In the world of Southern desserts, few recipes feel as comforting, nostalgic, and deeply rooted in heritage as Sweet Potato Pie and Buttermilk Pie. Each one has its own loyal fanbase—sweet potato pie for its earthy richness and velvety texture, and buttermilk pie for its custardy sweetness and old-fashioned charm. But when the two are combined into one dessert, something truly magical happens.
Classic Sweet Potato & Buttermilk Pie blends the best qualities of both pies into a single, beautifully balanced creation. The sweet potato brings warmth, depth, and a hint of spice, while the buttermilk adds brightness, tang, and a silky custard finish. The result is a pie that’s familiar and surprising, rustic yet refined, and perfect for any holiday table, Sunday dinner, or cozy night at home.
Why Sweet Potato and Buttermilk Belong Together
This pie works so well because the flavors naturally complement each other:
Sweet Potatoes
Naturally sweet and creamy, sweet potatoes offer a hearty, comforting base with a mellow richness.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk adds a slight tang that cuts through the sweetness, keeping the filling balanced and bright.
Combined
Together, they create a custard that’s smooth but structured, sweet but not heavy, and layered with warm spices that feel like autumn in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust
-
1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell (homemade or store-bought)
For the Sweet Potato Filling
-
1 ½ cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes
-
½ cup granulated sugar
-
½ cup brown sugar
-
3 large eggs
-
½ cup buttermilk
-
¼ cup melted butter
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
½ teaspoon cinnamon
-
½ teaspoon nutmeg
-
¼ teaspoon ginger (optional)
-
Pinch of salt
For Topping (Optional)
-
Whipped cream
-
Cinnamon sugar
-
Toasted pecans











