Method & Instructions: A Labor of Love
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes (The Best Way)
The method of cooking the sweet potatoes is crucial for the deepest flavor. Baking is highly recommended over boiling.
1. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until very tender. Let them cool until easy to handle, then scoop the flesh out of the skins.
2. Mash: Pass the sweet potato flesh through a ricer or food mill for the silkiest texture. Alternatively, mash thoroughly with a potato masher until no lumps remain. You need exactly 2 cups of mashed potato. Let it cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Create the Filling
1. Lower your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour. This prevents the flour from clumping.
3. Add the 2 cups of mashed sweet potato, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to blend until smooth and well-combined.
4. With the mixer on low, slowly stream in the melted butter.
5. The Key Step (Using Divided Milk): Now, with the mixer still on low, gradually pour in only half of the can of evaporated milk. Once incorporated, add the remaining half. This two-step process ensures a smoother, more emulsified filling that bakes evenly without curdling.
6. Mix just until the filling is perfectly smooth and uniform.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
1. Place your chilled pie crust on a baking sheet (this makes it easier to handle).
2. Pour the filling into the unbaked pie shell. Gently tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles.
3. Bake: Place on the center rack of the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 55 to 70 minutes. The pie is done when the edges are set, and the center still has a slight jiggle (like Jell-O) when you gently shake the pan. A knife inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.
4. Cool Completely: This is non-negotiable! Place the pie on a wire rack and allow it to cool to room temperature (about 2 hours). Then, refrigerate for at least 2 more hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set fully.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
1. If desired, make the whipped cream: Chill a bowl and beaters. Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
2. Slice the chilled pie, top with a dollop of whipped cream, and serve.
The Lover’s Guide: Who Adores This Pie?
Sweet Potato Pie lovers are a special breed. They are the ones who:
· Cherish Tradition: They understand this is more than food; it’s a connection to ancestors and family history.
· Seek Comfort: They find a deep, soul-warming solace in its spiced, creamy sweetness.
· Appreciate Authenticity: They choose this robust, earthy pie over more common desserts, valuing its unique character.
· Celebrate Community: They know this pie is the star of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Sunday dinners, bringing people together.
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