Get Ready for My Mom’s Soulful, Simple, and Spectacular Sweet Potato Pie

Thanksgiving is a holiday that holds a special place in my heart for some good soul food cooking, with recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. My momma’s sweet potato pie recipe is one that was a hit at every unit holiday party and FRG function. I have spent over ten years putting my own special touch to it, but there is nothing like the smell of it that grounds me back to my childhood. The smell of butter, cinnamon, sweet potatoes, and vanilla extract has become my call sign to my kiddos that there’s a whole lot of love brewing in the kitchen. If you ever wanted a Southern style pie that tastes like comfort and tradition, this is it.

Ingredients:

• 8 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and rounded
• 1½–2 sticks unsalted butter, chopped
• 2 cups sugar (plus more to taste)
• 4 tsp vanilla extract (or a generous swirl)
• 1–2 Tbsp cinnamon (to taste)
• 1 Tbsp nutmeg (or a good sprinkle)
• ¾ can sweetened condensed milk
• 6 eggs
• ½ cup brown sugar (for topping)
• 4 ready-to-bake pie crusts

Directions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F.
• Place the sweet potatoes in a large pan and layer chopped butter on top.
• Add a small amount of water to the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking.
• Sprinkle about 2 cups of sugar evenly over the potatoes.
• Cook on medium-high heat for 15–20 minutes.
• Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg; stir gently to blend.
• After 10 minutes, taste and add a bit more sugar if needed.
• Continue cooking another 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are soft and syrupy.
• Secret Step: Toward the end of cooking, sprinkle brown sugar on top and let it melt into a glossy caramel glaze.
• Transfer the cooked potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
• Add condensed milk and eggs; stir until smooth and creamy.
• Pour the mixture evenly into 4 pre-crusted pie pans.
• Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the pies are set and slightly golden.
• Cool before slicing and enjoy that brown-sugar-sweet magic in every bite!

This pie is a core memory of where I came from lived out for my children to receive. Whether you’re baking it for your family or your next FRG potluck, this pie is guaranteed to warm hearts.

Insider Tip: After you make it, let it cool before cutting the first slice and serving it up with a spoon full of whipped cream. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

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