Double crusted sweet potato pie is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed by many for generations. This delicious pie is made with a flaky crust and a sweet, creamy filling that is packed with the warm flavors of sweet potatoes and spices. It is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it be a holiday feast or a simple family dinner.
Table of Contents
The origins of sweet potato pie can be traced back to the Southern United States, where sweet potatoes have been a staple ingredient for centuries. The pie was originally made with a single crust and a simple filling of mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, and spices. Over time, the recipe evolved to include a second crust, which added an extra layer of texture and flavor to the dessert. Today, double crusted sweet potato pie is a beloved dessert that is enjoyed by people all over the world.
History of Double Crusted Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet potato pie has a rich history in the United States, particularly in the Southern region. The sweet potato, which is native to South America, was introduced to Europe in the 16th century and later made its way to North America through African slaves. Sweet potato pie quickly became a staple dessert in African American households, and eventually gained popularity among all Americans.
The recipe for sweet potato pie varies regionally and culturally, but generally consists of mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, milk, and spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. Some recipes also include butter or cream for added richness.
Sweet potato pie has been a symbol of African American culture and heritage, and has been featured in literature, music, and film. Notably, James Baldwin’s novel “Go Tell It on the Mountain” features a scene in which a sweet potato pie is baked for a family gathering. The song “Sweet Potato Pie” by James Taylor and Ray Charles also pays homage to the dessert.
Today, sweet potato pie remains a beloved dessert in the United States, particularly during the holiday season. It is often served alongside pumpkin pie and pecan pie, and is enjoyed by people of all backgrounds.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
The star of the show in double crusted sweet potato pie is, of course, the sweet potatoes. It’s best to use fresh sweet potatoes, as opposed to canned or frozen, for optimal flavor and texture. You’ll need about 2 pounds of sweet potatoes, which should yield enough filling for a standard 9-inch pie. Be sure to wash and peel the sweet potatoes before using them.
Crust
The crust for double crusted sweet potato pie can be made using either a traditional pie crust recipe or a graham cracker crust recipe. A traditional crust will provide a more classic feel to the pie, while a graham cracker crust will add a touch of sweetness and a slightly different texture. Whichever crust you choose, you’ll need enough dough to make both a bottom and top crust for the pie.
Spices and Flavorings
To give the sweet potato filling its signature flavor, a blend of warm spices and flavorings is used. Common spices include cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, while flavorings such as vanilla extract and orange zest can also be added for extra depth. The exact amounts of each spice and flavoring will depend on personal preference, but a good starting point is 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of ginger.
Sweeteners
To balance out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and spices, a sweetener is added to the filling. This can be either granulated sugar or brown sugar, or a combination of both. The amount of sweetener used will depend on personal preference and the sweetness of the sweet potatoes, but a good starting point is 1/2 to 3/4 cup of sugar.
Preparation Steps
Making the Dough
To begin making double crusted sweet potato pie, one must first make the dough for the crust. The ingredients for the dough include all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, unsalted butter, and ice water. The butter should be cut into small cubes and chilled before use.
In a large mixing bowl, the flour, sugar, and salt are combined. The chilled butter is then added to the mixture and worked in until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Ice water is then added to the mixture, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together and forms a ball.
The dough is then divided into two equal parts, wrapped in plastic wrap, and chilled in the refrigerator for at least an hour before use.
Preparing the Filling
The filling for double crusted sweet potato pie is made from sweet potatoes, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. The sweet potatoes should be peeled, cubed, and boiled until they are soft.
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, they are mashed in a mixing bowl with the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until they are well combined. The eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract are then added to the mixture and stirred until everything is well incorporated.
Assembling the Pie
To assemble the pie, the chilled dough is rolled out on a floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick. The rolled-out dough is then placed into a 9-inch pie dish and trimmed to fit.
The sweet potato filling is then poured into the pie crust and smoothed out. The second half of the chilled dough is rolled out and placed on top of the filling. The edges of the top and bottom crusts are then crimped together to seal the pie.
Baking Instructions
Double crusted sweet potato pie is baked in a preheated oven at 375°F for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. The pie should be allowed to cool to room temperature before serving. It can be served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Double crusted sweet potato pie is a delicious dessert that can be served on any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to help you enjoy this pie to the fullest:
- Serve warm: This pie tastes best when served warm. You can reheat it in the oven for a few minutes before serving to make the crust crispy and the filling gooey.
- Top with whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top of the pie adds a creamy and fluffy texture to the dessert. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon on top for an extra flavor boost.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side of the pie creates a perfect balance of flavors. The cold and sweet ice cream complements the warm and spicy pie.
- Serve with coffee or tea: A cup of coffee or tea is a classic pairing with any dessert. The bitterness of coffee or the aromatic flavor of tea can cut through the sweetness of the pie and enhance its taste.
- Share with friends and family: Double crusted sweet potato pie is a perfect dessert to share with loved ones. Cut the pie into slices and serve it on a platter for everyone to enjoy.
With these serving suggestions, you can elevate the experience of eating double crusted sweet potato pie and impress your guests with your culinary skills.
Variations
Vegan Options
For those who follow a vegan diet, there are several substitutions that can be made to create a delicious vegan double crusted sweet potato pie. Instead of using butter in the crust, vegetable shortening or coconut oil can be used. In place of eggs, a flax or chia seed egg can be made by mixing ground flax or chia seeds with water. For the filling, coconut milk or almond milk can be used in place of heavy cream to create a creamy consistency.
Gluten-Free Alternatives
For those who avoid gluten, there are several alternatives that can be used in place of traditional wheat flour. A gluten-free flour blend can be used in the crust, or a crust can be made using almond flour or coconut flour. For the filling, cornstarch or arrowroot powder can be used in place of flour as a thickener.
Making these substitutions can result in a tasty double crusted sweet potato pie that is suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Experimenting with different ingredients can lead to unique and delicious variations of this classic dessert.
Nutritional Information
Double crusted sweet potato pie is a delicious dessert that is enjoyed by many. However, it is important to be aware of the nutritional information of this dessert to make informed decisions about its consumption.
One slice of double crusted sweet potato pie (1/8th of a 9-inch pie) contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the recipe and ingredients used. It also contains around 20-25 grams of fat, 35-40 grams of carbohydrates, and 4-6 grams of protein.
Sweet potatoes, the main ingredient in this pie, are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. However, the addition of sugar and butter in the recipe can significantly increase the calorie and fat content.
It is recommended to enjoy double crusted sweet potato pie in moderation as a treat. Consider using healthier substitutes for sugar and butter, such as honey and coconut oil, to reduce the calorie and fat content. Additionally, pairing a slice with a side of fresh fruit or a small scoop of low-fat ice cream can help balance out the nutritional value of the dessert.
Storage and Preservation
After baking a delicious double crusted sweet potato pie, it’s important to properly store and preserve it to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are some tips for storing and preserving your sweet potato pie:
- Allow the pie to cool completely before storing it to prevent condensation from forming, which can make the crust soggy.
- Store the pie in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent air from getting in. This will help prevent the pie from drying out and developing a stale taste.
- Sweet potato pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to store it for longer, consider freezing it.
- To freeze the pie, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
- When you’re ready to eat the frozen pie, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheating the pie in the oven will help restore its texture and flavor.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your double crusted sweet potato pie stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a double crusted sweet potato pie, there are a few common mistakes that should be avoided in order to achieve the best results. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Overworking the Dough
One of the most common mistakes when making pie crust is overworking the dough. This can lead to a tough and chewy crust. To avoid this, be sure to handle the dough as little as possible. Mix the ingredients together until just combined, and then roll out the dough quickly and efficiently.
Not Pre-Baking the Crust
Another mistake that can result in a soggy crust is not pre-baking the bottom crust before adding the filling. This is especially important when making a sweet potato pie, as the filling can be quite moist. Pre-baking the crust will help to ensure that it stays crisp and flaky.
Overfilling the Pie
It can be tempting to fill the pie to the brim with sweet potato filling, but this can cause the pie to overflow and make a mess in the oven. Be sure to leave a little bit of room at the top of the crust to allow for expansion during baking.
Not Letting the Pie Cool
Finally, it’s important to let the pie cool completely before slicing into it. Cutting into a hot pie can cause the filling to ooze out and make a mess. Letting the pie cool for at least an hour will help to ensure that the filling sets properly and the pie slices cleanly.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a delicious and impressive double crusted sweet potato pie that will be the highlight of any meal.