SWEET POTATO PIE

Classic Sweet Potato Pie
Rich, creamy, and spiced with warm flavors, this Sweet Potato Pie is a cozy dessert perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. Maple syrup and a splash of dark rum enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, while the heavy cream makes each bite melt-in-your-mouth smooth.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Sweet Potatoes: Packed with fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants, they add natural sweetness and nutrition.
• Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener with minerals like manganese and zinc, adding rich flavor with less processed sugar.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Filled with warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, known for their anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, baked or boiled until soft, skins removed
• ¾ cup maple syrup
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp dark rum (optional, for added depth)
• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell (store-bought or homemade)

Cooking Tips:

• Sweet Potatoes: Ensure the sweet potatoes are thoroughly cooked and tender before mashing for a smooth, creamy pie filling.
• Dark Rum: The rum is optional but adds a warm, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
• Pie Shell: Pre-chill your pie crust in the freezer for 15 minutes before filling to prevent a soggy bottom.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Bake or boil the sweet potatoes until soft. Once cooled slightly, peel off the skins and place the flesh in a large mixing bowl.
2. Mash Sweet Potatoes: Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. For an extra creamy texture, you can press them through a fine mesh strainer or use a food processor.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the maple syrup, heavy whipping cream, eggs, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and dark rum. Beat each ingredient in with an electric mixer on low speed before adding the next to ensure everything blends smoothly.
4. Mix Until Smooth: Once all ingredients are added, increase the mixer speed to medium and beat the mixture for about 2 minutes, until the filling is smooth and well-combined.
5. Fill Pie Shell: Pour the sweet potato filling into the unbaked pie shell, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the pie in the oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
7. Cool Completely: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack until it reaches room temperature. This allows the flavors to fully develop and the filling to set.
8. Serve: Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your Sweet Potato Pie chilled or at room temperature with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for a festive touch.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This pie freezes well! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Sweet Potato Pie is smooth, creamy, and full of comforting flavors, from maple syrup to warm spices. It’s easy to make, yet impressive enough to serve for any holiday gathering or family celebration!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour