A true taste of Southern tradition, this Southern Sweet Potato Pie is rich, creamy, and kissed with warm spices. Whether you’re making it for a holiday table or a cozy weekend treat, this pie brings comfort in every bite. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes shines through, balanced by hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.
What sets this pie apart is its silky smooth filling paired with a flaky, buttery crust. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug—nostalgic and satisfying. Served with a dollop of whipped cream or even a drizzle of caramel, it’s always a crowd favorite.
What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Should I Use?
Look for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like Beauregard or Jewel. They’re naturally sweet, creamy when cooked, and perfect for pie. Roasting them deepens the flavor, but boiling works fine in a pinch.
Ingredients for the Southern Sweet Potato Pie
- 1 1/2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (from about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

How To Make the Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Step 1: Prep Your Sweet Potatoes
Peel and cube sweet potatoes, then boil until fork-tender (about 20 minutes). Drain and mash until completely smooth.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, sugar, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until silky and fully blended.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–60 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool for at least an hour before slicing. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
How to Serve and Store This Sweet Potato Pie
Serve this pie on its own or with a generous spoonful of whipped cream. For a more decadent touch, add a drizzle of maple syrup or caramel sauce. It’s a delightful ending to any meal, especially during the fall and winter months.
To store, cover the pie tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze slices individually wrapped for longer storage. Let thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make the filling extra smooth?
Use a food processor or electric mixer to blend the filling thoroughly.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, just make sure they’re plain and drained. Avoid any canned yams in syrup.
What crust works best?
A buttery, flaky homemade crust is ideal, but store-bought works too.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! It can be made a day or two in advance and kept refrigerated.
How can I reheat leftover pie?
Warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or heat the whole pie at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Want More Pie Ideas with a Twist?
If this Southern Sweet Potato Pie hits the spot, you’ll love exploring these other flavor-packed pie and dessert favorites:
- Try the Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a fruity-chocolate fix.
- The Nutella French Toast Casserole doubles as a breakfast or dessert.
- These Irresistible Pecan Pie Bites are bite-sized but big on flavor.
- You can’t miss the cozy Brown Sugar Maple Cookies for another fall dessert option.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this pie to your Pinterest board so you can revisit it anytime!
And if you give it a try, drop a comment to let me know how it went. Did you stick to the classic version or add your own twist? Maybe a splash of bourbon or a pecan topping?
I’m always curious to see your delicious takes! You can find more recipes like this one on my Pinterest page.

Southern Sweet Potato Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Southern Sweet Potato Pie is a classic dessert with a silky, spiced filling made from real sweet potatoes and a flaky crust. Perfect for holidays or any time you crave a cozy slice of Southern tradition.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup evaporated milk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Instructions
1. Peel and cube sweet potatoes, then boil until fork-tender (about 20 minutes). Drain and mash until completely smooth.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, sugar, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until silky and fully blended.
3. Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–60 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
5. Let the pie cool for at least an hour before slicing. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Notes
Use a food processor for the creamiest filling.
Let the pie cool fully before slicing for clean cuts.
You can freeze the pie for up to 2 months if tightly wrapped.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: sweet potato pie, southern dessert, holiday pie
