If you ask me, sweet potato pie and pecan pie are two of the best classic desserts—so why not combine them into one irresistible treat? This Sweet Potato Pecan Pie brings together the silky smooth texture of sweet potato pie with the rich, caramelized crunch of pecans, making it the ultimate holiday (or anytime) dessert.
The warm cinnamon, ginger, and cloves in the filling give it that cozy, spiced flavor, while the buttery pecan topping adds a toasty, nutty sweetness that takes it over the top.
This pie is perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or just a weekend treat when you’re craving something comforting and nostalgic. The sweet potatoes make the filling creamy and naturally sweet, while a touch of brown sugar and butter adds depth and richness.
And let’s talk about that pecan layer—golden, slightly crunchy, and beautifully caramelized; it’s what makes this pie truly special.
What’s so Special About This Dish?
- The best of both worlds. It’s the perfect fusion of sweet potato pie and pecan pie in one!
- That smooth, spiced filling. The sweet potatoes make it rich and velvety with just the right amount of spice.
- A buttery, caramelized pecan topping. Adds just the right crunch and nutty sweetness.
- It’s easier than you think! There are no fancy techniques; just mix, pour, and bake.
- Perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s the holidays or just a weekend dessert, this pie always feels special.
Sweet Potato Pecan Pie Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- 9-inch pie dish
- Fork (to test potatoes)
- Broiler (for pecan topping)
Ingredients
- 1 9 inch unbaked pie crust
- 2 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup white sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 ⅔ cups light cream
- 3 tablespoons butter softened
- ⅔ cup packed brown sugar
- ⅔ cup chopped peca
Instructions
Bake the sweet potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork and bake until soft (40-50 minutes). Let cool, then peel and mash until smooth.
Make the sweet potato filling:
- Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and mashed sweet potatoes.
- Stir in white sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and light cream until well combined.
- Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust.
Bake the pie:
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the edge comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack.
Make the caramelized pecan topping:
- In a small bowl, mix butter, brown sugar, and chopped pecans.
- Spoon over the cooled pie evenly.
- Broil 5 inches from heat for about 3 minutes, until bubbling. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Let cool before serving.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 519kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 61g |
| Cholesterol | 91g |
| Fat | 29g |
| sugar | 40g |
| Protein | 6g |
Top 10 Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Pie with Caramelized Pecan Topping!
- Roast, Don’t Boil – Baking sweet potatoes enhances their natural sweetness and keeps them from becoming watery.
- Smooth Texture Matters – For the silkiest filling, mash the sweet potatoes thoroughly or use a food processor to remove lumps.
- Room Temperature Ingredients – Let the eggs, cream, and butter sit at room temperature before mixing to create a smooth, even batter.
- Don’t Overmix – Whisk the filling just until combined to prevent excess air, which can cause cracks in the pie.
- Preheat the Oven Properly – A consistent oven temperature ensures even baking and prevents a soggy crust.
- Protect the Crust – Cover the edges with foil or a pie shield halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.
- Check for Doneness – The center should jiggle slightly when the pie is done. Overbaking can make the filling dry and dense.
- Cool Before Adding Topping – Let the pie cool completely before adding the caramelized pecan topping to prevent it from melting into the filling.
- Watch the Broiler – The pecan topping can burn quickly, so keep a close eye while broiling for that perfect caramelized crunch.
- Chill for Best Flavor – Let the pie rest for a few hours (or overnight) in the fridge before serving to enhance the flavors and set the texture.
Joe Miller is the passionate founder of Food Landscape Insight, where he shares his love for cooking and culinary experiences. Growing up in a family-run diner, Joe was immersed in the vibrant world of food from an early age. The kitchen became his canvas, and food, his way of storytelling.
Through years of experimentation and learning, Joe honed his skills and started his blog to inspire others to embrace the joy of cooking. Each recipe he shares is a blend of tradition, creativity, and the heartfelt memories that food brings to life, all with the aim of fostering a deeper connection to food.
