Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie

 

Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie – A Creamy Southern Classic Full of Cozy Flavor

Nothing says comfort quite like a homemade sweet potato pie fresh from the oven. This Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie takes the traditional Southern favorite to the next level with rich mashed sweet potatoes, tangy buttermilk, warm spices, and a flaky pie crust. Every slice is smooth, creamy, and packed with comforting homemade flavor.

The buttermilk adds a subtle tang that perfectly balances the sweetness of the potatoes, creating a silky filling that's rich without being heavy. Whether you're baking for the holidays, Sunday dinner, or simply because you're craving a classic dessert, this pie never disappoints.

Flavor & Texture Highlights

• Silky smooth filling
• Warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger
• Rich buttery flavor
• Light tang from buttermilk
• Perfect flaky pie crust

Jump to Section

• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• What You'll Need
• How to Make Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie
• Expert Tips
• Storage
• Serving Ideas
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Classic Southern dessert
• Wonderfully creamy texture
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for Thanksgiving and holidays
• Even better the next day

What You'll Need

Mashed sweet potatoes provide the naturally sweet, velvety base while buttermilk gives the filling its signature richness and slight tang. Butter, eggs, vanilla, brown sugar, and warm spices create a perfectly balanced filling that's smooth and flavorful.

Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Make Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place an unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie plate.

Step 2

In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter until smooth.

Step 3

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4

Stir in the buttermilk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt until the filling is silky smooth.

Step 5

Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top.

Step 6

Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is just set with a slight jiggle.

Step 7

Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. Chill for at least 2 hours for the cleanest slices.

Expert Tips

• Bake the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them for deeper flavor.
• Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother filling.
• Don't overbake—the center should still jiggle slightly.
• Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

How to Store

Cover and refrigerate the pie for up to 4 days.

The pie can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What to Serve With

• Fresh whipped cream
• Vanilla ice cream
• Candied pecans
• Hot coffee
• Spiced chai tea

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pie ahead?

Yes. It's actually even more flavorful after chilling overnight.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes. Drain and mash them well before measuring.

Why use buttermilk?

It creates a richer, creamier filling with a slight tang that balances the sweetness.

How do I know it's done?

The edges should be set while the center has just a slight wobble.

Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix sweet potatoes, sugars, and butter.
3. Add eggs one at a time.
4. Mix in buttermilk, vanilla, spices, and salt.
5. Pour into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 50–60 minutes until just set.
7. Cool completely before slicing.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving if desired.

Notes

This pie tastes even better after chilling overnight. Serve with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra-special finish.

Final Thoughts

Rich, creamy, and filled with warm Southern flavor, Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie is a timeless dessert that's always welcome on the table. Whether you're sharing it during the holidays or enjoying a slice with coffee on a quiet afternoon, it's a recipe you'll find yourself making again and again.