If you’re searching for a delightful twist on a classic Southern favorite, this Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe is just what you need to elevate your dessert game. Combining the natural sweetness and creamy texture of sweet potatoes with a bright burst of fresh orange juice and zest, this custard pie offers a vibrant flavor profile that feels both comforting and refreshingly unique. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy family gathering, this pie serves up a delicious, smooth custard with warming spices that perfectly balance the citrus notes, making every bite an absolute joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet carefully selected ingredients is essential to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this pie. Each component plays a vital role, from the natural sweetness in the sweet potatoes to the fragrant spices and the refreshing citrus elements.
- Mashed cooked sweet potatoes (1 1/2 cups): The creamy base that provides body and natural sweetness to the custard.
- Orange juice (1/2 cup): Adds a burst of fresh citrus to brighten and enhance the flavor.
- Orange zest (1 tablespoon): Concentrates the orange flavor with its aromatic oils.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the custard perfectly without overpowering.
- Brown sugar, packed (1/2 cup): Adds depth and a subtle caramel note.
- Large eggs (3): Helps set the custard and create a smooth texture.
- Evaporated milk (1/2 cup): Contributes creaminess and richness without heaviness.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/4 cup): Adds silkiness and flavor depth.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall sweetness and aroma.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Provides warm spice notes essential for the classic Southern pie feel.
- Ground nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a subtle spicy nutty warmth.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- Unbaked 9-inch pie crust (1): The buttery foundation that holds all the luscious custard together.
How to Make Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is perfectly hot when the pie is ready to bake, which is crucial for an even, gentle cook that sets the custard without cracking.
Step 2: Mix the Custard Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, fresh orange juice, and orange zest until smooth. Then add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing well to blend the sweetness. Crack in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Next, whisk in evaporated milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, followed by the warm spices — ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt — to create a harmonious flavor profile that feels cozy yet bright.
Step 3: Pour and Bake
Pour your velvety custard mixture into the unbaked 9-inch pie crust, spreading it gently to evenly fill the pie shell. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know the pie is done when the custard is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven too early to prevent cracking or sunken custard.
Step 4: Cool and Set
Once baked, place your pie on a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step allows the custard to fully set and develop its signature silky texture. You can serve the pie at room temperature or chilled, depending on your preference.
How to Serve Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe with a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds an airy, light contrast to the rich custard. For extra flair, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or finely grated orange zest over the whipped cream. Toasted pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup also complement the flavors delightfully.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a simple fruit compote made from berries or spiced pears. For festive occasions, serve it alongside hot mulled cider or spiced tea to warm up the senses.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving individual mini custard pies in tartlet pans for a charming presentation at parties or holiday dinners. You could also layer slices of the pie with fresh orange segments and whipped cream in a clear glass trifle bowl for an impressive, layered dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe, store any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps the flavors meld further while keeping the custard smooth and moist.
Freezing
If you’d like to save your pie for a special occasion later, wrap it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to retain the rich texture.
Reheating
To warm a slice, gently heat it in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10–15 minutes or until just warm. Avoid using the microwave to prevent the custard from becoming rubbery or grainy.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned sweet potatoes can be a convenient option. Make sure they are well drained and mashed smoothly before using for the best texture in your custard pie.
Is it necessary to use evaporated milk?
Evaporated milk adds a rich creaminess without thinning the custard too much. You may substitute with regular milk or cream, but it might slightly alter the texture and richness.
Can this pie be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe suitable for gluten sensitivities while maintaining delicious flavor.
What’s the best way to zest an orange?
The finest zest comes from using a microplane grater. Avoid the white pith beneath the skin as it can be bitter, focusing on just the bright orange outer peel for flavor.
How can I make the custard smoother?
For a silkier filling, blend the mixture in a food processor before pouring it into the crust. This extra step breaks down any lumps and makes for a luxuriously smooth texture.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe is a spectacular way to bring brightness and warmth to your dessert table. Its comforting spices paired with zesty orange make it a memorable treat that everyone will love. Give it a try at your next gathering — it just might become your new favorite pie to share!
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Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously smooth and creamy Orange Sweet Potato Custard Pie combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with bright citrus notes of orange. This Southern-inspired dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring a buttery pie crust filled with a spiced custard mixture flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
- Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, orange juice, and orange zest until well combined. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until the custard mixture is smooth and uniform in texture.
- Fill Pie Crust: Pour the prepared custard mixture into the unbaked 9-inch pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The pie is ready when the custard is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Pie: Remove the pie from the oven and set it on a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing to allow the custard to firm up perfectly.
- Serve: Serve the pie at room temperature or chilled according to preference. Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- This pie can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator to let flavors meld.
- For a creamier texture, blend the filling in a food processor before pouring into the crust.
- Use a graham cracker crust instead of traditional pie crust for a delightful variation.
