Candied Yams Sweet Potato Pie Recipe: Easy Holiday Dessert
Candied Yams Sweet Potato Pie brings the sweet scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filling the air. The laughter of loved ones fills the room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. There’s something truly special about a homemade sweet potato pie—it was a staple at our family gatherings and a cherished tradition.
Now, as I’ve grown older, I want to recreate those beloved flavors and memories. This desire has only grown stronger.
Whipping up a from-scratch sweet potato pie from fresh produce can seem daunting. Especially during the busy holiday season. But fear not, this candied yams sweet potato pie recipe offers a simple and delicious solution.
By using canned sweet potato chunks or puree, you can enjoy all the warmth and richness of a homemade pie. This is with a fraction of the effort.
Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving feast or planning a cozy family gathering, this recipe will help you create a showstopping sweet potato pie. It will have your guests raving. From the buttery, flaky crust to the perfectly spiced filling, every bite will transport you to the heart of Southern cuisine.
So gather your loved ones, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into this comforting and nostalgic dessert together.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways : Candied Yams Sweet Potato Pie
- This sweet potato pie recipe offers a simple and time-saving approach to a classic Southern dessert.
- The recipe uses canned sweet potato chunks or puree, making it perfect for busy holiday seasons.
- The candied yams sweet potato pie is a versatile dessert suitable for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special family gathering.
- This recipe captures the warm and comforting flavors of traditional Southern sweet potato pie.
- The recipe provides a delicious way to recreate cherished family memories and traditions.
Introduction to Southern Sweet Potato Pie Tradition
Sweet potato pie is a treasured dessert in the South, especially in African American homes. It comes from the creativity of enslaved Black Americans who made their own pie. Today, soul food classics like southern sweet potato pie show the resilience and creativity of African Americans. They have greatly influenced American food.
Origins and Cultural Significance
The sweet potato thrived in the South’s warm climate. It became a key food for Black people, both enslaved and free. By the 1700s, the British were using sweet potatoes in their desserts, starting the holiday tradition of sweet potato pie in America.
Enslaved African Americans made a crustless sweet potato dessert with molasses and spices. This early pie evolved into the creamy, spice-filled pie we love today.
Why This Recipe Stands Out : Candied Yams Sweet Potato Pie
This southern sweet potato pie recipe is special because of its perfect mix of flavors and textures. It uses both fresh and canned sweet potatoes for sweetness and ease. The spice blend, with cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, makes the pie smell amazing. Adding a candied topping or marshmallows makes it even more decadent.
“Sweet potato pie is a tradition passed on from generation to generation in African American celebrations, and nostalgia plays a huge factor in its popularity within the culture.”
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Candied Yams Sweet Potato Pie
Making a delicious candied yams sweet potato pie begins with picking the right ingredients. This classic Southern dessert needs a mix of sweet and savory to taste just right. Let’s look at what makes this pie a holiday favorite.
The pie’s heart is the sweet potato, or “yam” in the South. It uses 29 oz of canned sweet potatoes for ease and consistency. A generous 1/4 cup of melted salted butter adds a creamy base.
The filling balances sweetness with brown and white sugar. It uses 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of white sugar. This mix gives the pie a unique flavor. 1/2 cup of evaporated milk makes the filling silky and indulgent.
- 3 pounds of garnet or ruby sweet potatoes (yams), peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
- 29 oz of canned sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup of melted salted butter
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of white sugar
- 1/2 cup of evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
The recipe uses 2 large eggs as a binder. 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract add a hint of sweetness and aroma. Lastly, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg add warmth and depth.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a canned sweet potato pie recipe that’s full of Southern flavor and will please your taste buds.
Choosing and Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
Choosing the right sweet potatoes is key to making a great candied yams sweet potato pie. You can pick fresh sweet potatoes or canned yams. Each has its own benefits.
Fresh vs Canned Sweet Potatoes
Fresh sweet potatoes are the top choice for a true Southern-style pie. Look for Beauregard, Jewel, and Garnet varieties. They have a rich, sweet taste that’s perfect for this dessert. But, canned yams are also good. They’re already cooked and easy to use.
Best Cooking Methods : Candied Yams Sweet Potato Pie
For fresh sweet potatoes, baking, boiling, or microwaving works best. These methods make them soft and tender. Roasting is also great. It adds less water, making the filling fluffier and more flavorful.
Proper Texture Achievement : Candied Yams Sweet Potato Pie
To get a smooth filling, mash or puree the sweet potatoes well. Use a potato masher or food processor. This removes any stringy bits, making the filling smooth and creamy.
| Characteristic | Fresh Sweet Potatoes | Canned Yams |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Rich, sweet, and authentic | Slightly less intense flavor |
| Texture | Fluffy and creamy when properly mashed | Softer and more uniform texture |
| Preparation | Requires baking, boiling, or microwaving | Pre-cooked and ready to use |
| Convenience | Requires more time and effort | Faster and more convenient |
Making the Perfect Pie Crust
Making a homemade pie crust might seem hard, but it’s easier than you think. With the right steps, you can make a flaky, buttery crust. This will make your Candied Yams Sweet Potato Pie even better. The secret is using cold butter and shortening together for the best taste and texture.
First, mix flour, salt, and a bit of sugar in a big bowl. Then, cut in the cold butter and shortening with a pastry cutter or forks until it looks like coarse crumbs. Add cold water slowly, mixing just until the dough comes together. Don’t overmix to avoid a tough crust.
Once the dough is formed, shape it into a disc. Wrap it in plastic and chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes. This step relaxes the gluten, making the dough easier to roll out and preventing it from shrinking while baking.
When you’re ready to make your pie, flour a clean surface and roll the dough to a 12-inch circle, about 1/8 inch thick. Place the dough in a 9-inch pie plate, pressing it into the bottom and sides. Trim the edges, leaving a 1-inch overhang, and crimp the edges for a nice pattern.
If you’re in a hurry or prefer an easier option, you can use a store-bought pie crust. Just pick a high-quality one that will match the creamy filling of your Candied Yams Sweet Potato Pie.
“The perfect pie crust is the foundation for a truly memorable dessert. It’s the canvas that allows the sweet, velvety filling to shine.”
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Unsalted butter, chilled and cubed | 1/2 cup |
| Butter-flavored shortening, chilled | 1/2 cup |
| Cold water | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Granulated sugar | 1 teaspoon |
For a flaky homemade pie crust, keep all ingredients cold and handle the dough gently. With practice, you’ll make homemade pie crusts that will wow your friends and family. They’ll perfectly complement the rich, flaky pie crust recipe of your Candied Yams Sweet Potato Pie.
Creating the Sweet and Creamy Filling
The secret to a delicious sweet potato pie filling is finding the right mix of flavors and textures. Start by roasting 2 cups of fresh sweet potatoes until they’re soft. Then, mash them until they’re light and fluffy.
Next, mix in the sweet potato pie filling ingredients. These include 3/4 cup of sugar, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of evaporated milk, 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a mix of spices. The spices are 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of ginger.
Mixing the filling is key. Blend the ingredients until they’re smooth and silky. This makes the pie’s texture iconic and irresistible. For more flavor, try a homemade spice blend for sweet potato pie.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed | 2 cups |
| Sugar (white or brown) | 3/4 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Evaporated milk | 1/2 cup |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tablespoons |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Ground ginger | Pinch |
Now that the sweet and creamy filling is ready, you’re almost there. You’re just one step away from enjoying a slice of homemade Candied Yams Sweet Potato Pie perfection.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Making the perfect sweet potato pie is simpler than you think. Just follow these easy steps to make a wonderful holiday dessert. It will surely impress your loved ones.
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Next, blind bake the pie crust for 10 minutes. This makes it crisp and flaky. Use parchment paper and pie weights or dried beans to keep it flat.
- In a big bowl, mix together 2 cups of mashed sweet potatoes, 1 1/4 cups of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 1/4 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 3 teaspoons of bourbon (optional), 11 tablespoons of room temperature diced or sliced butter, 2 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well mixed and smooth.
- Then, pour the sweet potato filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
- Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes. It’s done when the center is set and it looks puffy. It will settle as it cools.
- To check if the pie is done, insert a knife into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready.
- Let the pie cool completely before you slice and serve it. This ensures the filling sets right.
By using these baking tips, you’ll make a delicious and authentic sweet potato pie. It will be the star of your holiday gathering.
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 5 minutes | 55 minutes | 1 hour |
“This recipe is a true Southern classic that will transport you to the heart of the Carolinas. The perfect balance of sweetness and spice is sure to delight your taste buds.”
Adding the Signature Candied Topping
Make your candied sweet potato pie even better with a delicious topping. You can choose from a fluffy marshmallow topping or a rich brown sugar glaze.
Marshmallow Variation
Top your marshmallow-topped yams with mini marshmallows for extra sweetness and texture. Just before baking ends, spread the marshmallows over the pie. Bake until they’re golden and puffed.
Brown Sugar Glaze Option
For a shiny, caramelized look, try a brown sugar glaze on your candied sweet potato pie. Mix melted butter with brown sugar, then drizzle it over the cooled pie. As it chills, the glaze will set, adding a tasty topping.
Choose your topping wisely, but make sure the pie cools first. This step helps the topping stick well and doesn’t mess with the sweet potato’s flavor. With a bit of creativity, your candied sweet potato pie will be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Enjoying a delicious sweet potato pie is even better with the right storage and make-ahead tips. Follow these simple steps to keep your how to store sweet potato pie fresh and tasty. Whether you’re serving it right away or baking ahead for the holidays, these tips will help.
For leftover slices, store them in the fridge, covered, for up to 5 days. You can also make this make-ahead dessert a day early and chill it until serving time. Just let the pie come to room temperature before enjoying for the best taste and texture.
For longer storage, freeze individual sweet potato pie slices for up to 4 months. Wrap each slice in plastic or foil, then store in a sealed container or bag. Thaw the slices in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to serve.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator (covered) | Up to 5 days |
| Freezer (individual slices) | Up to 4 months |
By using these easy how to store sweet potato pie and make-ahead dessert tips, you can enjoy this classic Southern treat for weeks. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday meal or just want a slice whenever you want, these storage tips will keep your sweet potato pie perfect.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This candied yams sweet potato pie is perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday. It goes great with many traditional dishes. Try it with roasted turkey, pineapple-glazed ham, Southern fried chicken, or whole roasted chicken for a memorable feast.
Holiday Menu Integration
For a perfect dining experience, pair the sweet potato pie with Southern classics. Think collard greens, black-eyed peas, red beans, macaroni and cheese, and cornbread dressing. Refresh your guests with homemade eggnog, spiced apple cider, or Southern sweet tea. For adults, moscato or Hennessy spiced eggnog make great pairings.
Complementary Desserts
- Pair the sweet potato pie with classic pumpkin pie or pecan pie for a diverse and indulgent dessert selection.
- Top each slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce for an extra touch of richness.
- Serve with scoops of vanilla ice cream or buttery pecan ice cream for a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
By adding this candied yams sweet potato pie to your holiday menu ideas, you’ll make your thanksgiving desserts unforgettable. It pairs well with many dishes and desserts, making your feast special.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Baking the perfect sweet potato pie is a fun challenge. We’ve got tips to help you fix common problems. This way, you can make a delicious pie every time.
Stringy Texture
Undercooked sweet potatoes can make the filling stringy. Make sure to mash or puree them until they’re smooth. Roasting or boiling them until very soft will help.
Overly Sweet Filling
Is your pie too sweet? You can adjust the sugar to taste. Start with less and add more if needed. Adding sour cream or buttermilk can also balance the sweetness.
Cracks in the Pie
Cracks often come from overbaking. Watch the pie closely and don’t overdo it. Also, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
| Common Sweet Potato Pie Problems | Solutions |
|---|---|
| Stringy Texture | Thoroughly mash or puree the sweet potatoes until smooth and creamy |
| Overly Sweet Filling | Adjust sugar to personal taste, balance with tangy ingredients |
| Cracks in the Pie | Avoid overbaking, use room temperature ingredients |
Follow these tips to bake a perfect sweet potato pie every time. Enjoy your tasty holiday treat!
Conclusion
This candied yams sweet potato pie recipe is a mix of Southern cooking and modern ease. It’s a perfect choice for holidays or special events. Its rich taste and creamy texture make it a family favorite.
The southern dessert tradition of sweet potato pie has been loved for many years. This recipe brings that tradition to life. Enjoying a slice at a festive event or as a cozy treat is always a pleasure.
Try this recipe to bring Southern flavors to your desserts. Enjoy the sweetness and creamy texture. Let this pie become a special part of your family’s traditions.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in this candied yams sweet potato pie recipe?
The main ingredients are sweet potatoes, evaporated milk, and butter. You’ll also need white and brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt are used for flavor. A frozen deep dish pie crust makes it easy to prepare.
Can I use fresh sweet potatoes or do I have to use canned yams?
You can choose between fresh sweet potatoes or canned yams. For fresh, bake, boil, or microwave them until soft. Canned yams just need a rinse before use. The recipe guides you on how to get the right texture with both.
How do I make the perfect pie crust for this recipe?
Use cold butter and butter-flavored shortening for a flaky crust. Mix in flour, salt, vanilla, and sugar. Chill the dough before rolling it out. Or, use a store-bought crust for convenience.
What’s the secret to getting the sweet potato filling nice and creamy?
Mash or blend cooked sweet potatoes until fluffy. Then, mix in eggs, sugar, and spices. Add vanilla, evaporated milk, and butter. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Can I add a candied topping to this sweet potato pie?
Yes, you can add a candied topping. Use marshmallows in the last few minutes of baking for a golden layer. Or, make a brown sugar glaze to drizzle over the cooled pie.
How long can I store leftover sweet potato pie?
Store leftover pie in the fridge, covered, for up to 5 days. You can also refrigerate it a day ahead. Before serving, let it come to room temperature. Freeze individual slices for up to 4 months, thawing in the fridge overnight.
What are some common issues with sweet potato pie and how do I troubleshoot them?
Issues like stringy texture or too sweet filling can be fixed. Stringy texture is solved by thorough mashing. Adjust sugar to taste for sweetness. Cracks in the pie are avoided by not overbaking. Make sure ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
