Sweet Potato Pie with Whipped Cream

Introduction

Sweet Potato Pie with Whipped Cream is a classic Southern dessert that embodies comfort, tradition, and home-cooked goodness. Unlike pumpkin pie, which often steals the spotlight during the holiday season, sweet potato pie brings a richer, earthier sweetness with a naturally creamy texture that feels both indulgent and nourishing. The addition of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla creates a flavor that’s perfectly balanced—neither too sweet nor too heavy.

What truly elevates this dessert is the cloud of freshly whipped cream on top, adding a light and airy contrast to the velvety filling and flaky crust. Every bite feels like a comforting hug, making it an unforgettable centerpiece for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special gathering.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures everything I cherish about comfort food: warmth, tradition, and simplicity. Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness and creaminess that feels wholesome, while the spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla—add just the right amount of cozy flavor. The flaky crust gives it structure, and the soft, pillowy whipped cream on top transforms each slice into pure indulgence.

What makes this recipe extra special is its versatility. It’s a dessert that feels elegant enough for holidays yet approachable enough for a Sunday dinner. It never fails to spark joy at the table—whether it’s met with nostalgic smiles from those who grew up eating it or excitement from first-timers discovering its charm.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Sweet Potato Pie with Whipped Cream is a dessert that deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection. It’s not just a pie—it’s an experience of flavors, textures, and tradition. The sweet potatoes give the filling a naturally smooth and creamy texture that feels lighter than pumpkin pie but just as satisfying. When blended with butter, sugar, and warming spices, the result is a velvety, spiced filling that melts in your mouth.

What makes this pie truly irresistible is the harmony of contrasts: the flaky crust, the silky filling, and the airy whipped cream on top. Each bite offers comfort and elegance at the same time. It’s also a versatile dish—you can serve it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Sunday dinner, or even as a “just because” treat.

Recipe Info

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices
• Calories (per slice with whipped cream): ~320 kcal
• Cuisine: Southern American
• Course: Dessert

Ingredients

For the Pie Filling:

• 2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup evaporated milk (or heavy cream)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground ginger (optional)
• Pinch of salt

For the Crust:

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions (Quick Version)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, vanilla, and spices until smooth.
3. Pour filling into pie crust.
4. Bake 50–55 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Cool completely before serving.
6. Whip cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
7. Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
   • Wash, peel, and cube sweet potatoes. Boil until tender (about 20 minutes) or roast at 400°F (200°C) for 45 minutes. Mash until smooth.
2. Make the Filling
   • In a large bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes with melted butter.
   • Add sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, and spices. Whisk until fully combined and creamy.
3. Prepare the Crust
   • Place unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and flute the edges if desired.
4. Assemble the Pie
   • Pour filling into the crust and spread evenly.
5. Bake
   • Bake for 50–55 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until filling is set (slightly wobbly in the center).
6. Cool the Pie
   • Let pie cool completely on a wire rack (at least 2 hours).
7. Make the Whipped Cream
   • Beat heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Refrigerate until serving.
8. Serve
   • Slice pie and top with fresh whipped cream.

How to Serve

• Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature.
• Top with whipped cream, a dusting of cinnamon, or caramel drizzle.
• Pair with hot coffee, spiced tea, or eggnog for a cozy treat.

Additional Tips

• Roasting sweet potatoes brings out a deeper caramelized flavor.
• Don’t overbake—the filling should be firm but creamy.
• For a richer taste, use brown sugar instead of white sugar.
• Always let the pie cool before slicing; otherwise, it will be runny.

Variations

• Spiced Sweet Potato Pie: Add cloves, allspice, or pumpkin pie spice.
• Nutty Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or candied pecans on top before baking.
• Marshmallow Topping: Instead of whipped cream, top with mini marshmallows and lightly torch.
• Light Version: Use less sugar and substitute evaporated milk with almond milk.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate tightly covered for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap cooled pie in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9-inch pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric hand mixer or whisk
• Cooling rack
• Electric mixer (for whipped cream)

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Pie with Whipped Cream is a timeless dessert that combines tradition, comfort, and flavor in every slice. It’s rich, velvety, and perfectly spiced, making it a standout dish for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you crave something truly special. With its ease of preparation and soul-warming flavor, this pie isn’t just dessert—it’s a memory waiting to be made.