Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Combine dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in the butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice water: Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
- Form the dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, trim the edges, and crimp them as desired.
- Blind bake (optional): For a crisper crust, you can blind bake the crust. To do this, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), line the crust with parchment paper, fill it with pie weights or dried beans, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment, and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the sweet potatoes: Peel and slice the sweet potatoes. Place them in a pot of water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Puree the sweet potatoes: In a blender or food processor, puree the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth.
- Combine filling ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Add the pureed sweet potatoes and mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Pie
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Fill the crust: Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake: Bake the pie for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve chilled: For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Garnish: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Pie
- Use fresh sweet potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and texture for the filling.
- Don’t overmix the filling: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, causing the filling to crack.
- Chill the dough: Chilling the pie dough helps prevent it from shrinking during baking.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato Pie is a delicious and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe ensures a smooth, spiced filling and a flaky crust. Enjoy making and savoring this delightful pie with your family and friends!