Name: Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: PT-489220H5M33S
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust; 1-2/3 cups sugar; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Pinch salt; 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 1/4 cup light corn syrup; 3/4 cup evaporated milk; Whipped cream, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 62 reviews

There is something truly soulful about the Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe, a classic dessert that perfectly captures the warmth and comfort of Southern hospitality. This pie, with its luscious, creamy filling infused with just the right amount of sweetness and spice, nestled in a flaky crust, is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, this pie will make any occasion feel special, inviting smiles and second helpings around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two slices of orange pie with a golden brown crust and a smooth, slightly glossy filling. Each slice is on a white plate with decorative edges, one in the foreground with a silver fork on the right side and the other in the background. The pie filling looks dense and moist, with a textured top layer that adds a bit of crispiness. Behind the front slice is a clear glass cup filled with black coffee, and to the left is a small clear bowl with white sugar cubes. The setting is on a white marbled surface with a folded white and green napkin under the front plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe relies on simple, straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully to create a rich, velvety pie filling. Each component plays an essential role—sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness and creamy texture, spices add a hint of warmth, and the pie crust provides the perfect buttery foundation.

Refrigerated pie crust: A convenient base that bakes up flaky and golden, saving you prep time.
Sugar (1-2/3 cups): Sweetens the filling just right without overpowering the natural flavors.
All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Helps thicken the filling for the perfect custard-like consistency.
Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, warm spice that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
Salt (a pinch): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Mashed sweet potatoes (1 cup): The star ingredient for creamy texture and signature flavor.
Eggs (2 large): Bind everything together, giving the pie structure and richness.
Butter, softened (1/2 cup): Infuses the filling with lush, silky smoothness.
Light corn syrup (1/4 cup): Adds moistness and a glossy finish to the pie filling.
Evaporated milk (3/4 cup): Provides a creamy depth without watering down the pie.
Whipped cream (optional): A lovely garnish to crown each slice for added indulgence.

How to Make Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to get it ready for baking. Unroll your refrigerated pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, making sure it fits snugly. Go ahead and flute the edges for a charming, homemade touch. Once shaped, chill the crust back in the fridge until you’re ready to pour in the filling. This chilling step is key for a crust that stays crisp and flaky after baking.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, nutmeg, and salt to evenly distribute the spices and thickeners. In a separate larger bowl, beat your mashed sweet potatoes with the eggs, softened butter, and light corn syrup until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Slowly whisk the dry ingredients into the sweet potato mixture, then gradually add the evaporated milk. Give the batter one last good stir to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom or sides of the bowl. This careful mixing helps ensure an ultra-smooth filling.

Step 3: Bake and Cool the Pie

Pour the luscious filling into your chilled pie crust and smooth it out evenly. Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 55 to 60 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Cooling is crucial here—set the pie on a wire rack until it reaches room temperature, then pop it into the fridge for at least three hours. The chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly, making every slice simply irresistible.

How to Serve Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

The image shows a golden brown pie in a white dish, with five slices visible, one missing. The crust is thick and wavy, with a lightly toasted edge. Two slices of pie are on two small white plates with textured edges, placed on a white marbled surface. The pie filling looks smooth and slightly shiny, with a warm orange color. A glass bowl with white whipped cream is near the pie, and a woman's hand holding a fork rests on a folded cloth napkin with green trim beside the plates. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top is a classic way to serve your Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe. You can also sprinkle a little ground cinnamon or a few toasted pecans for added texture and warmth that beautifully complement the pie’s rich flavor.

Side Dishes

This pie shines brightly after a hearty Southern meal. Serve it alongside coffee or hot tea for a comforting finish, or pair with vanilla ice cream to balance the warm spices and creamy filling with a cool contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate the presentation, try serving mini versions of the Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe in individual tart pans. Another fun idea is creating pie parfaits by layering pie filling with crushed gingersnap cookies and whipped cream in glasses, turning a traditional dessert into a modern treat everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or cover with foil and store in the refrigerator. It tastes fantastic for up to four days, retaining its creamy texture and wonderful flavors.

Freezing

You can freeze your Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe by wrapping it securely with plastic wrap and foil after it has completely cooled. Freeze for up to two months. To thaw, move it to the refrigerator overnight to maintain its texture and taste.

Reheating

To enjoy warm pie, reheat slices in the oven at 325°F for 10 to 15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may make the crust soggy, which no one wants.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?

Absolutely! A homemade crust adds a nice personal touch and can be just as flaky and delicious. Just make sure to chill it well before filling to keep the crust crisp.

What type of sweet potatoes should I use?

Use orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for the best flavor and color. They mash up nicely and bring the classic sweetness that defines Southern sweet potato pie.

Is there a substitute for light corn syrup?

Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup as a natural alternative, but it might slightly change the texture and flavor. Light corn syrup helps create that glossy finish and smooth filling.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Definitely! Use a gluten-free pie crust and make sure your flour substitute (like rice or almond flour) is appropriate for baking. Adjustments might be needed to get the same filling texture.

How long can I leave the pie at room temperature?

It’s best not to leave the pie out for more than two hours, especially because it contains dairy and eggs. After that, refrigerate to keep it safe and fresh.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a timeless Southern favorite to your dessert rotation, the Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe is a must-try. Its beautiful balance of sweetness, spice, and creamy texture will warm your heart and satisfy any sweet tooth. I can’t wait for you to make it and share those smiles as everyone dives in for seconds!

Southern Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need