If you’re looking to wow your friends and family with a dessert that’s both soul-soothing and packed with rich Southern charm, this Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe is a must-try. Imagine a velvety, creamy filling bursting with warm spices, perfectly balanced by the tangy smoothness of buttermilk, all nestled inside a flaky, buttery pie crust. Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness and beautiful orange hue that make every slice a feast for the eyes and palate alike. It’s the kind of dish that can easily become your new holiday favorite or a comforting classic for any time of year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work in harmony to create that iconic sweet potato pie flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether lending moisture, sweetness, or that unforgettable warmth from the spices.
- 1 9-inch pie crust (unbaked): Provides a buttery, flaky base that supports the luscious filling perfectly.
- 2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes: The star ingredient delivering natural sweetness and creamy body.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and a silky texture to the filling.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering the sweet potatoes’ natural flavors.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Introduces a hint of molasses depth and lovely caramel notes.
- 3 large eggs: Bind everything together for a custard-like consistency.
- ¾ cup buttermilk: Gives a delightful tang and lightness, making this a true Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds aromatic warmth.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses that classic autumnal spice we all love.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nuttiness and depth.
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a slight zesty kick without overwhelming the other spices.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies all flavors.
How to Make Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This sets the stage for the pie to bake evenly with a perfectly tender filling and a golden crust.
Step 2: Create the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes and melted butter until wonderfully smooth. This blend ensures the texture will be velvety rather than grainy.
Step 3: Sweeten and Spice
Next, add both granulated and brown sugar along with the eggs. Beat the mixture until everything is fully incorporated and silky. Then stir in the buttermilk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This combination creates the creamy, spiced filling that defines this Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe.
Step 4: Fill the Crust
Pour the luscious filling into your unbaked pie crust, smoothing the top gently with a spatula. This ensures even baking and a polished look when finished.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the pie for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is just set and a knife inserted near the middle comes out clean. If you notice the crust edges browning too fast, cover them with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before slicing. This resting time helps the filling firm up for clean, beautiful slices. Serve plain or topped with a cloud of whipped cream for extra decadence.
How to Serve Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A dollop of whipped cream is a classic choice, offering a light and creamy contrast to the dense spiced filling. For a little extra flair, consider sprinkling some toasted pecans on top or a dusting of cinnamon for eye-catching presentation and texture.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a comforting finish to any meal. If serving during holiday dinners, it complements roasted turkey or ham beautifully, adding that sweet spice note that rounds out the savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the pie into smaller, bite-sized pieces for dessert buffets or party trays. You can also serve individual portions in ramekins topped with a swirl of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped candied ginger to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors bright and the filling moist, perfect for enjoying later without losing any magic.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe later on, you can freeze it unbaked or baked. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or serving.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10 to 15 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until warm. This will revive the pie’s inviting aroma and creamy texture without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
While fresh is always best for flavor and texture, you can substitute canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Make sure they are well-drained and pureed smoothly to keep the filling consistent.
What makes this Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe different from regular sweet potato pie?
The addition of buttermilk adds a subtle tang and extra creaminess that elevates the filling, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor in a uniquely delicious way.
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Absolutely! A homemade pie crust can add extra buttery flakiness that complements the filling beautifully. If you have the time, rolling your own crust adds that special homemade touch.
How do I prevent the crust edges from burning?
Simply cover the edges of your pie crust with strips of aluminum foil or a pie shield once they turn golden, especially during the last 15 minutes of baking. This protects them from over-browning.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe contains no meat or gelatin and fits perfectly into a vegetarian diet. Just be sure your pie crust is free from animal fats if you want to keep it strictly vegetarian.
Final Thoughts
Treat yourself and your loved ones to this irresistibly creamy and warmly spiced Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe. It’s a dessert that feels like a heartfelt hug, full of tradition yet with a fresh twist thanks to the tangy buttermilk. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire. Go ahead, bake a pie, and savor every swoon-worthy bite together.
Print
Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern, American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie is a classic Southern dessert featuring a creamy, spiced sweet potato filling enriched with buttermilk and baked in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for holidays or any cozy occasion, it offers a smooth texture balanced by warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger notes, making it irresistible when served plain or topped with whipped cream.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 9-inch pie crust (unbaked)
Filling
- 2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes (about 2 medium)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
- Mix Sweet Potato and Butter: In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Sugars and Eggs: Incorporate the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs into the sweet potato mixture. Beat until the ingredients are fully combined, ensuring a consistent texture.
- Stir in Remaining Ingredients: Add the buttermilk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt to the bowl. Stir thoroughly until the filling achieves a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Pour the sweet potato filling into the unbaked 9-inch pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly across the crust.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. To prevent the crust edges from over-browning, cover them with foil during the last 15 minutes if necessary. The pie is done when the center is just set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature before slicing. Serve it plain or topped with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, roast the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them before mashing.
- This pie can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Allow the pie to come to room temperature before serving to achieve the best texture.
