Purple sweet potato pie is a creative and nutritious dessert that brings a pop of color and flavor to your table. Known for their vibrant hue and health benefits, purple sweet potatoes can transform a classic pie into a delightful treat that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Here’s how to prepare a unique and healthy version of purple sweet potato pie that everyone will enjoy!
Why Choose Purple Sweet Potatoes?
Purple sweet potatoes are more than just a pretty ingredient. They are rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help protect the body from free radicals. These sweet potatoes are also an excellent source of vitamins A and C, providing essential nutrients for skin health and immune function. Moreover, their high fiber content aids digestion, making them a beneficial addition to any diet.
For more details on the benefits and uses of purple sweet potatoes, check out our article Purple Sweet Potatoes: A Nutritional Powerhouse
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups gluten-free flour blend or whole wheat flour
- 3 tablespoons melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 4-5 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling:
- 2 cups of cooked and mashed purple sweet potatoes (about 2-3 medium potatoes)
- 1/2 cup almond milk or any milk of your choice
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey (adjust based on sweetness preference)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Make the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir in the melted coconut oil and maple syrup until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. You may need to adjust the amount of water slightly.
- Press the dough evenly into a 9-inch pie pan, ensuring a uniform thickness. Use a fork to poke holes in the bottom to prevent bubbling.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden, then remove from the oven and let it cool.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed purple sweet potatoes, almond milk, maple syrup (or honey), eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger powder, and salt. Whisk together until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the filling mixture into the cooled pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This will help the filling firm up a bit more.
- Serve warm or chilled, optionally topped with a dollop of whipped coconut cream or yogurt for added creaminess.
A Sweet Ending
This wholesome purple sweet potato pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and nutrition. The natural sweetness of the purple sweet potatoes combined with aromatic spices creates a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this pie with family and friends, and revel in the health benefits while indulging in a delicious dessert!
