Della Davis' Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet potato pie with a rich, spiced filling featuring mashed sweet potatoes, vanilla, lemon, and allspice, perfect for comforting desserts or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked sweet potatoes, butter, and sugar in a mixing bowl.
- Beat the egg yolks separately until thick and pale.
- Add the beaten egg yolks to the potato mixture and blend well.
- Stir in vanilla extract, lemon extract, and allspice or cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the potato mixture.
- Pour the mixture into an unbaked pie crust.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes.
- Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake until the filling is firm, about 50-60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even creamier filling, consider using half cream cheese and half sweet potatoes. If you're out of lemon extract, a splash of lemon juice works well as a substitute. To enhance the flavor, try incorporating a touch of nutmeg along with the allspice or cinnamon. This pie pairs beautifully with Vanilla Cream for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
This sweet potato pie is delightful on its own or topped with whipped cream. Consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. For a complete meal, pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables, which complement the sweetness of the pie beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for 30-45 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Della Davis' Sweet Potato Pie contains roughly 441 calories, with 5g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes to save time. Be sure to drain them well and mash them before using. This can help maintain the texture of the pie, but keep in mind that fresh sweet potatoes may provide a richer flavor.
Is there a gluten-free option for the pie crust?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free pie crust available at most grocery stores or make your own using gluten-free flour blends. Alternatively, a crustless version can be made by simply greasing the pie dish and baking the filling directly.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the filling is firm and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Depending on your oven, you may need to adjust baking times slightly, so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).