Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie

There’s something about Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Imagine the natural sweetness of creamy sweet potatoes blending with the tangy richness of buttermilk, all baked into a buttery, flaky crust. It’s Southern comfort in dessert form—smooth, custardy, and kissed with just the right amount of spice. One bite and you’ll understand why this pie is a time-honored tradition in so many kitchens.

It’s the kind of dessert that makes you linger at the table just a little longer, fork in hand, savoring every bite. Perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something special.

Why You’ll Love Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating memories. It’s the smell of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, the sound of the crust crackling as you slice, and the joy of watching everyone go back for seconds. Here’s why it’s a keeper:

  • Balanced sweetness—not too sugary, so the sweet potato flavor shines.
  • Creamy, custard-like texture thanks to the buttermilk.
  • Versatile for any occasion—equally at home on a holiday table or at a summer cookout.
  • Simple ingredients—most are already in your pantry.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

  • Roast, don’t boil your sweet potatoes for a deeper flavor and less watery filling.
  • Use room-temperature ingredients so the filling blends smoothly.
  • Blind bake your pie crust for a crisp, golden bottom.
  • Don’t overbake—the center should have a slight jiggle when it comes out of the oven.

Ingredients

Pie Filling

  1. 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
  2. 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large)
  3. 1 cup granulated sugar
  4. 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  5. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  6. 3 large eggs, room temperature
  7. 1 cup buttermilk
  8. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  9. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  10. 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  11. 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
  2. Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, both sugars, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
  3. Add wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time. Stir in the buttermilk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
  4. Fill the crust: Pour the filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  5. Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle.
  6. Cool & serve: Let pie cool completely before slicing. Serve as-is or with a dollop of whipped cream.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The buttermilk adds a tangy depth that balances the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while the spices give it a cozy, holiday feel any time of year. The texture is custardy and silky, with a slight firmness that makes slicing a dream.

How to Serve Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie

  • Classic style: With lightly sweetened whipped cream.
  • Decadent style: Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped pecans.
  • Chilled: For a refreshing twist, refrigerate before serving.

Creative Leftover Transformations

  • Sweet Potato Pie Parfait: Layer crumbled pie with whipped cream and crushed cookies in glasses.
  • Pie Milkshake: Blend a slice with vanilla ice cream and milk for a creamy treat.
  • French Toast Topping: Warm leftover slices and serve over buttered French toast.

Additional Tips

  • Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat slices in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.

Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)

Garnish with candied pecans around the edges or pipe rosettes of whipped cream on top. Dust lightly with cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, rustic look. Serve on a cake stand for extra flair.

FAQ’s

  1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes? Yes, but drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
  2. What if I don’t have buttermilk? Use 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar.
  3. Can I make it crustless? Absolutely—just pour into a greased pie dish.
  4. Can I use a store-bought crust? Yes, but homemade will taste richer.
  5. Why roast instead of boil the potatoes? Roasting intensifies flavor and prevents watery filling.
  6. Can I add more spices? Definitely—cloves or allspice can add warmth.
  7. Can I make it ahead? Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
  8. Can I use gluten-free crust? Yes, just follow your preferred recipe.
  9. Why is my pie cracking? It’s overbaked—pull it out when slightly jiggly in the center.
  10. Can I serve it warm? Yes, but let it rest for at least 30 minutes after baking.

Conclusion

This Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie is pure comfort on a plate—creamy, lightly spiced, and bursting with homemade charm. It’s a dessert that feels both nostalgic and special, ready to win a spot in your family’s recipe box for years to come.

Print

Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie

Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie is a classic Southern dessert featuring a silky, spiced sweet potato filling enriched with tangy buttermilk, baked in a flaky pie crust for a perfectly balanced sweet and creamy treat.

  • Author: Ava
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
  • 2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes (about 23 medium sweet potatoes)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  4. Stir in buttermilk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix until fully incorporated and creamy.
  5. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top.
  6. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.
  7. Allow to cool completely before slicing. Serve plain or topped with whipped cream.

Notes

  • For a deeper flavor, roast sweet potatoes instead of boiling them.
  • Ensure sweet potatoes are mashed until completely smooth for the best texture.
  • Pie can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 370
  • Sugar: 37g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: buttermilk sweet potato pie, southern pie recipe, sweet potato dessert

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