The Sweet Potato Pie That’ll Steal the Show This Thanksgiving
Hey there, y’all! It’s the season of gratitude, golden leaves, and the delightful scent of pies wafting through the kitchen. If you’re looking to steal the spotlight at your Thanksgiving potluck or simply treat your family to something unforgettable, let me introduce you to Sweet Home Alabama Sweet Potato Pie. This classic Southern dessert is rich, creamy, and brimming with love straight from the heart of Dixie, or as we would say Pelham, Alabaster, and Helena!
Why Sweet Potato Pie?
In Alabama, sweet potatoes are a kitchen staple—humble, versatile, and oh-so-sweet. This pie is a nod to our Southern roots and a celebration of homegrown goodness. Plus, it’s a little less sweet than pumpkin pie but just as decadent, with earthy, caramel notes that dance on your taste buds. Perfect for Thanksgiving, it pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream and a warm, grateful heart.
The Alabama Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 8-10):
For the crust (because we’re going full DIY, y’all):
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 4-5 tbsp ice water
For the filling:
- 1 ½ cups mashed Alabama sweet potatoes (roast them for extra flavor!)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- 1 stick melted unsalted butter (cooled slightly)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp allspice
- Pinch of salt
Directions
1. Prep the Sweet Potatoes
- Roast 2-3 medium sweet potatoes at 400°F for about 45 minutes until tender. Let them cool, peel, and mash until smooth. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness—trust me, it’s worth it!
2. Make the Crust
- In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just holds together.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface, place it in a 9-inch pie pan, trim the edges, and crimp them for that homemade charm. Chill for 20 minutes.
3. Blend the Filling
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, sugars, eggs, vanilla, evaporated milk, butter, and spices. Mix until smooth and luscious.
4. Assemble and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the filling is set and jiggles slightly in the center.
- Let the pie cool completely before slicing—it’s worth the wait!
Presentation Tip
Serve with a dollop of homemade whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. For an extra festive touch, garnish with candied pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Image: Foodnetwork.com
Potluck Ready
This pie travels like a dream. Wrap it tightly in foil, pack it in a festive pie carrier, and watch jaws drop when you unveil this golden slice of Alabama magic at the table.
A Sweet Slice of Southern Tradition
From the creamy sweet potato filling to the buttery homemade crust, this pie isn’t just dessert—it’s a love letter to the flavors of Alabama. Whether you’re sharing it with neighbors, bringing it to church, or savoring it at home, this Sweet Potato Pie will have everyone saying, “You made this from scratch?!”
So, go on, grab those sweet potatoes, and let’s make Thanksgiving a little sweeter, Alabama style!
Happy Thanksgiving, y’all! 🦃
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