Indulge in the Ultimate Holiday Delight: Homemade Sweet Potato Pecan Pie Recipe

Put a delightful twist on classic Pecan Pie by creating this incredibly rich and satisfying Sweet Potato Pecan Pie. This recipe seamlessly blends two beloved dessert traditions into one show-stopping holiday centerpiece. Each bite offers a harmonious combination of a silky-smooth, spiced sweet potato filling perfectly complemented by a sweet, crunchy, and irresistible pecan topping. It’s truly a must-have for your Thanksgiving feast or a festive Christmas dinner, promising to be a memorable treat for everyone at your table. The comforting aroma alone will fill your home with holiday cheer, making it feel extra special.

This homemade pie recipe brings together the very best of two seasonal favorites: the creamy warmth of sweet potato pie and the delightful crunch of pecan pie. The foundation begins with a perfectly golden pie crust, which cradles a velvety sweet potato filling. This luscious base is then crowned with a rich, caramelized pecan mixture that bakes to a sticky, crunchy perfection. The result is a holiday dessert that truly offers the best of both worlds in every Forkful.

Beyond pies, sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile. We also love incorporating them into other treats like our delicious Sweet Potato Cookies, but for a truly impressive holiday dessert, this pie stands out.

During the busy holiday season, our kitchen is often filled with the wonderful scents of baking, creating many festive pies. While classics like pumpkin pie and decadent chocolate pie are always in rotation, this Sweet Potato Pecan Pie has quickly risen to become one of our family’s most requested and beloved recipes. Its popularity stems from its incredible flavor and surprisingly simple preparation. You can effortlessly make this show-stopping dessert even with a store-bought, pre-made pie crust, saving you valuable time without compromising on taste or quality.

To enhance the experience, serve this irresistible pie warm with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, allowing it to melt slightly over the spiced filling and crunchy topping. Alternatively, a cloud of homemade whipped cream provides a light, airy contrast. The combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients and aromatic spices ensures that this will become a cherished family favorite, year after year. For more delectable pecan-inspired treats, be sure to explore our pecan desserts collection, including the classic Karo Syrup Pecan Pie Recipe and easy Slow Cooker Candied Pecans.

Looking for even more holiday dessert inspiration? Don’t miss our comprehensive collections of Thanksgiving Cake Recipes and fun Thanksgiving Sugar Cookies Recipe, perfect for adding variety to your festive spread.

Can I Make This Recipe With Homemade Crust?

Absolutely! While we love the convenience of a good quality pre-made pie crust for this delicious dessert, you can certainly elevate your Sweet Potato Pecan Pie with a homemade pie crust. Using a homemade crust offers a superior flaky texture and allows you to control the ingredients precisely, adding an extra layer of personalized charm to your holiday baking. Our easy pie dough recipe, requiring only three simple ingredients, delivers a wonderfully flaky and delicious base that perfectly complements the rich filling and topping.

Whether you opt for the time-saving efficiency of a store-bought crust or the rewarding experience of making your own from scratch, rest assured that this sweet potato pecan pie will still be incredibly delicious and a highlight of your holiday meal. The choice is yours, and either way, you’re in for a treat!

Ingredients

Pie Filling Essentials

• Pre-made Pie Crust. The foundation of our pie! Any brand you prefer will work perfectly, providing a convenient and reliable base.
• Sweet Potatoes. We recommend using large, firm, and vibrant sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness is crucial for the pie’s deep, comforting flavor. Baking them ensures a drier, richer puree.
• Eggs. Large and at room temperature. Eggs act as a vital binder, giving the pie its luxurious, custardy texture. Room temperature eggs also blend more smoothly into the filling.
• Brown Sugar. Firmly packed. This provides a deep, molasses-rich sweetness and contributes to the creamy texture of the filling. For a truly homemade touch, try our Homemade Brown Sugar Recipe.
• Granulated Sugar. Balances the sweetness and helps achieve that classic pie flavor profile.
• Butter. Softened at room temperature. Butter adds richness and a velvety mouthfeel to the sweet potato filling, ensuring every bite is decadent.
• Ground Cinnamon and Ground Nutmeg. These warming spices are the heart of the pie, elevating the sweet potato flavor and infusing it with irresistible holiday aromas. Freshly grated nutmeg offers an even more potent flavor.
• Vanilla Extract. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. It acts as a flavor enhancer, balancing the sweetness and spices to create a well-rounded taste.

Pecan Topping Components

• Pecans. Roughly chopped into pieces. The star of the topping! Pecans deliver that satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. You can lightly toast them before chopping for an even deeper, more complex taste.
• Light Brown Sugar. Contributes to the topping’s sticky, sweet, and slightly chewy texture. Need a substitute? See The Best Brown Sugar Substitutes.
• Granulated Sugar. Adds sweetness and helps create the crisp edges of the topping.
• Large Egg. Helps bind the pecan topping ingredients together, ensuring it sets properly and has a lovely texture.
• Light Corn Syrup. Essential for that classic gooey, caramelized texture in the pecan topping.
• Vanilla Extract. Enhances the nutty flavor of the pecans and ties all the topping ingredients together.

Scroll to the bottom of the page for the complete, detailed ingredients list and precise measurements within the recipe card.

Substitutions and Additions

Feel free to customize your Sweet Potato Pecan Pie with these flexible substitutions and delicious additions to suit your taste and pantry availability:

• Corn Syrup Substitute – If you find yourself without corn syrup, fret not! You can easily substitute it with honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that these alternatives will impart a slightly different flavor profile – honey will add a floral note, while maple syrup offers a more robust, earthy sweetness. When using honey or maple syrup, it’s often beneficial to add an extra tablespoon or two of all-purpose flour to your pecan topping mixture. This helps achieve that desired thick, gooey texture that corn syrup naturally provides, ensuring your topping sets beautifully.
• Use Different Nuts – While pecans are traditional and delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with other nuts or a mix! Sliced almonds can add a delicate crunch and buttery flavor, while chopped walnuts offer a slightly more bitter, earthy contrast that can be quite delightful. A combination of pecan halves and other nuts can create a more complex texture and flavor profile for your topping. Lightly toasting any nuts before adding them can also enhance their natural flavors.
• Change the Frozen Pie Crust – As mentioned earlier, opting for a homemade pie crust is a fantastic way to elevate this recipe. If you prefer, challenge yourself by making your own flaky, buttery crust instead of relying on a premade one. Our 3-ingredient pie crust recipe is a simple starting point. Whichever you choose – a convenient store-bought option or a lovingly made homemade crust – this sweet potato pecan pie recipe will still deliver an unforgettable deliciousness.
• Flavor Enhancements – Consider adding a hint of orange zest to the sweet potato filling for a bright, citrusy note that complements the spices beautifully. A tiny splash of bourbon or rum can also deepen the complexity of both the filling and the topping, adding a sophisticated touch perfect for adult palates during the holidays. A pinch of ground ginger or cloves can further enhance the warmth of the sweet potato spices.

How to Make Pecan Sweet Potato Pie: Step-by-Step Guide

Crafting this incredible Sweet Potato Pecan Pie is an enjoyable process. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect, mouthwatering result every time:

• Step 1 – Prepare Sweet Potatoes – Begin by thoroughly washing your sweet potatoes. Use a fork to poke several holes all over each sweet potato. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing them from bursting. For the best flavor and texture, wrap each poked sweet potato individually in aluminum foil. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are completely soft when squeezed. The exact cook time may vary depending on the size of your sweet potatoes; larger ones might need an extra 10-15 minutes. Baking helps to caramelize their natural sugars, intensifying their sweetness.
• Step 2 – Cool and Peel Sweet Potatoes – Once baked, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the oven. Allow them to cool sufficiently so you can handle them comfortably. This cooling process helps them firm up slightly. Once cool enough, remove the foil and then easily peel the skin from the sweet potatoes. The skin should slip off without much effort.

Step 3 – Place in Bowl & Combine First Ingredients – Transfer the peeled, soft sweet potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Using a potato masher or a sturdy fork, mash them thoroughly until very smooth. Then, stir in the room temperature eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well incorporated. This forms the creamy base of your pie filling.

Step 4 – Add Remaining Filling Ingredients – Next, add the melted butter, pure vanilla extract, a pinch of salt (to enhance all flavors), ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to the sweet potato mixture. Continue to stir vigorously or use an electric mixer on low speed until all ingredients are perfectly well combined and the filling is smooth and uniform. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated.

Step 5 – First Bake & Add Pecan Topping – If your pie crust isn’t already in a 9-inch pie pan, place it in one. Pour the prepared sweet potato pie filling into the pie crust. Cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil (this helps prevent the crust edges from browning too quickly). Bake in the preheated oven at 400 degrees F (200°C) for 40-45 minutes. While the sweet potato filling bakes, prepare the pecan topping: in a separate medium bowl, stir together the chopped pecans, the second egg, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined. After the initial baking, carefully remove the pie from the oven, remove the foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes. Then, spoon the pecan mixture evenly over the partially set sweet potato pie filling. Return the pie to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the pie filling is fully set (a slight jiggle in the center is okay) and the pecan topping is beautifully golden brown and caramelized. The edges of the crust should also be golden brown.

Step 6 – Cool, Chill, Slice, and Enjoy – Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely at room temperature for at least 2 hours. This crucial cooling time allows the custard filling to fully set, preventing it from being runny when sliced. For the best texture and clean slices, it’s highly recommended to refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or ideally, overnight. After chilling, your magnificent Sweet Potato Pecan Pie is ready to be sliced and savored!

Storage Tips for Your Pie

Proper storage is essential to keep your Sweet Potato Pecan Pie fresh and delicious. After the pie has completely cooled at room temperature (as instructed in Step 6), cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure the wrap adheres closely to the surface of the pie to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any odors from the refrigerator. Store the covered pie in the refrigerator, where it will maintain its quality and flavor for up to 4-5 days. For the best taste and texture, allow slices to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving, or gently warm them in the microwave.

Can You Freeze Sweet Potato Pecan Pie?

Yes, absolutely! Freezing Sweet Potato Pecan Pie is an excellent way to prepare ahead for busy holiday gatherings or to enjoy a slice of this delicious dessert long after the holidays are over. The pie freezes beautifully without compromising its creamy texture or the delightful crunch of the pecan topping.

To Freeze the Whole Pie: Once the pie has completely cooled and been refrigerated as per storage instructions, wrap the entire pie (still in its pie plate) tightly first with plastic wrap, ensuring no air gaps. Then, wrap it again securely with aluminum foil. This double layer of protection prevents freezer burn.

To Freeze Individual Slices: If you prefer to freeze individual portions, slice the cooled pie first. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about an hour until firm. Once firm, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then in foil. Store the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe airtight container or freezer bag.

Thawing and Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen pie (whole or slices) to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. For best results, gently reheat slices in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps to crisp up the crust and topping slightly. If stored properly, your frozen pie will last for approximately 3 months, making it perfect for holiday meal planning and ensuring you always have a delightful treat on hand.

Expert Tips for a Perfect Pie

Achieving a truly exceptional Sweet Potato Pecan Pie is easy with these insider tips:

• Prepare Sweet Potatoes for Maximum Flavor – You have a few options for cooking your sweet potatoes: baking, boiling, or microwaving. Baking the sweet potatoes, as described in the recipe, is highly recommended as it concentrates their natural sweetness and results in a drier, more flavorful puree. If you choose to boil or microwave, be mindful of excess moisture, which can make your pie filling watery. Always ensure to thoroughly mash the sweet potatoes until no lumps remain before incorporating the other spices for a consistently smooth and delicious filling. Don’t forget to remove the skin after cooking!
• Protect Your Pie During Baking – For the best results and to prevent the crust from over-browning or the top from burning, we recommend covering the pie loosely with aluminum foil while it’s in the oven during the initial baking phase. You can create a “tent” with the foil over the pie to allow for even heat distribution. This technique ensures that the sweet potato filling cooks completely and uniformly without compromising the golden perfection of your pie crust. Remove the foil when you add the pecan topping for the final baking stage.
• Timing is Key for Adding Pecan Topping – It’s crucial to bake the sweet potato pie filling first, allowing it to partially set, before you add the pecan topping. This specific order prevents the pecan topping from sinking into the sweet potato layer and ensures you achieve distinct, beautiful layers and a perfectly gooey, crunchy pecan finish. You’ll know the sweet potato filling is ready for the topping when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Continue baking without the foil once the topping is added, watching closely until the pecan topping is beautifully golden brown and caramelized.
• The Importance of Resting Your Pie – Patience is a virtue, especially with custard-based pies like this one! This is the perfect pie to make ahead of time, as a proper rest is essential. It is best to let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours at room temperature, then refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally, overnight. This crucial resting period allows the filling to fully set and firm up, preventing it from being runny and ensuring clean, beautiful slices. The flavors also meld and deepen during this time, resulting in a superior texture and taste experience.
• Preventing a Soggy Crust: If using a homemade pie crust, consider blind-baking it for about 10-15 minutes before adding the filling. This pre-baking step helps to dry out the crust and create a barrier, significantly reducing the chance of a soggy bottom. For store-bought crusts, ensure the filling isn’t too hot when poured in.
• High-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your pie largely depends on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for fresh, vibrant sweet potatoes, pure vanilla extract, and good quality butter for the most impactful taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Sweet Potato Pecan Pie, with its rich filling and crunchy pecan topping, is delicious on its own, but it can be served in many different ways to truly elevate the dessert experience. We love offering a variety of options to complement its decadent flavors:

• Homemade Whipped Cream – A classic and always welcome addition! You only need two simple ingredients – heavy cream and sugar – to make a light, airy, and perfectly sweet whipped cream. Its delicate texture and fresh flavor provide a beautiful contrast to the rich, dense pie. It tastes infinitely better than store-bought and is worth the few extra minutes.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – For a truly decadent experience, serve a warm slice of pie with a generous scoop of No-Churn Vanilla Ice Cream. The creamy, cold ice cream melting slightly into the warm, spiced pie creates an exquisite hot-and-cold sensation that is simply irresistible. The contrasting temperatures and textures are a pure delight.
• Caramel Drizzle – Elevate your pie with an extra layer of sweetness and sticky goodness by drizzling warm caramel syrup over the top of each slice. The deep, buttery notes of caramel pair wonderfully with both the sweet potato and pecan flavors, adding an elegant touch. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the caramel can create a delightful sweet-and-salty combination.
• A Dusting of Powdered Sugar – For a simple yet elegant presentation, lightly dust the cooled pie with powdered sugar just before serving. It adds a touch of visual appeal and a subtle extra sweetness.
• Pair with Warm Beverages – This pie is wonderfully comforting when enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee, a steaming mug of spiced chai, or a glass of mulled cider, especially on a chilly evening.

More Easy Pie Recipes

If you love this Sweet Potato Pecan Pie, you’ll want to explore more of our fuss-free and delicious pie recipes, perfect for any occasion:

• Salted Caramel Apple Pie Recipe
• Crack Pie Recipe
• Karo Syrup Pecan Pie Recipe
• Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Go ahead and confidently add this Sweet Potato Pecan Pie to your holiday baking list this year. It consistently receives rave reviews and absolutely does not disappoint! We’re confident it will become a new favorite tradition for your family and friends. Please come back and leave a comment and a star rating once you try this incredible recipe – we love hearing your feedback!