Few desserts capture the warmth, comfort, and nostalgia of fall and winter quite like sweet potato pie. Rich, smooth, and delicately spiced, it has long been a cornerstone of Southern baking traditions. But this Best Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie takes the classic recipe one elegant step further by introducing a splash of bourbon — not overpowering, but just enough to deepen the flavor and add a subtle caramelized warmth that lingers with every bite.

This pie isn’t just dessert — it’s an experience. It’s what you serve when you want guests to pause mid-conversation and ask, “What’s in this?” The bourbon enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes while balancing the spices, making this pie feel indulgent yet refined. Whether you’re baking for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy weekend gathering, this bourbon sweet potato pie deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection.

Why Bourbon and Sweet Potato Are a Perfect Match

Sweet potatoes naturally bring earthy sweetness and a creamy texture to baked desserts. Bourbon, made primarily from corn and aged in charred oak barrels, introduces notes of vanilla, caramel, and toasted wood. When paired together, the result is a deeply layered filling that tastes complex without being complicated.

Unlike pumpkin pie, which relies heavily on spices for character, sweet potato pie shines because of the vegetable itself. Bourbon simply amplifies what’s already there — it doesn’t mask it. Even those who don’t typically enjoy alcohol-based desserts often love this version because the alcohol bakes off, leaving behind pure flavor.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Pie Filling

2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2–3 medium sweet potatoes)
¾ cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
2 large eggs, room temperature
¼ cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
2 tablespoons bourbon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Crust

1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or high-quality store-bought)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges. Set aside.
If using fresh sweet potatoes, peel and cube them, then boil until fork-tender. Drain well and mash until smooth. Let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
Add melted butter, eggs, heavy cream, bourbon, and vanilla extract. Whisk until silky and uniform.
Sprinkle in cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir gently to avoid incorporating excess air.
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles excessively.
Remove from oven and allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps the filling firm up properly.
Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled, optionally topped with whipped cream or candied pecans.

Pro Tips for the Best Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie

Use roasted sweet potatoes for deeper flavor. Roasting caramelizes the sugars and removes excess moisture.
Choose a quality bourbon, but not an expensive one. Mid-range bourbons with vanilla or caramel notes work best.
Don’t overmix once eggs are added. Gentle mixing ensures a creamy texture.
Let the pie rest for at least 2 hours before slicing for clean cuts.

Variations to Try

Pecan Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans over the filling before baking.
Maple Bourbon Pie: Replace half the sugar with pure maple syrup for extra depth.
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk and dairy-free butter.
Mini Bourbon Sweet Potato Pies: Bake in tart shells for individual servings.

Serving Suggestions

This pie pairs beautifully with:

Fresh whipped cream with a hint of vanilla
Bourbon-spiked whipped cream for extra indulgence
Vanilla bean ice cream
A cup of coffee or spiced chai
A small pour of bourbon on the side for adults

Cultural Notes: Sweet Potato Pie vs Pumpkin Pie

Sweet potato pie is deeply rooted in Southern and African American culinary traditions, predating pumpkin pie in many households. While pumpkin pie gained national popularity through commercial canning, sweet potato pie remained a symbol of homemade comfort and family gatherings. Adding bourbon gives this heritage dessert a modern, celebratory twist without losing its soul.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Make ahead: Bake up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.
Storage: Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.