Here’s a full recipe profile for Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie, complete with all the requested sections:
Introduction:
Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie is a cozy Southern classic that brings warmth and soul to any table. With its smooth, spiced filling and flaky homemade crust, this pie is a delicious blend of hearty sweet potatoes and the tangy creaminess of buttermilk. It’s an ideal dessert for holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, or anytime you crave old-fashioned comfort.
Origin and Cultural Significance:
Rooted in Southern U.S. culinary traditions, sweet potato pie is often seen as a cultural counterpart to pumpkin pie, especially in African American households. Buttermilk, a staple in Southern kitchens, adds a unique tang that elevates the flavor profile. This pie embodies generations of home baking, resilience, and heritage, making it much more than just a dessert—it’s a reflection of cultural pride and hospitality.
Ingredients Quantity:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 2 tbsp sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 4–5 tbsp ice water
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
Optional Additions:
- ¼ tsp ground ginger or cloves for extra warmth
- Zest of ½ an orange to brighten flavor
- A splash of bourbon or maple syrup for depth
- Top with whipped cream or candied pecans for added texture
Tips for Success:
- Bake or roast sweet potatoes instead of boiling for maximum flavor.
- Chill the pie crust dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.
- Use full-fat buttermilk for a rich, creamy filling.
- Don’t overmix the filling—keep it smooth but not airy.
- Tent pie edges with foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry blender or fork until coarse crumbs form.
- Add ice water, 1 tbsp at a time, just until the dough comes together.
- Form into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll out dough and fit into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp edges and chill while preparing filling.
- Make the Filling:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, buttermilk, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the center is just set and a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Cool completely before slicing.
Description:
This Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie is silky and custardy, with a rustic sweetness and gentle tang from the buttermilk. Hints of cinnamon and nutmeg complement the earthy richness of sweet potato, while the golden, buttery crust adds flaky contrast. Every bite feels like a warm hug from home.
Nutritional Information (approx. per slice, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 340
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugars: 27g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
Conclusion and Recommendation:
This pie is a showstopper that doesn’t require complicated techniques. Its familiar ingredients and heartwarming flavor make it a go-to dessert for gatherings or a quiet night in. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted pecans for added indulgence.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence:
To lighten it up, consider using reduced-fat buttermilk and halving the sugar or using a natural sweetener like maple syrup or coconut sugar. A whole wheat crust can also add fiber and a subtle nutty taste. Either way, this pie proves that comfort food can nourish both body and soul.
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