Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

The Creamiest Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe Ever

Sinking your fork into a luscious buttermilk sweet potato pie that whispers comfort with every bite.

Southern kitchens have long celebrated this delectable dessert as a treasured classic.

Creamy orange hues peek through a golden, flaky crust promising incredible flavor depth.

Subtle spices dance alongside smooth sweet potato notes, creating a magical harmony.

Grandmothers across the South perfected this recipe through generations of loving care.

Rich buttermilk adds a tangy complexity that makes this pie unforgettable.

One slice might just become your new favorite holiday tradition.

Come experience a dessert that turns simple ingredients into pure magic.

Flavor Twists on Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie

  • Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Pie: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup and add chopped pecans to the filling for a nutty, rich flavor profile.
  • Coconut Cream Sweet Potato Pie: Incorporate shredded coconut into the mixture and top with coconut whipped cream for a tropical-inspired dessert.
  • Bourbon-Spiced Sweet Potato Pie: Add a splash of bourbon to the filling and increase warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a more complex, adult-friendly version.
  • Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Pie: Use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.

FAQ for Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Lovers

  • What makes buttermilk special in this sweet potato pie recipe?

Buttermilk adds a delightful tangy flavor and helps create an incredibly smooth, creamy texture that makes this pie extra rich and tender.

  • Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned sweet potatoes work perfectly and save you time. Just make sure to drain them well and mash them thoroughly before mixing into the pie filling.

  • Why do I need multiple types of sugar in this recipe?

The combination of granulated and brown sugar provides deeper flavor complexity. Brown sugar adds a rich molasses note while granulated sugar ensures the perfect sweetness level.

  • How do I know if my pie is fully baked?

Look for a golden brown top and gently shake the pie – the center should be slightly firm but not liquid. When you insert a knife near the center, it should come out clean, indicating the pie is perfectly done.

Why Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Is Classic Southern Comfort

  • Creamy Southern Comfort: Experience a velvety smooth dessert that captures the heartwarming essence of traditional Southern baking with its rich, luxurious sweet potato filling.
  • Quick and Forgiving Technique: Enjoy an incredibly simple recipe that requires minimal prep time and welcomes beginner bakers, with straightforward mixing and foolproof steps that guarantee delicious results every single time.
  • Seasonal Spice Celebration: Indulge in a harmonious blend of warm autumn spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger that transform ordinary sweet potatoes into an extraordinary dessert bursting with cozy, nostalgic flavors perfect for holiday gatherings.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Delight in a dessert that works wonderfully for multiple occasions – from casual family dinners to elegant potlucks – and can be easily dressed up with a dollop of whipped cream or served in its pure, comforting form.

What Goes into Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie

Pie Crust:
  • Pie Crust: Flaky base that holds the sweet potato filling, store-bought or homemade works well, ready-made options save time.
Sweet Potato Base:
  • Sweet Potatoes: Smooth, creamy foundation of the pie, orange varieties offer rich color and sweet flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and help caramelize the filling, adds depth of flavor.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Bind the filling and create a custardy texture, help the pie set properly.
  • Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and moisture, creates a tender and light filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor, provides warm aromatic notes.
  • Melted Butter: Adds richness and helps blend ingredients smoothly.
Spices and Seasonings:
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger: Classic warm spices that complement sweet potato, create depth and traditional pie flavor.
  • Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall taste profile.

How to Bake Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Like a Pro

Step 1: Prepare Oven And Pie Crust

Warm up your oven to 350°F. Gently place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring it sits perfectly. Set the crust aside while you prepare the magical filling.

Step 2: Create Sweet Potato Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine:
  • Mashed sweet potatoes
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Melted butter

Whisk these ingredients together until they transform into a smooth, creamy mixture that looks like sunshine in a bowl.

Step 3: Introduce Liquid Ingredients

Pour into the sweet potato mixture:
  • Eggs
  • Buttermilk
  • Vanilla extract

Stir everything with love until the ingredients dance together harmoniously.

Step 4: Sprinkle Aromatic Spices

Fold in these flavor-boosting companions:
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Ginger
  • Salt

Mix thoroughly so each spoonful will burst with warmth and comfort.

Step 5: Fill The Pie Crust

Carefully transfer the luscious filling into the waiting pie crust. Use a spatula to create a smooth, even surface that looks like a perfect golden landscape.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Slide the pie into the preheated oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the filling sets completely. You’ll know it’s ready when a knife comes out clean and the top turns a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 7: Cool And Celebrate

Allow the pie to cool completely. This waiting period lets the flavors settle and intensify. When ready, slice and serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Top Tips for Silky Sweet Potato Pie

  • Boost Sweet Potato Flavor: Roast sweet potatoes instead of boiling to enhance their natural caramelized sweetness and deepen the pie's overall flavor profile.
  • Prevent Soggy Crust: Brush the pie crust with egg white before adding filling to create a protective barrier that keeps the bottom crust crisp and flaky.
  • Smooth Filling Technique: Press mashed sweet potatoes through a fine-mesh sieve to eliminate any stringy fibers and create an ultra-silky, creamy texture.
  • Spice Customization: Adjust spice levels to personal taste by increasing or decreasing cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a more personalized dessert experience.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the pie filling a day in advance and refrigerate to allow spices to meld, resulting in a more complex and rich flavor when baked.

How to Store and Slice Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie

  • Refrigerate Leftovers: Store the sweet potato pie in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain its fresh flavor and texture.
  • Freezing Option: Carefully wrap the cooled pie in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. This preserves the pie's delicious taste for later enjoyment.
  • Reheating Method: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or place the entire pie in a preheated 350F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. The gentle warming helps restore the pie's original creamy consistency.
  • Serving Tip: Let refrigerated or frozen pie come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance its flavor and ensure the best taste experience.

Perfect Matches for Sweet Potato Pie

  • Pair with Creamy Coffee Companions: Serve this sweet potato pie alongside a rich, smooth latte or cappuccino. The warm spices in the pie beautifully complement the coffee's deep, roasted flavors, creating a harmonious dessert experience.
  • Match with Spiced Bourbon Delight: Pour a neat bourbon with subtle caramel and vanilla notes to enhance the pie's warm spices. The whiskey's complexity will highlight the sweet potato's natural sweetness and bring out the pie's rich undertones.
  • Chill with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Top the warm pie slice with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream. The cool, smooth texture contrasts perfectly with the pie's warm spices, creating a delightful temperature and flavor balance that'll make taste buds dance.
  • Sip Cinnamon-Infused Chai: Enjoy a cup of spiced chai tea that mirrors the pie's warming cinnamon and nutmeg notes. The tea's aromatic spices will echo the pie's flavor profile, making each bite and sip a cozy, comforting moment.
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Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie Recipe


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4.6 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy buttermilk sweet potato pie delivers Southern comfort with silky smooth filling and flaky crust. Spiced with warming cinnamon and nutmeg, this classic dessert invites you to savor a slice of homemade happiness.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 9-inch pie crust (pre-made or homemade), unbaked
  • 1.5 cups (360 milliliters) cooked and mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 0.5 cup (120 milliliters) buttermilk
  • 0.5 cup (120 milliliters) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

Sweeteners:

  • 0.75 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
  • 0.25 cup (50 grams) brown sugar, packed

Spices and Flavoring:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 0.125 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Carefully arrange the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring smooth edges and crimped borders. Position the oven rack in the center and warm to 350F (175C).
  2. Transform cooked sweet potatoes into a velvety puree, breaking down any stubborn chunks with a fork or potato masher until perfectly smooth and creamy.
  3. Incorporate granulated and brown sugars into the sweet potato puree, whisking vigorously to create a luscious, caramel-like consistency that eliminates any potential graininess.
  4. Gently fold melted butter into the sweet potato mixture, creating a rich and glossy base that will provide depth to the pie’s overall flavor profile.
  5. Crack eggs into a separate bowl, beating them until they become light and frothy before integrating them into the sweet potato blend to ensure even distribution and a silky texture.
  6. Pour buttermilk and vanilla extract into the mixture, stirring with deliberate, sweeping motions to marry all ingredients into a harmonious filling.
  7. Sprinkle ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt across the surface, folding carefully to distribute spices evenly and create a complex, aromatic flavor.
  8. Transfer the filling into the prepared pie crust, using a spatula to smooth the surface and eliminate any potential air pockets or uneven areas.
  9. Slide the pie into the preheated oven, rotating midway through baking to ensure uniform golden-brown coloration and consistent setting of the custard-like filling.
  10. Verify doneness by inserting a knife near the center – it should emerge clean with minimal moisture and the pie’s surface should appear slightly puffed and golden.
  11. Remove from oven and allow the pie to rest at room temperature, permitting the filling to stabilize and develop a perfect, creamy consistency before serving.
  12. Garnish with a delicate dollop of freshly whipped cream just before presenting, adding a luxurious finishing touch to this classic dessert.

Notes

  • Swap regular flour for gluten-free alternatives to make this pie suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Use a food processor to achieve ultra-smooth sweet potato puree, ensuring a silky, creamy texture in every bite.
  • Consider roasting sweet potatoes instead of boiling to enhance their natural caramelized sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • Test pie doneness by gently shaking the dish – a slight wobble in the center indicates perfect custard-like consistency.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 346
  • Sugar: 27 g
  • Sodium: 100 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 73 mg
Jenna Stewart

Jenna Stewart

Head Chef & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-Table Cooking; Seasonal Menu Development; Visual Plating Techniques; Flavor Layering and Simple Prep Hacks.

Education

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern techniques, global cuisines, and flavor development, combined with real-world experience in restaurant operations, business management, and industry internships.

Jenna Stewart is the inventive spirit behind many of our standout dishes at Pro of Delicious Creations. A proud graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, she built her skills mastering both classic recipes and fresh, modern twists.

Now, Jenna celebrates the beauty of seasonal, local ingredients, often sourced from her garden and nearby markets, to create recipes that are bursting with flavor yet easy to follow. When she’s not experimenting in the kitchen, Jenna loves exploring nature on hikes and discovering new treasures at local co-ops.

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