Grandma Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie Recipe: Irresistible

Walking into a kitchen filled with the smell of sweet potato pie is heartwarming. It brings back memories of laughter and special moments. This treasured Grandma Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie Recipe isn’t just a dessert—it’s a culinary heirloom that transforms simple ingredients into a masterpiece of flavor and nostalgia.

 This pie, often seen at Thanksgiving, is more than just dessert. It’s a symbol of comfort and tradition.

What makes this Grandma Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie Recipe truly special is its simplicity and depth of flavor. It’s a recipe that doesn’t require complicated techniques or exotic ingredients—just pure, honest cooking passed down through generations. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this sweet potato pie recipe promises a dessert that will become a treasured tradition in your own family.

Quick Recipe Card

Grandma Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Servings: 8-10 slices

Nutritional Information (per slice):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 4g

Ingredients Needed for the Perfect Pie

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious pie:

• 1 ½ pounds of fresh sweet potatoes (about 3 cups when softened and peeled)
• 1 cup of light brown sugar
• ¼ cup of white sugar
• 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter (melted)
• 12 oz can of evaporated milk
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon of ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon of salt
• For the pie crust: 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, 2 tablespoons of white sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt

Helpful Kitchen Tools

Here are the kitchen tools you’ll need for smooth baking:

• Electric mixer for easily whipping the filling
• Mixing bowls for combining all the ingredients
• Standard 9-inch pie dish
• Oven for baking
• Parchment paper and pie weights for blind baking the crust

Brief Instructions:

1. Prepare sweet potatoes
2. Mix wet ingredients
3. Add spices
4. Pour into pie crust
5. Bake until set
6. Cool and serve

Ingredient Deep Dive

Sweet potatoes are the heart and soul of this Grandma Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie Recipe. Choosing the right sweet potatoes can make or break your pie’s success. Look for orange-fleshed varieties like Beauregard or Jewel, which offer the most vibrant color and sweetest flavor. These varieties ensure your sweet potato pie recipe delivers that signature rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Sweet Potatoes: While orange sweet potatoes are ideal, you can use white sweet potatoes for a slightly less sweet version.
• Butter: For a dairy-free sweet potato pie recipe, substitute coconut oil or vegan butter.
• Evaporated Milk: Use coconut milk or almond milk for alternative dietary needs.

Storage Tips:

• Raw sweet potatoes can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 2 weeks.
• Cooked sweet potato pie stays fresh in the fridge for 3–4 days.
• Always cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.

Temperature Recommendations:

• Sweet potatoes should be stored at room temperature before baking.
• Pie filling ingredients work best when brought to room temperature.
• Bake your sweet potato pie at 425°F (218°C) for the first 15 minutes, then reduce to 350°F (177°C).

Make this pie for Thanksgiving or any family event. It’s an easy yet tasty dessert. With simple ingredients and tools, anyone can make a sweet potato pie masterpiece.

How to Make Grandma’s Sweet Potato Pie

Making an easy sweet potato pie at home is a rewarding experience. It honors the rich traditions of southern sweet potato pie. This recipe guides you through making a delightful dessert. By following these steps, you’ll bring out the sweet potatoes’ natural sweetness and mix the ingredients just right.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Sweet Potatoes:
   1. Wash and peel 2-3 medium sweet potatoes.
   2. Boil or steam the sweet potatoes until they are tender, approximately 15–20 minutes.
   3. Thoroughly drain and mash them to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
2. Prepare Pie Crust:
   1. If using homemade crust, roll out and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
   2. Crimp edges decoratively.
   3. Refrigerate while preparing filling.
3. Create Filling:
   1. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes and melted butter.
   2. Beat eggs and add to sweet potato mixture.
   3. Gradually incorporate sugar, evaporated milk, and vanilla.
4. Spice It Up:
   1. Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
   2. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
   3. Taste and adjust spices if needed.
5. Baking Process:
   1. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
   2. Pour filling into prepared pie crust.
   3. Bake for 15 minutes at high temperature.
   4. Reduce heat to 350°F (177°C).
   5. Bake for an additional 40-45 minutes.

Pro Tip: The pie is done when a knife inserted near the center comes out clean, and the filling is set but still slightly jiggly.

Baking Tips for Optimal Flavor

• Use fresh sweet potatoes for the best taste. Choose ones that are firm and without blemishes.
• Watch the pie while it bakes. If the crust browns too fast, cover it with foil.
• Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
• Try dark brown sugar for a richer flavor or add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
• Store leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze it for as long as three months.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Creating the best sweet potato pie recipe requires more than just following instructions—it’s about understanding the nuances of baking.

Professional Baker Insights:

• Always start with room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing.
• Avoid overmixing the filling to maintain a soft and tender texture.
• Use fresh spices for maximum flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Cracked Top: Often caused by overbaking. Remove pie when center is slightly jiggly.
• Soggy Crust: Brush crust with egg wash before filling to create a barrier.
• Uneven Baking: Rotate pie halfway through baking.

Make-Ahead Instructions:

• The sweet potato filling can be prepared up to two days in advance.
• A baked pie can be frozen and kept for up to two months.
• Thaw in refrigerator overnight before serving.

Variations and Customizations

While this Grandma Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie Recipe is perfect as-is, feel free to experiment with these delightful variations.

Seasonal Adaptations:

• Thanksgiving Version: Top with candied pecans
• Summer Twist: Add a dollop of whipped cream with orange zest
• Holiday Spin: Drizzle with caramel sauce

Dietary Modifications:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crust
• Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk
• Low-Sugar: Replace some sugar with monk fruit sweetener

Decoration Ideas:

• Pipe whipped cream rosettes
• Sprinkle with toasted marshmallows
• Dust with additional cinnamon

Exploring sweet potato pie opens up a world of exciting variations. Many people like to add unique sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. These sweeteners boost the natural sweetness and add a special flavor.

Try different crusts for a new twist. A graham cracker crust adds a nice crunch that goes well with the creamy filling. You can also play with spices to make the pie your own. Adding more cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves can give it a fresh taste.

For a truly unique pie, add extra ingredients. Vanilla bean can make the flavor richer, while citrus zest adds a refreshing touch. Chocolate lovers can add dark chocolate ganache for a rich, indulgent taste.

The beauty of sweet potato pie is its flexibility. You can change the filling or the crust to make it your own. Let your creativity shine and make a pie that reflects your taste.

Serving Suggestions for Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie is a delightful mix of flavors, perfect for many occasions. A few simple enhancements can make it even more delicious. The best way to serve it involves thoughtful pairings that complement its sweet and spiced filling.

Consider these serving suggestions:

With these serving ideas, you can ensure that your sweet potato pie reaches its full potential. It’s a treat that will delight your friends and family.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing sweet potato pie right is key to keeping its taste and texture great. Always cover the pie well before refrigerating to keep it fresh for several days.

For a chilled dessert, chill the pie in the fridge for hours or overnight. This lets the flavors mix better. To warm it up, use the oven or an air fryer. Heat the oven to 350°F and warm the pie for 10-15 minutes.

For microwave reheating, warm individual slices for 20-30 seconds. This method works well for quick warming.

Want to keep your pie longer? Freeze it! Reheat frozen pie at 300°F for 40-50 minutes. For optimal texture and flavor, thaw the frozen pie in the refrigerator overnight.This keeps it fluffy and flavorful.

Conclusion

Making Grandma Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie recipe is more than baking. It’s a way to connect generations. This pie is filled with comfort and nostalgia, perfect for holidays or special events. Its rich history and love make it a favorite, bringing warmth and joy to your kitchen.

Remembering how to make it and how to serve it will deepen your love for this classic dessert. With a homemade crust and a filling of fresh sweet potatoes and spices, each slice is a taste of family traditions. It’s best enjoyed with your favorite sides and drinks, making it a treasured part of your family’s meals.

Don’t just read the recipe—bake it! Share your creation  and delicious moments with us.

FAQ

What makes Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie unique?

Grandma’s Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie is loved for its creamy texture and spiced filling. It has a flaky crust. This classic Southern dessert brings warmth and nostalgia, making it a hit at family gatherings and holidays like Thanksgiving.

Can I use alternative sweeteners in the sweet potato pie recipe?

Yes, you can try using maple syrup or honey instead of sugar. These sweeteners give the pie a unique taste while keeping it sweet.

How do I ensure the crust doesn’t over-brown while baking?

To stop the crust from getting too dark, cover the edges with foil halfway through baking. Or, lower the oven temperature a bit during the last minutes.

What are some common toppings for sweet potato pie?

People love topping it with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce. Adding candied pecans or cinnamon makes it even more festive.

How long does sweet potato pie last when refrigerated?

Sweet potato pie can stay fresh for up to four days in the fridge. Just make sure to cover it to keep its taste and freshness.

Is it possible to make sweet potato pie using a graham cracker crust?

Yes! A graham cracker crust is a tasty twist. It gives the pie a different texture and flavor, making it an easy and unique dessert.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the pie if I want to serve it warm?

If you want to serve the pie warm, you can keep it at room temperature for a bit. But, it’s best to refrigerate leftovers and reheat them gently in the oven or air fryer before serving