How to Make Classic Sweet Potato & Buttermilk Pie
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Bake, boil, or microwave your sweet potatoes until completely tender.
Mash until smooth—no lumps!
A smooth base gives the pie its velvety texture.
2. Preheat and Prepare the Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the unbaked pie crust into a pie dish.
If you like, brush the edges with a little egg wash for shine.
3. Make the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together:
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Mashed sweet potatoes
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Granulated and brown sugar
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Eggs
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Buttermilk
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Vanilla extract
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Melted butter
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Spices and salt
Mix until silky and uniform.
The filling should be pourable but thick, similar to custard.
4. Fill the Pie Shell
Pour the sweet potato mixture into the pie crust.
Use a spatula to smooth the top for even baking.
5. Bake
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until:
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The edges are set
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The center jiggles slightly but is not liquid
If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
Let the pie cool to room temperature—this allows the custard to fully set.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve as-is or add:
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A dollop of whipped cream
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A sprinkle of cinnamon
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A handful of toasted pecans for crunch
The flavors deepen even more after a night in the refrigerator.
Tips for the Best Sweet Potato & Buttermilk Pie
✔ Use freshly cooked sweet potatoes
Canned puree works, but fresh sweet potatoes create richer flavor.
✔ Don’t skip the cooling time
The filling continues to firm as it cools.
✔ Add lemon zest for brightness
A teaspoon of zest lifts the buttermilk tang beautifully.
✔ Blind-bake the crust if you prefer a very crisp bottom
Bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding filling.
Why This Pie Deserves a Spot on Your Table
This classic pie is:
Comforting
Sweet potatoes bring warmth and nostalgia that immediately feels like home.
Balanced
The buttermilk prevents the filling from becoming too sweet or heavy.
Versatile
Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, potlucks, or everyday dessert cravings.
Simple
Despite its layered flavor, the recipe is easy to follow and beginner-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Classic Sweet Potato & Buttermilk Pie is more than a dessert—it’s a reminder of the beauty of Southern cooking: simple ingredients, old-fashioned methods, and flavors that feel like family tradition. With its creamy texture, spiced sweetness, and bright buttermilk tang, this pie offers a harmonious blend of comfort and elegance.
