Grandma’s Sweet Potato Pie

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Ingredients:

  • 1 (1 pound) sweet potato (about 2 medium)
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup evaporated milk (or whole milk for a lighter taste)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato

  1. Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and pierce them with a fork.
  2. Boil in a pot of water for 35–40 minutes, or until soft when pierced with a knife. (You can also bake at 400°F/200°C for 1 hour.)
  3. Let cool slightly, peel off the skin, and mash until smooth.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the mashed sweet potato and butter until creamy.
  2. Add sugar, milk, eggs, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt.
  3. Mix with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and lump-free.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

  1. Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust.
  2. Spread evenly with a spatula.
  3. Optionally, sprinkle a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon on top.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Let cool for at least 30 minutes before serving so it firms up.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  • A drizzle of caramel sauce makes it extra indulgent.
  • Sprinkle with chopped pecans for crunch.

Benefits of Sweet Potato Pie

  • Nutrient-Rich: Sweet potatoes are high in fiber, Vitamin A, and antioxidants.
  • Comforting Flavor: Nutmeg and cinnamon bring warmth and coziness.
  • Family Tradition: A classic Southern dessert often passed down through generations.
  • Versatile Dessert: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinners.

Methods Used

  • Boiling/Baking: To soften and enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
  • Blending/Whisking: Ensures a creamy, lump-free texture.
  • Baking: Gives the pie its custard-like structure with a golden crust.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Sweet Potato Pie is more than just a dessert — it’s a slice of tradition, love, and warmth. With its silky texture, comforting spices, and buttery crust, it brings families together around the table. Whether served at a holiday feast or as a cozy treat on a cool evening, this pie is a reminder that the simplest recipes often carry the richest memories.

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