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+ servings

Soul Food Sweet Potato Pie

This rich and creamy sweet potato pie is a beloved soul food classic, passed down through generations.
With a smooth, spiced filling and a buttery crust, this pie embodies Southern comfort and tradition in every bite.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Cooling Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine Southern
Servings 8

Ingredients
  

  • 2 frozen deep-dish pie shells
  • 4 large sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup butter
  • ¼ cup half-and-half
  • ½ cup evaporated milk Carnation preferred
  • 1⅔ cups granulated sugar
  • 4 extra-large eggs
  • tbsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp key lime juice

Instructions
 

  • Preheat & Prepare – Set your oven to 375°F. Take the pie shells out of the freezer so they can slightly thaw.
  • Cook the Sweet Potatoes – Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Slice the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise and place them in the boiling water. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces the flesh.
  • Prepare the Filling – While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in the microwave. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, half-and-half, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Use a hand mixer to blend the ingredients.
  • Mash the Potatoes – Drain the sweet potatoes and allow them to cool slightly. Peel off the skins, being careful not to burn your fingers. Add the sweet potatoes to the bowl with the other ingredients and mix thoroughly using the hand mixer until smooth. Stir in the key lime juice.
  • Prepare the Pie Shells – Prick the bottom of each pie crust 4-5 times with a fork to allow steam to escape and prevent bubbling.
  • Fill & Bake – Pour the sweet potato mixture evenly into the pie shells. Place them on the middle oven rack and bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Cool & Serve – Remove from the oven and set the pies on a wire rack to cool for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy a slice of this classic soul food dessert!

Notes

  • For an even silkier texture, strain the sweet potato mixture before pouring it into the crust.
  • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
  • This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Keyword best sweet potato pie recipe, classic soul food dessert, Holiday dessert ideas, homemade sweet potato pie, soul food, Southern sweet potato pie, Thanksgiving pie recipe, traditional sweet potato pie
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