When it comes to iconic soul food desserts, few dishes are as beloved as Patti LaBelle’s sweet potato pie. Known for its creamy, rich texture and perfect balance of sweetness and spice, this pie has become a staple at holiday gatherings across the country. In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to make the famous Patti LaBelle sweet potato pie recipe, ensuring you get that homemade taste with a celebrity chef’s touch.
This recipe, passed down to Patti from her best friend, Norma Gordon Harris, uses Louisiana yams to give the pie a luscious texture. A key feature of this pie is the brown sugar layer at the bottom of the crust, which adds flavor and prevents the crust from becoming soggy.
For another great soul food dessert, check out this Butterscotch Pie Recipe. It’s a perfect companion to any holiday meal.
Ingredients for Patti LaBelle Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup butter-flavored vegetable shortening, chilled
- ⅓ cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 3 large sweet potatoes (preferably Louisiana yams), scrubbed
- 8 tablespoons butter, melted (1 stick)
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ¼ cup half-and-half
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Whipped cream (optional, for serving)
How to Make Patti LaBelle Sweet Potato Pie
1. Making the Crust
Start by sifting 1½ cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt into a medium bowl. Add ½ cup of chilled butter-flavored vegetable shortening and cut it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ⅓ cup of ice water, stirring until the dough comes together.
Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in wax paper, and refrigerate it for at least an hour. After chilling, roll out the dough and transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan, trimming and fluting the edges as needed.
2. Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
While the dough chills, boil 3 large sweet potatoes until they are tender, about 30 minutes. After they cool, peel and mash them using an electric mixer until smooth. You’ll need exactly 3 cups of mashed sweet potatoes for this recipe.
3. Mixing the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the 3 cups of mashed sweet potatoes, 8 tablespoons of melted butter, ¾ cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Mix with an electric mixer until smooth. Add 2 beaten eggs, ¼ cup of half-and-half, ¾ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Blend until creamy and well mixed.
4. Assembling the Pie
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Remove the pie crust from the fridge, brush the interior with melted butter, and sprinkle ¼ cup of brown sugar over the bottom. Pour the sweet potato filling into the pie shell and smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Baking the Patti LaBelle Sweet Potato Pie
Bake the pie at 400°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and continue baking for about 1½ hours, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
If you love holiday desserts, be sure to check out this delicious recipe for Pecan Pie Muffins, another sweet treat that pairs perfectly with any festive meal.
Serving Suggestions for Patti LaBelle Sweet Potato Pie
Patti LaBelle’s sweet potato pie is a dessert that shines on its own but can be enhanced with a few simple additions. Serve it with a generous dollop of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra touch, drizzle caramel sauce over each slice for a decadent finish.
Looking for another autumn dessert to serve alongside your pie? Try these delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies, which combine classic fall flavors with a rich brownie base.
Variations and Customizations of Patti LaBelle Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
Here are some fun ways to customize the Patti LaBelle sweet potato pie recipe:
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour in the crust for a gluten-free baking mix.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and replace the half-and-half with almond or coconut milk.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for a more complex flavor profile.
FAQs About Patti LaBelle Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
How do you prevent the pie crust from getting soggy?
The key is to sprinkle brown sugar over the bottom of the crust before adding the filling. This layer creates a barrier that keeps the crust flaky and delicious.
Can I make Patti LaBelle’s sweet potato pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this pie a day or two in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator, and allow it to come to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving.
What if I don’t have Louisiana yams?
If you don’t have Louisiana yams, you can substitute other types of sweet potatoes, though the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
Can I use store-bought pie crust?
While homemade crust offers the best flavor and texture, a store-bought crust can work if you’re short on time.
Conclusion: Make Patti LaBelle Sweet Potato Pie Today
The Patti LaBelle sweet potato pie recipe is a perfect blend of tradition and indulgence. With its smooth filling and flaky crust, this dessert is sure to be the highlight of your holiday meal. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving or just to treat yourself, this pie is a must-try.
For more delicious pie recipes, check out this Sweet Potato Cheesecake Pie, another fantastic way to enjoy the rich flavors of sweet potatoes in a unique and delightful dessert.