There’s nothing quite like the smell of a warm Sweet Potato Pie filling the kitchen, especially during the holidays. It’s been a tradition in my family for as long as I can remember—the rich, creamy filling, the flaky crust, and that perfect blend of cinnamon and nutmeg that makes it feel like home. I’ve baked this pie more times than I can count, and over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make it absolutely foolproof. Whether you’re a pie-baking pro or a first-timer, this recipe is here to make your holiday table (or any day, really) extra special. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to dessert too.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Pie
This Sweet Potato Pie is the kind of dessert that makes people ask for seconds (and the recipe!). Here’s why it’s a keeper:
- Creamy dreamy filling: Silky smooth, with just the right amount of sweetness—no lumps, no grittiness, just perfection.
- Warm spice magic: Cinnamon and nutmeg dance together so well, you’ll swear this pie is giving you a hug.
- Easy as pie (really!): Mix, pour, bake—no fancy techniques, just straightforward, delicious results every time.
It’s the pie that tastes like home, whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or just because it’s Tuesday.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Pie
Gathering the right ingredients is half the battle when making the perfect Sweet Potato Pie. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes, boiled and peeled)
- 1 cup sugar (granulated works best, but brown sugar adds extra depth)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (salted or unsalted both work)
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (the real stuff makes a difference!)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought—no judgment here)
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Let me share a few insider tips about these ingredients:
Sweet potatoes: Fresh is best—they have better flavor and texture than canned. But in a pinch, a 15-oz can of sweet potato puree will work (just drain any excess liquid).
Butter alternatives: If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil works surprisingly well. Just use the same amount melted.
Spices: Feel free to play with the amounts—I sometimes add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth. The key is tasting as you go!
Equipment Needed for Sweet Potato Pie
Don’t worry—you don’t need any fancy gadgets to make this pie shine! Here’s what I always grab from my kitchen:
- A good mixing bowl (I like a big one so I can stir without making a mess)
- 9-inch pie dish (glass or ceramic works best for even baking)
- Hand mixer or whisk (for smoothing out that filling)
- Oven (obviously!)
That’s it! No special tools—just the basics you probably already have.
How to Make Sweet Potato Pie
Alright, let’s get to the fun part—making that dreamy Sweet Potato Pie! I promise it’s easier than you think, and the results are always worth it. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a pie that’ll make everyone at the table smile.
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling
First things first—get that filling silky smooth. Start by mashing your sweet potatoes really well (no lumps allowed!). I like to use a fork or potato masher, but a quick blitz with a hand mixer works great too.
Now, add in the melted butter and sugar, mixing until everything’s fully combined. Crack in those eggs one at a time, stirring well after each one—this keeps the filling nice and creamy. Then, stir in the vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Taste it! If you want a little more spice, go ahead and add a pinch. The filling should be smooth, slightly thick, and smell like heaven.

Step 2: Assemble and Bake the Pie
Time to bring it all together! Pour that gorgeous filling into your unbaked pie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula—no need to be perfect, just even. If you’re feeling fancy, crimp the edges of the crust for a little extra flair.
Pop it into a preheated 350°F oven and let it work its magic. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight wobble (it’ll firm up as it cools). If the crust starts browning too quickly, just loosely tent it with foil. When it’s done, the top should be golden and your kitchen will smell like a holiday dream.
Let the pie cool completely before slicing—I know, it’s hard to wait, but trust me, it makes all the difference! The filling sets up perfectly, and you’ll get those clean, beautiful slices.
Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Pie
After years of baking this pie (and eating way too many test slices), I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference:
- Don’t overmix the filling: Once everything’s combined, stop stirring! Overmixing can make the pie dense instead of light and creamy.
- Let it cool completely: I know it’s tempting to dive in, but waiting at least 2 hours lets the filling set properly—no runny slices!
- Shield the crust: If the edges start browning too fast, cover them with foil or a pie crust shield. Nobody likes burnt crust!
- Room temp eggs matter: Cold eggs can make the filling separate—take them out 30 minutes before baking.
Follow these, and your pie will be downright legendary.
Serving Suggestions for Sweet Potato Pie
Oh, the joy of slicing into a perfect Sweet Potato Pie—but let’s talk about how to make it even better! My family always argues over the best way to serve it. Some swear by a big dollop of freshly whipped cream (I add a dash of vanilla to mine). Others insist vanilla ice cream melting into the warm pie is pure heaven. For a fancy touch, try a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of toasted pecans. Honestly? It’s delicious plain too—just hand me a fork!

Storing and Reheating Sweet Potato Pie
Here’s the thing about Sweet Potato Pie—it tastes even better the next day! To keep leftovers fresh, just cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days. Want to revive that just-baked warmth? Slip individual slices into a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the oven keeps the crust crisp and the filling creamy. Trust me, breakfast pie is totally acceptable!
Sweet Potato Pie FAQs
Over the years, I’ve gotten all sorts of questions about making the perfect Sweet Potato Pie. Here are the ones that come up most often—with the honest answers I’ve learned from my own kitchen experiments!
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, in a pinch! A 15-oz can of sweet potato puree works (drain any liquid first). But fresh sweet potatoes give better flavor and texture—just boil or roast them until fork-tender before mashing.
Why is my pie filling cracking?
Usually means it baked too long or cooled too fast. The center should still jiggle slightly when you pull it from the oven—it sets as it cools. If your oven runs hot, try reducing the temp by 25°F.
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Bake it 1-2 days before serving. The flavors actually improve. Just store covered in the fridge and bring to room temp before serving (or warm slightly in the oven).
Is this like pumpkin pie?
Similar concept, but the taste is all its own! Sweet potato pie is creamier with deeper caramel notes. The spices are warmer too—more cinnamon and nutmeg than pumpkin’s usual blend.
Nutritional Information
Just so you know what you’re diving into with this delicious Sweet Potato Pie (because let’s be real—we’re all having seconds!), here’s the scoop per slice:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
Remember, these are estimates—actual amounts can vary based on your exact ingredients and slice size. But hey, with all that vitamin A from the sweet potatoes, I say it practically counts as health food!
Share Your Sweet Potato Pie Experience
I’d love to hear how your Sweet Potato Pie turns out! Did you add any special twists? Snap a pic and tag me—nothing makes me happier than seeing your kitchen creations. Happy baking, friends!
Print
Irresistible Sweet Potato Pie Recipe with 5 Secret Tips
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic dessert made with sweet potatoes, spices, and a flaky crust.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 unbaked pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl.
- Pour mixture into the unbaked pie crust.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes or until set.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh sweet potatoes for best flavor.
- Adjust sugar to taste.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg

