There’s something undeniably heartwarming about the rich, sweet scent of a pie baking in the oven—especially when it’s a Sweet Potato Pie. I first fell in love with this delightful dessert during the cooler months when my family would gather around the kitchen, sharing stories and savoring each warm slice. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes, hints of cinnamon, and a buttery crust creates a comforting treat that feels like a hug on a plate.

If you’re tired of the same old desserts or looking for a way to impress your friends at the next gathering, this pie is a perfect solution. It’s simple enough for a weeknight and elegant enough for special occasions. Plus, with its vibrant color and unique flavor, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Join me on this delicious journey as we whip up a Sweet Potato Pie that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why is Sweet Potato Pie a Must-Try?

Heavenly flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes, cream cheese, and spices creates a decadent treat that dances on your taste buds.
Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious pie that looks as amazing as it tastes.
Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive party, this pie is sure to steal the spotlight.
Seasonal delight: Its warmth and sweetness make it the ultimate dessert for fall and winter celebrations.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it warm or cold, and watch as everyone comes back for seconds! Enjoy making this delightful dessert, and for more cozy recipes, check out my collection of indulgent pies.

Sweet Potato Pie Ingredients

• Create a flavor-packed dessert with these ingredients.

3 ounces cream cheese – adds richness and creaminess to the filling.
½ cup butter – unsalted for a perfect buttery crust and rich flavor.
1 cup all-purpose flour – the backbone of a delightful pie crust.
2 cups mashed sweet potatoes – use fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor; canned works too!
2 tablespoons flour – helps to thicken the filling.
1 cup granulated sugar – sweetens the pie and balances the spices.
1 teaspoon vanilla – enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 teaspoon cinnamon – a warm spice that complements sweet potatoes beautifully.
½ teaspoon nutmeg – adds a nutty, warm depth to the filling.
½ teaspoon ground cloves – for an aromatic touch that elevates your Sweet Potato Pie.

How to Make Sweet Potato Pie

Preheat the oven to 350°F. This step is important to ensure your pie bakes evenly and develops a lovely golden color as it cooks.
Prepare your 9-inch pie pan by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray. This will help keep your pie crust from sticking, making it easier to slice later.
Mix the cream cheese and butter together in a medium-sized mixing bowl until well combined and smooth. This is the foundation for your rich filling!
Add in the flour and mix until the dough starts to clump together. You’ll notice it turning into a soft, pliable texture that’s perfect for a pie crust.
Knead together the dough if needed until it forms a ball, then press it evenly into the pie pan, covering both the bottom and the sides. This crust will cradle all that delicious filling!
Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into one-inch chunks. This helps them cook faster and results in a smoother puree.
Boil the sweet potato chunks in a pot of water that just covers them. Cook until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
Puree the cooked sweet potatoes in a food processor until you achieve a smooth consistency. This ensures a velvety filling that will melt in your mouth.
Combine the mashed sweet potatoes with the remaining ingredients in a large mixing bowl and stir until fully incorporated. The mixture should be vibrant and fragrant!
Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared pie shell, spreading it evenly. The wonderful colors should be a feast for the eyes!
Bake for 60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly browned. Your kitchen will smell heavenly as it bakes!

Optional: Serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Potato Pie preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance; simply press it into the pie pan, wrap tightly in plastic, and refrigerate. The sweet potato filling can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To maintain the rich texture and flavor, make sure the filling is completely cooled before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, pour the filling into the chilled crust and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a warm, decadent dessert with minimal effort on the day of serving!

Sweet Potato Pie Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and swaps to make your Sweet Potato Pie truly your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives for a pie that’s just as creamy and decadent.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour for a pie that everyone can enjoy without gluten.
Extra Spices: Amp up the flavor by adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom for a warm, aromatic twist that dances on your palate.
Nutty Crust: Incorporate crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts into your pie crust for a crunchy texture that complements the smooth filling.
Caramel Drizzle: Top with a homemade caramel sauce before serving to add a rich layer of sweetness that enhances the pie’s flavor.
Coconut Milk: Replace some of the mashed sweet potatoes with coconut milk for a tropical twist that adds creaminess and a hint of coconut flavor.
Chocolate Chips: Fold in some dark chocolate chips into the filling for a decadent chocolate-sweet potato fusion that’s absolutely irresistible.
Spiced Rum: Add a tablespoon of spiced rum to the filling for an adult twist that brings warmth and complexity to each slice.

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Pie

Room Temperature: Sweet potato pie can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover it loosely with foil or a clean kitchen towel to prevent it from drying out.

Fridge: Store any leftover sweet potato pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw before serving!

Reheating: To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy a delicious slice of your sweet potato pie!

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Pie

Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes offer a richer flavor than canned ones. Opt for those with smooth skin and firm texture for the best results.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can lead to a tough crust. Mix just until the dough clumps together and you can shape it without breaking apart.
Check Pie Doneness: To ensure the filling is perfectly set, gently shake the pie. If it wobbles slightly in the center, it’s ready. Underbaking can result in a soggy base.
Let It Cool: Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling firm up and makes serving easier!
Experiment with Spices: If you love a little extra kick, add a pinch of ginger or allspice to your Sweet Potato Pie filling for a delightful twist.

What to Serve with Sweet Potato Pie?

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a sweet, spiced pie wafting through your home, inviting loved ones to gather around the table.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense pie, enhancing its sweetness and texture.
Ice Cream: Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream provides a delightful cold creaminess that complements the warmth of the pie perfectly.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the pie’s sweetness, adding a vibrant pop of color and flavor to your dessert spread.
Pecans: Roasted pecans sprinkled on top add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor, deepening the overall deliciousness of each bite.
Coffee: A rich cup of coffee or a spiced chai serves as the perfect warm beverage to sip while relishing your slice of pie.
Apple Cider: Warm apple cider straight from the stove offers a cozy flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the sweet spices of the pie.
Pumpkin Bread: Add another layer of fall flavors with soft, spiced pumpkin bread on the side, creating a wonderful dessert duo.
Chocolate Tart: For those who love a chocolate twist, a small slice of decadent chocolate tart can elevate the dessert experience to new heights.
Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: These delightful cookies provide a bite-sized treat that echoes the comforting spices in the sweet potato pie, making for a heartwarming end to any meal.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your pie slice for a rich sweetness that takes this dessert to the next level of indulgence.

Sweet Potato Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm, smooth, and free from dark spots or blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size—this indicates moisture and sweetness! If they have sprouts or are soft, it’s best to skip those and pick fresh ones.

How should I store leftover sweet potato pie?
Very good question! Leftover sweet potato pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep it well covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain its deliciousness. Just a little TLC keeps your pie fresh!

Can I freeze sweet potato pie? How?
Yes, you can freeze sweet potato pie to enjoy later! To freeze, allow the pie to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat it in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes.

What should I do if my crust is too tough?
If you find that your pie crust is tough, it may have been overworked or possibly had too much flour added. Remember, when mixing, aim for a loose dough that holds together without kneading too much. For next time, try to mix just until the ingredients come together and take care to handle the dough gently while shaping it in the pan.

Are there any dietary considerations for sweet potato pie?
Absolutely! Sweet potato pie can be allergen-friendly with a few tweaks. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, which works wonderfully! If you’re concerned about dairy, try using dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives. Just ensure they have similar textures for the best results. Plus, always check ingredient labels for any allergies!

Can pets eat sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes are safe for dogs in moderation! They are nutritious and can be a great treat. However, avoid adding any sugar, spices, or other ingredients that might be harmful. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure about introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.