A true Southern classic, this Mississippi Sweet Potato Pie is silky, spiced, and sweet—made with creamy mashed sweet potatoes, warm cinnamon, and a touch of vanilla, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. With its smooth texture and comforting flavor, it’s a timeless dessert perfect for holidays or any cozy gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No fancy equipment required—just mix, pour, and bake
Perfect for make-ahead holiday baking
Rich, custard-like filling with a golden crust
Ingredients Breakdown:
Filling:
2 oz butter, softened – Adds richness and helps create a smooth, velvety texture.
1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potatoes – The star ingredient, bringing natural sweetness and creaminess.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the pie and balances the earthy sweet potato flavor.
2.5 oz evaporated milk – Provides creaminess and depth without watering down the filling.
1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances flavor with warm, sweet notes.
1 1/2 eggs, beaten – Binds the ingredients; using one full egg and half of another ensures a smooth set.
3/4 tsp cinnamon – Adds subtle warmth and spice to complement the sweet potatoes.
Crust:
1 shallow prepared pie shell or 1/2 of a deep-dish pie shell, unbaked – Provides structure and a flaky contrast to the creamy filling
Tips and Tricks
Don’t overbake—the pie should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when removed
Use canned sweet potatoes if you’re short on time—just make sure they’re not pre-sweetened
Room temperature ingredients mix more smoothly and evenly
Cover crust edges with foil halfway through baking if they brown too quickly
Variations and Customizations
Add a pinch of nutmeg or clove for extra spice
Stir in a tablespoon of bourbon or maple syrup for deeper flavor
Make it dairy-free by swapping butter and milk with plant-based alternatives
Add a pecan streusel topping for a crunchy twist
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm or chilled with:
Fresh whipped cream
A scoop of vanilla ice cream
A drizzle of maple syrup or caramel sauce
Perfect for:
Thanksgiving dinner
Holiday potlucks
Southern-inspired dessert menus
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months
Reheat: Warm in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes or serve chilled
Popular Questions
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can bake it a day in advance and refrigerate overnight. It tastes even better the next day!
Do I need to blind bake the crust?
No need for blind baking—this recipe is designed for an unbaked crust.
What’s the best sweet potato to use?
Look for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like Beauregard or Jewel varieties for the creamiest, sweetest flavor.
