Sweet Potato Pie

Author:

March 18, 2026

Updated:

March 18, 2026

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Sweet potato pie is a delicious and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion. With its creamy filling and warm spices, this pie offers a delightful twist on traditional desserts. Easy to prepare, it’s an ideal recipe for home cooks of all levels, especially beginners and families looking to share a memorable treat.

Homemade sweet potato pie with whipped cream topping

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sweet potato pie is incredibly versatile and universally loved. Its rich flavor and smooth texture make it a favorite at holiday dinners, gatherings, or simply as a cozy dessert at home. The recipe is straightforward, ensuring a reliable result every time you make it. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, making it both accessible and easy.

Table of Contents

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful sweet potato pie:

  • 1 lb sweet potatoes
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • A pinch of ground cloves
  • 1 9 inch unbaked pie crust

Ingredient Notes, Variations & Simple Swaps

Feel free to tweak this recipe based on your preferences or what you have at home. For instance, you can use dairy-free butter and milk for a vegan version, or swap in a different type of sweetener, such as maple syrup, if you prefer. If you don’t have a nine-inch pie crust handy, you can use a glass baking dish instead. This recipe also works well if you’d like to mix in a bit of pumpkin spice for a twist!

Equipment Needed

  • Oven
  • Cookie sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Potato masher or fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9-inch pie dish

How to Make This Recipe

Step 1 – Bake the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Start by wrapping the sweet potatoes in foil and placing them on a cookie sheet. Bake for about 45 minutes or until they are soft and can be easily pierced with a fork. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely.

Step 2 – Prepare the Filling

When the sweet potatoes have cooled, lower the oven temperature to 350°F. Carefully unwrap the sweet potatoes and remove their skins. In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes and unsalted butter together until smooth. Then, whisk in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, whole milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and ground cloves. Mix until everything is well combined and the mixture is creamy.

Step 3 – Bake the Pie

Pour the sweet potato filling into the unbaked pie crust. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. It’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the pie cool for a bit before serving, either warm or chilled. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or marshmallow fluff for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tips for Perfect Results

To ensure you make the best sweet potato pie, consider these tips:

  • Use fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor.
  • Make sure to mash the sweet potatoes thoroughly for a creamy filling.
  • If the filling seems too thick, add a splash of milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes; if the edges are browning too quickly, cover them with foil.
  • Store any leftovers in the fridge and enjoy them chilled or reheated.

Flavor Variations

You can experiment with various flavors to customize your sweet potato pie:

  • Add a tablespoon of maple syrup for a hint of autumn flavor.
  • Incorporate a dash of ginger for some extra warmth.
  • Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
  • Try using coconut milk instead of whole milk for a delicious tropical twist.
  • Top the pie with a crumbly streusel topping made from oats and brown sugar.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Sweet potato pie is delightful on its own, but pairing it with other treats can elevate your meal. Consider serving it with:

  • Whipped cream
  • Marshmallow fluff
  • Vanilla ice cream
  • A dollop of crème fraîche
  • Caramel sauce for drizzling

Storage, Make-Ahead & Leftovers

You can store your sweet potato pie in the fridge for up to five days. Just make sure it’s covered well to prevent it from drying out. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, you can bake the pie and let it cool before storing it in the fridge. You can also freeze it before baking; simply wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake at 350°F until warmed through.

Homemade sweet potato pie with whipped cream topping

Sweet Potato Pie

A delicious and comforting dessert with a creamy filling and warm spices, perfect for any special occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings

Ingredients
  

For the filling

  • 1 lb sweet potatoes Use fresh for best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature Can be substituted with dairy-free butter for a vegan version.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Can be substituted with other sweeteners like maple syrup.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup whole milk Coconut milk can be used for a tropical twist.
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • A pinch ground cloves
  • 1 9 inch unbaked pie crust You can use a glass baking dish instead.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F. Wrap the sweet potatoes in foil and place them on a cookie sheet.
  • Bake for about 45 minutes or until soft and easily pierced with a fork. Let them cool completely.
  • Lower the oven temperature to 350°F. Unwrap the sweet potatoes and remove their skins.

Making the Filling

  • In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes and unsalted butter together until smooth.
  • Whisk in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, whole milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and ground cloves. Mix until creamy and well combined.

Baking the Pie

  • Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust.
  • Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let the pie cool slightly before serving, warm or chilled.

Notes

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to five days. Can be frozen before baking for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before baking to reheat.
Keyword comfort food, Dessert, holiday treat, Sweet Potato Pie, Thanksgiving Dessert
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when you insert a toothpick into the center and it comes out clean. The edges may darken slightly, but be careful not to overbake it.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this sweet potato pie suitable for gluten-free diets.

How long does it take to bake the sweet potatoes?

Baking sweet potatoes usually takes around 45 minutes at 400°F, but this can vary depending on their size.

Can I serve this pie warm?

Yes, sweet potato pie can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference. Enjoy it however you like best!

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