A silky, warmly spiced sweet potato pie with a flaky crust — a Southern dessert classic that tastes like home.
A Louisiana Story Behind This Dish
Sweet potato pie is a staple of Southern dessert tables, especially in Louisiana where family recipes are treasured and passed down through generations. It shows up at holidays, Sunday dinners, and celebrations, often sitting proudly at the center of the dessert spread.
The filling is smooth and gently spiced, letting the natural sweetness of the potatoes shine. It’s comforting, nostalgic, and deeply rooted in Southern tradition — the kind of dessert that brings people back for just one more slice.
New Orleans Desserts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Smooth, creamy texture with warm spices
- Classic Southern comfort dessert
- Simple ingredients and easy steps
- Perfect for holidays and gatherings
- Even better the next day
Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6–8 slices
Cuisine: Southern / Louisiana-style
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes (about 2–3 medium sweet potatoes)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Directions
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). - Prepare the sweet potatoes:
Boil or bake sweet potatoes until tender. Peel and mash until smooth. - Make the filling:
In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, evaporated milk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended. - Fill the crust:
Pour the sweet potato filling into the unbaked pie crust and smooth the top. - Bake:
Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean. - Cool:
Remove from oven and allow pie to cool completely before slicing. - Serve:
Slice and serve plain or with whipped cream.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Pie
- Blend the filling for extra smooth texture.
- Don’t overbake — the center should just set.
- Let the pie cool fully for clean slices.
- Chill before serving for firmer texture.
What to Serve With Sweet Potato Pie
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Coffee or tea
- Fresh berries
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes — drain well and mash smoothly.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes — it tastes better after chilling.
Can I freeze sweet potato pie?
Yes — freeze tightly wrapped.
Storage & Reheating
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
Sweet potato pie is Southern tradition baked into every slice — smooth, spiced, and meant for sharing. Cut a generous piece and let the good times cook.