Paula Deen Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
Nothing smells like home quite like a Paula Deen Sweet Potato Pie Recipe baking in the oven. This classic Southern dessert is the ultimate comfort food for any time of year.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes about 2 large potatoes
- 1/2 cup softened butter 1 stick
- 1 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Instructions
Boil the Sweet Potatoes
- Peel and cube your sweet potatoes into even chunks. Boil them in water until they are very tender. Drain the water and let them cool for a few minutes.
Mash Until Smooth
- Place the warm potatoes in a large bowl. Use a masher or mixer to remove all lumps. You want a very smooth puree for the best texture.
Cream Butter and Sugar
- Add the softened butter and sugar to the mashed potatoes. Mix well until the butter is completely melted and combined. The mixture should look bright and creamy.
Add Liquid Ingredients
- Pour in the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture at medium speed. Ensure the eggs are fully incorporated into the sweet potato base.
Spice It Up
- Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These spices provide that classic Southern aroma. Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl often.
Prepare the Pie Crust
- Place your unbaked pie crust into the pie plate. Crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork. Prick the bottom slightly to prevent air bubbles.
Fill the Shell
- Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared crust. Smooth the top with a spoon. It should fill the shell almost to the very top.
Bake Until Set
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie for 45 to 50 minutes. The center should be firm but have a slight jiggle.
Cool Completely
- Remove the pie from the oven carefully. Place it on a wire rack to cool for two hours. This helps the filling set perfectly for slicing.
Notes
- Use Fresh Potatoes: Always use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned ones for better flavor.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Cold eggs can clump the butter, so let them sit out first.
- Add a Topping: Try adding a dollop of whipped cream or toasted marshmallows on top.
- Spice Swap: If you love ginger, add a pinch for a little extra zing.
- Bourbon Twist: A teaspoon of bourbon adds a sophisticated, smoky depth to the filling.
- Pre-bake the Crust: For a crispier bottom, blind-bake the crust for 8 minutes before filling.