Name: Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 9-inch pie crust (unbaked); 2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes (about 2 medium); ¾ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup brown sugar; 3 large eggs; ½ cup orange juice; 2 tablespoons orange zest; ¾ cup evaporated milk or half-and-half; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon salt

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.4 from 78 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from your holiday traditions, this Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe is destined to become your new favorite. Imagine velvety smooth sweet potato custard infused with bright orange zest and juice, baked to silky perfection inside a flaky pie crust. It’s a delightful twist on a classic southern treat that balances comforting sweetness with a refreshing citrus zing. Every bite is rich, aromatic, and completely irresistible—perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on your own.

Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this luscious pie, you only need a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from bringing creamy texture to delivering that vibrant orange flavor that makes this custard truly special.

1 9-inch pie crust (unbaked): The buttery base that provides a flaky and crisp contrast to the smooth custard.
2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes: Creates the rich, creamy body of the pie with natural sweetness and a beautiful orange hue.
¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the delicate orange notes.
½ cup brown sugar: Gives depth and a subtle molasses undertone that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.
3 large eggs: Acts as a binder to achieve that custardy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
½ cup orange juice: Freshly squeezed if possible, to impart bright citrus flavor and moisture.
2 tablespoons orange zest: Essential for adding a fragrant, zesty punch that harmonizes with the sweetness.
¾ cup evaporated milk or half-and-half: Adds richness and smoothness, making the custard silky and luxurious.
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings a creamy richness and helps enhance the flavors.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides warmth and rounds out the orange and sweet potato flavors beautifully.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: A subtle spice that adds depth and a hint of warmth.
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Compliments the cinnamon with a sweet, nutty aroma.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the complex flavors of the pie.

How to Make Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. To get the best flavor from your sweet potatoes, you can roast them until soft or boil them until tender, then mash until smooth. This step lays the foundation for a smooth custard that’s packed with natural sweetness and vibrant color.

Step 2: Mix the Sweet Potato Base with Sugars and Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until the mixture is beautifully smooth. This combination gives the custard body and ensures the filling will set properly.

Step 3: Add the Orange and Cream Components

Next, stir in the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, evaporated milk or half-and-half, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk well until the filling is silky and fully combined. These ingredients add layers of brightness, richness, and warmth to the custard.

Step 4: Spice and Season the Filling

Finish the filling by folding in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. The spices bring cozy warmth and a subtle earthiness that perfectly balances the citrus and sweetness of the pie.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour your luscious custard filling into the unbaked pie crust, smoothing the top gently with a spatula. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is just set and a knife inserted near the middle comes out clean. Allow your pie to cool completely on a wire rack—this cooling step helps the custard finish setting for that perfect fork-tender slice.

How to Serve Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe

Garnishes

A quick sprinkle of fresh orange zest over a dollop of whipped cream not only looks beautiful but amplifies the pie’s fruity freshness with every bite. Toasted pecans or a drizzle of honey can also add a delightful crunch and extra sweetness.

Side Dishes

This custard pie pairs wonderfully with a simple scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or alongside a cup of hot spiced tea. For holiday gatherings, serving it with roasted nuts or lightly spiced mulled wine enhances the warm, comforting vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving mini versions of the Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe in tart pans for an elegant touch at dinner parties. You can also top each slice with candied orange slices or a cinnamon-stick skewer to impress your guests with thoughtful presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the complex flavors even after the holiday hustle.

Freezing

You can freeze this pie for up to one month by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain its creamy texture and vibrant orange flavor.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a low oven (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve the custard’s silky consistency and prevent it from becoming grainy.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this pie?

While fresh sweet potatoes roasted or boiled give the best flavor and texture, canned sweet potatoes can work in a pinch. Just be sure they are plain without added sugar or spices to maintain control over the recipe’s balance.

What can I substitute for evaporated milk?

If you don’t have evaporated milk, full-fat half-and-half or whole milk with a tablespoon of heavy cream can be a great substitute to keep the custard rich and creamy.

Is this pie suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! This Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe is naturally vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or gelatin. Just check that your pie crust doesn’t contain lard if you want to keep it fully vegetarian.

How do I know when the pie is fully baked?

The pie is done when the center is just set and a clean knife inserted near the middle comes out without wet batter. The custard may still have a slight jiggle but will firm up as it cools.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pie tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Bake it in advance, refrigerate overnight, and serve chilled or at room temperature for a delightful treat.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe. It’s that perfect blend of cozy, familiar smells and bright citrus notes that not only satisfies your dessert cravings but also brings a smile with every bite. Whether for a holiday celebration or a weekend treat, giving this recipe a try will reward you with a slice of comforting bliss. I can’t wait for you to experience how beautifully simple ingredients come together to make such a memorable dessert!