“`html
If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that wraps you in cozy warmth with every bite, this Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe is your new best friend. It perfectly marries the earthiness of sweet potatoes with the tangy creaminess of buttermilk, giving you a silky, comforting filling held together by a flaky, buttery crust. Whether it’s a holiday table showstopper or a quiet weekend treat, this pie delivers a beautiful balance of sweet, spice, and tender richness that feels like a warm hug from the South.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays an important role to create that rich, silky texture and delightful flavor in this Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe. These pantry staples come together so simply but with seriously impressive results.
- Unbaked 9-inch pie crust: The foundation of flaky buttery goodness that holds your luscious filling.
- 1 1/2 cups mashed cooked sweet potato: The star of the show, providing natural sweetness and creamy body.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel to the pie.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling evenly, balancing the earthiness of the potatoes.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar: Imparts a subtle molasses flavor that deepens the overall taste.
- 3 large eggs: The binder that gives the pie filling structure and creaminess.
- 3/4 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and moisture, lifting the flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the sweet potato base.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses gentle spice that awakens your palate.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A classic twist for that cozy, autumnal aroma.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy notes in this pie.
How to Make Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Crust
Start by warming your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get your unbaked 9-inch pie crust ready, ideally resting in a pie dish so it’s prepared to hold that rich filling without any fuss.
Step 2: Blend the Sweet Potato and Butter
In a large bowl, stir together the mashed sweet potatoes and melted butter until completely smooth and silky. This combination forms the base of your luscious custard and ensures every bite is creamy without lumps.
Step 3: Mix in Sugars, Eggs, and Buttermilk
Next, add both the granulated and light brown sugars along with the eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or hand mixer to blend until the mixture is uniform and velvety. The buttermilk’s tang pairs beautifully here, balancing sweetness and adding moisture.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These spices aren’t just for flavor; they awaken the sweet potato filling with warmth and a hint of holiday nostalgia that’s impossible to resist.
Step 5: Fill and Bake
Pour the filling into your prepared pie crust and gently smooth the surface for an even bake. Pop the pie in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. If the crust edges brown too quickly, shield them with foil during the last 15 to 20 minutes of baking to avoid burning.
Step 6: Cool and Set
Once baked, let your Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie cool completely at room temperature. This resting period allows the filling to set up perfectly before slicing.
How to Serve Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast that melts on your tongue alongside the creamy pie filling. For a little crunch and spice, top with toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar.
Side Dishes
Pair this pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to make the experience decadently sweet. Coffee or a warm chai latte also make fantastic companions, balancing richness with gentle spice.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the pie in individual tartlets for a festive party or alongside fresh seasonal fruits like pears or cranberries for a colorful, welcoming spread. A sprinkle of edible flowers or finely chopped fresh mint can add unexpected elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool the pie completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, so leftovers can be just as delightful as fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze the pie either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or serving.
Reheating
To enjoy it warm, reheat slices in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the flaky crust and silky filling texture.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this pie?
Yes! Canned sweet potatoes work well as long as they are mashed until very smooth with no lumps. However, fresh roasted sweet potatoes tend to offer the best natural sweetness and texture.
Is it necessary to use buttermilk?
Buttermilk is key for its tangy flavor and creamy texture, but if you’re out, you can substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the acidity.
How do I prevent the crust edges from burning?
Simply cover the edges with aluminum foil or a pie shield about halfway through baking. This protects them from getting too brown while the filling finishes setting.
Can I make this pie vegan or dairy-free?
This traditional Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe relies on eggs, butter, and buttermilk for its signature texture. For a vegan version, you’d need to swap these with suitable plant-based alternatives and expect some texture differences.
How long does the pie take to set after baking?
Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature, which usually takes about 2 hours. This cooling time is essential to achieve the perfect sliceable consistency.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about this Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe that invites you to slow down and savor each bite. It’s a true southern classic that brings a touch of comfort and warmth any time of the year. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with those you love—it’s one of those dishes that becomes a beloved tradition before you know it.
“`
Print
Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Southern American dessert, this Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie features a silky, smooth filling made from mashed sweet potatoes, buttermilk, and warm spices, all baked to perfection in a flaky pie crust. It’s a comforting holiday favorite that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy occasion.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups mashed cooked sweet potato (about 2 medium)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the pie.
- Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with melted butter, mixing until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Use a whisk or hand mixer to blend everything together until the mixture is silky and fully combined.
- Fill Pie Crust: Pour the sweet potato filling into the unbaked 9-inch pie crust, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top for an attractive finish.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The pie is done when the center is set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. If the crust edges begin to brown too quickly, carefully cover them with foil during the last 15 to 20 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature to let the filling set properly. Serve plain or topped with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Ensure sweet potatoes are well-mashed and free of lumps for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Use either store-bought or homemade pie crust according to your preference.
- For added flavor and a touch of sweetness, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar on top of the filling before baking.
