Mama Mabel'S Sweet Potato Pie
A rich and creamy sweet potato pie with warm spices, perfect for holiday gatherings or comforting desserts, appealing to everyone who loves classic Southern flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil sweet potatoes in a pot until tender.
- Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once cooked, run potatoes under cold water for a few minutes to peel easily.
- Peel and mash the sweet potatoes thoroughly.
- Add butter to the warm mashed sweet potatoes and stir until melted.
- In a mixing bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and vanilla.
- Add beaten eggs to the mixture and blend well.
- Stir in evaporated milk until smooth.
- Pour the filling into a prepared 9-inch pie shell.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until filling is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. If you're short on time, you can use canned sweet potatoes, but ensure they are well-drained. Adding a pinch of ginger can enhance the spice profile, reminiscent of North Carolina Grated Sweet Potato Pudding. Always taste the filling before pouring it into the crust to adjust sweetness or spices to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mama Mabel's Sweet Potato Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a side of Fluff Salad for a delightful contrast. A warm cup of spiced chai or coffee also complements the flavors, making this dessert a perfect end to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the pie to cool completely before storing. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm the entire pie in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain the pie's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama Mabel'S Sweet Potato Pie contains roughly 673 calories, with 4g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 894mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh sweet potatoes are a great option and can enhance the flavor. Simply boil and mash them as instructed. Fresh sweet potatoes tend to have a richer taste and texture compared to canned varieties, so they are often preferred for pies.
What can I substitute for evaporated milk?
You can substitute evaporated milk with an equal amount of whole milk or a mixture of milk and cream for a creamier texture. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using coconut milk or almond milk; just be aware that this may slightly change the flavor of the pie.
How can I tell when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the filling is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. It should have a slight jiggle but not be overly wobbly. If you notice the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning while the filling continues to cook.
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).