Description
Ingredients:
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie dough)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil sweet potatoes in a pot of water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth.
3. In a bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Roll out the pie crusts and cut out circles to fit into a mini muffin tin, pressing dough gently into the cups.
5. Spoon the sweet potato mixture evenly into each prepared crust.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
7. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 12 mini pies
Tips:
Use a fork to prick the pie crust bottoms slightly before filling to avoid sogginess.
Add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped pecans on top for extra texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect mini sweet potato pies. First, ensure your sweet potatoes are peeled and diced uniformly for even cooking. After boiling and draining, mash them thoroughly until completely smooth—no lumps. While the potatoes cool slightly, prepare your muffin tin by lightly greasing it. When pressing the pie crust circles into the tin, ensure they are snug against the sides and bottom. For the filling, mix all wet ingredients first before adding to the sweet potatoes to guarantee a homogenous blend. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to fill each crust cup evenly, stopping just below the rim. The visual cue for doneness is a filling that no longer jiggles in the center and a crust that is lightly golden.
Serving Suggestions
These mini pies are versatile. Serve them warm as a delightful dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of bourbon-spiked whipped cream. For a brunch item, pair them with coffee. Garnish options include a dusting of powdered sugar and cinnamon, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast. They also make an elegant addition to a holiday dessert platter.
How-to Summary
In brief: Cook and mash sweet potatoes. Mix with sugar, butter, cream, egg, and spices. Line a mini muffin tin with pie crust circles. Fill with the sweet potato mixture. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until set. Cool before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned sweet potato puree? Yes, you can substitute about 1.5 cups of canned puree. Ensure it’s plain, not pre-sweetened, and adjust sugar to taste.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to restore crispness.
Can I freeze these mini pies? Absolutely. Freeze them after baking and cooling. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven before serving.
What if I don’t have a mini muffin tin? A standard muffin tin works; you’ll yield fewer pies, and the baking time may increase by 5-10 minutes.
How can I make the crust less soggy? Blind bake the crusts for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling. Also, ensure your mashed potatoes are not overly wet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Over-boiling the sweet potatoes, which makes them waterlogged and can lead to a soggy crust. Not allowing the filling to cool slightly before adding the egg, which could cause it to scramble. Overfilling the crusts, causing spills and messy edges. Skipping the cooling period in the pan, as the pies need this time to set properly for easy removal. Using cold ingredients, which can prevent the filling from blending smoothly.
Conclusion
These Mini Sweet Potato Pies are a charming and delicious treat that captures the essence of the classic dessert in a single bite. The process is straightforward, and the result is consistently impressive. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common errors, you’ll create a perfect batch every time. Their versatility in serving and make-ahead potential makes them an ideal choice for any gathering or a cozy night in. Enjoy the process and the delightful flavors of this beloved comfort food.