Easy Sweet Potato Pie Recipe: A Deliciously Simple Thanksgiving Treat
Are you looking for an easy sweet potato pie recipe that will impress your family and friends this Thanksgiving, or any time of the year? Look no further! This recipe is designed to be simple, delicious, and perfect for even novice bakers. Forget complicated techniques and long ingredient lists – this recipe focuses on delivering maximum flavor with minimum effort.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a last-minute dessert or a casual weeknight treat. You likely already have most of them in your pantry!
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For the Sweet Potato Filling:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cooked (baked, boiled, or microwaved – your choice!)
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
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For the Crust:
- 1 (9-inch) pre-made pie crust (store-bought is perfectly acceptable!)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Sweet Potato Pie Perfection
This recipe is broken down into simple, easy-to-follow steps, perfect for bakers of all levels.
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Begin by preparing your sweet potatoes. You can bake, boil, or microwave them until tender. Once cooked, let them cool slightly before mashing them thoroughly. This is crucial for a smooth and creamy pie filling.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Don't overmix!
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the sweet potato filling into your prepared pie crust. Make sure to distribute the filling evenly.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it – ovens vary! If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents a messy pie. Enjoy your delicious, homemade sweet potato pie!
Tips and Variations for the Ultimate Sweet Potato Pie
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
- Nutty delight: Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Make it your own: Experiment with different spices to find your perfect blend.
- Make ahead: The filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated, making baking on Thanksgiving day even easier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use canned sweet potatoes? A: Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes, but be sure to drain them well before using.
Q: How do I know when the pie is done? A: The pie is done when the filling is set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
Q: Can I freeze this pie? A: Yes, you can freeze this pie, but it's best to freeze it before serving.
This easy sweet potato pie recipe is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy! Remember to share your delicious creations with us – we’d love to see your sweet potato pie masterpieces!
