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Fill Crust: Gently pour the sweet potato filling into your unbaked pie crust, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. This will create a beautiful, even pie.
Bake Pie: Adjust your oven temperature to 350º F and bake the pie for about 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and a little jiggle is left in the filling.
Cool & Serve: Once baked, let the pie cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. It can be served warm or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream for that extra comfort!

Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Fridge: Store your Southern Sweet Potato Pie in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled pie in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This way, it can be stored for up to 3 months while maintaining its flavor and texture.

Reheating: To reheat, defrost the pie in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in a preheated oven at 350º F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Slice & Store: If you’ve already sliced the pie, place individual slices in a covered container to keep them fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Southern Sweet Potato Pie Variations

Embrace your creativity! There are countless ways to customize this delicious pie, enticing your taste buds with new flavors.

Brown Sugar Swap: Replace 1 cup of granulated sugar with 3/4 cup of brown sugar for a richer, deeper sweetness.
Purple Sweet Potatoes: Use vibrant purple sweet potatoes instead. This not only elevates the color but also adds a fun, unique flavor twist.
Vegan Delight: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and coconut milk for a heartwarming vegan version that everyone will love.
Spice It Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for cozy warmth that dances on your palate.
Nutty Variation: Stir in 1/2 cup of toasted pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and added richness in every bite.
Ginger Zing: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger for a zesty surprise that brightens the flavors beautifully.
Chocolate Twist: Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise that pairs unexpectedly well with the creamy filling.
Coconut Creaminess: Top your pie with a fluffy layer of coconut whipped cream instead of regular whipped cream for an exotic flair.

What to Serve with Southern Sweet Potato Pie?

As you savor each bite of this delightful dessert, consider rounding out your meal with complementary dishes that elevate the experience.

Crispy Fried Chicken: The savory, crispy exterior of fried chicken adds a delightful contrast to the creamy sweet potato filling, creating a satisfying balance.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and fluffy, these mashed potatoes enhance the comforting vibe of the meal while providing a silky texture alongside every slice.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pie, adding a vibrant, nutritious element.
Collard Greens: These tender greens bring a hint of bitterness that cuts through the richness of the pie, making each bite feel fresh and vibrant.
Homemade Macaroni and Cheese: A side of creamy mac and cheese brings a roundness to your meal that is nostalgic and utterly satisfying.
Apple Cider: A chilled glass of apple cider, its crisp sweetness echoing the flavors of the pie, makes a refreshing drink to enjoy with dessert.
Pecan Pie: Serve alongside for a dual dessert experience; the nutty crunch of pecan pie complements the velvety texture of sweet potato pie beautifully.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This warm, seasonal beverage can be the perfect cozy finish to your meal, echoing the flavors within the Southern Sweet Potato Pie.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Top your pie with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a luxurious touch that melts into the warm filling for pure bliss.

Make Ahead Options

These Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe steps are perfectly suited for meal prep, ensuring your holiday gatherings are stress-free! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance—simply mash the sweet potatoes and combine them with the remaining ingredients (butter, sugar, vanilla, milk, and eggs) as instructed. Refrigerate the filling in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. The unbaked pie can also be assembled 1 day ahead; just cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in a preheated oven—this helps the pie cook evenly while delivering that beloved creamy texture. Enjoy the delightful aroma of homemade pie with minimal last-minute fuss!

Expert Tips for Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Baking Method: Always bake your sweet potatoes instead of boiling them. This ensures a creamier texture in your Southern Sweet Potato Pie recipe.
Cool Time: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing; this prevents messy cuts and enhances the presentation of each slice.
Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling. These warm spices elevate the pie’s flavors beautifully.
Storage Tips: If making ahead, store your baked pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for 3 months without losing its delightful taste.
Perfect Crust: Ensure your pie crust is fully cooled before adding the filling. A warm crust can create steam and affect the pie’s texture.

Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right sweet potatoes for this recipe?
For the best flavor and texture, look for firm sweet potatoes without any dark spots or blemishes. Opt for medium-sized ones, as they typically have a higher sugar content. Baking them brings out their natural sweetness, so make sure to avoid boiling if you want a creamier filling!

How should I store my Southern Sweet Potato Pie?
Store your pie in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and preserves the creamy texture, making it as delicious as the day it was made.

Can I freeze my Southern Sweet Potato Pie?
Absolutely! Ensure the pie has cooled completely before freezing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for extra protection. This will keep it safe in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350º F oven for about 15-20 minutes.

What can I do if my pie filling is too runny?
If you find that your filling is too runny, it might be due to over-mixing or too much liquid added. Try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour to thicken it before pouring the mixture into the crust. If it’s too late, bake the pie an extra 10-15 minutes, checking for firmness.

Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes! To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use coconut milk instead of regular milk. Additionally, margarine can be used for a dairy-free option without compromising on taste.

How can I tell when the pie is done baking?
You’ll know your Southern Sweet Potato Pie is perfectly baked when the center is mostly set but has a slight jiggle. It should not look liquid but should have a slight bounce when jiggled gently. If the crust edges begin to brown too much, cover them with foil to prevent burning while the center finishes baking.