We’ve always been captivated by Leah Chase’s sweet potato pie a timeless Southern classic from the legendary Queen of Creole Cuisine. As the heart behind Dooky Chase’s Restaurant in New Orleans she infused her recipes with rich cultural heritage and bold flavors that warm the soul.
This pie isn’t just dessert it’s a celebration of tradition with its creamy filling and perfectly spiced crust. We’re excited to guide you through our version of her iconic recipe so you can bring a taste of history to your table today.
Ingredients
For our take on Leah Chase’s Sweet Potato Pie, a cherished Southern staple from the Queen of Creole Cuisine, we carefully select these essential ingredients. We’ve organized them in the order they’re typically used, with prep notes for accuracy and ease.
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch, store-bought or homemade, thawed if frozen) – This forms the base and should be placed in a pie dish before filling.
Sweet Potato Filling
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2-3 medium sweet potatoes, baked or boiled until tender, then peeled and mashed) – The star ingredient, providing rich, earthy sweetness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds balanced sweetness to complement the potatoes.
- 2 large eggs – Beaten lightly to bind the mixture and create a smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk – Poured in for creamy consistency; we recommend full-fat for authentic richness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted) – Incorporates for a velvety mouthfeel and subtle nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Stirred in for a warm, aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Essential for spicy warmth that evokes New Orleans flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Grated fresh if possible, to enhance the pie’s comforting spice profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Added to heighten the overall taste without overpowering.
These ingredients capture the essence of Leah Chase’s legacy, ensuring a pie that’s flavorful and true to its cultural roots.
Required Tools and Equipment
Now that we have gathered our essential ingredients for Leah Chase’s Sweet Potato Pie, let’s equip ourselves with the right tools to ensure a seamless baking process. These items help us capture the authentic flavors and textures of this Southern classic blending creamy sweet potatoes with warm spices.
To prepare and bake the pie effectively, we’ll need the following tools and equipment. We’ve organized them below in the order of use for clarity:
- Pie dish (9-inch): Our go-to for holding the pie crust and filling, ensuring even baking and that signature golden-brown finish.
- Mixing bowls (medium and large): Essential for combining ingredients; the medium one works for wet mixtures while the large bowl handles dry components with ease.
- Measuring cups and spoons set: Accurate measurements are key to recreating Leah Chase’s precise flavors, so we rely on these for sugar, milk, and spices.
- Potato masher or electric mixer: This tool mashes the sweet potatoes smoothly, creating the creamy base that defines the pie’s comforting texture.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending eggs and liquids into a uniform batter, helping us achieve that velvety consistency.
- Rubber spatula: We use this to scrape down bowl sides and fold in ingredients without overmixing, preserving the pie’s delicate structure.
- Oven thermometer: Ensures our oven maintains the ideal temperature for baking, guaranteeing a perfectly set pie every time.
- Cooling rack: Allows the pie to cool evenly after baking, preventing a soggy crust while locking in those rich, aromatic flavors.
By having these tools ready, we set the stage for transforming simple ingredients into a piece of culinary history from Leah Chase’s legacy.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and tools, we guide you through crafting Leah Chase’s Sweet Potato Pie with precision and ease. Follow these steps to create a creamy Southern dessert bursting with warm spices and rich flavors.
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
First, select 2 large sweet potatoes—about 1 pound total—for their vibrant orange flesh and natural sweetness. Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold water then pierce each one several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during cooking. Place the potatoes in a large pot of boiling water and cook for 30-40 minutes until fork-tender or bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for 45-50 minutes on a baking sheet. Once cooled slightly, peel off the skins and mash the flesh in a mixing bowl using a potato masher or electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, evoking the comforting aroma of fresh-baked goodness that defines Leah Chase’s legacy.
Make the Filling
In the same mixing bowl with the mashed sweet potatoes, add 2 cups granulated sugar for balanced sweetness, 3 large eggs beaten lightly for a silky texture, 1 cup evaporated milk for creamy richness, 1/4 cup melted butter for a nutty depth, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for warm undertones, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for spicy warmth, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg for a hint of earthiness, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to enhance the flavors. Using a whisk, blend all ingredients together vigorously for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is velvety and homogeneous, releasing an irresistible scent of spices that captures the essence of this iconic Southern classic from Leah Chase’s repertoire.
Assemble the Pie
Press a pre-made 9-inch pie crust into the pie dish, trimming any excess dough along the edges for a neat finish. Pour the prepared filling into the crust, smoothing the top with a rubber spatula to ensure even distribution. Gently tap the dish on the counter to release any air bubbles, creating a golden-brown masterpiece ready for the oven and honoring the authentic techniques of Leah Chase’s culinary heritage.
Bake the Pie
Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the assembled pie on the middle rack for optimal heat circulation. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the center is set but still slightly jiggles like a luxurious custard, and the top turns a beautiful golden brown with a fragrant spice aroma filling your kitchen. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a rack for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To simplify your holiday baking or meal prep while preserving the creamy texture and warm spices of our Leah Chase Sweet Potato Pie, we recommend these strategic steps. This allows the flavors—such as the nutmeg and cinnamon—to meld beautifully, enhancing the pie’s authentic Southern essence.
Preparing the Filling in Advance
We can prepare the sweet potato filling up to 2 days ahead for optimal freshness. Start by following the steps in our main instructions to cook and mash the sweet potatoes. Then, mix in the granulated sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until smooth. Transfer the filling to an airtight container, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it immediately. This method keeps the filling’s rich, velvety consistency intact, ready for assembly when you are.
Assembling the Pie Ahead of Time
For even easier preparation, we suggest assembling the entire pie up to 24 hours in advance. Press the pre-made pie crust into your 9-inch pie dish as outlined earlier. Pour in the prepared filling, smooth the top with a rubber spatula, and cover the dish loosely with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the unbaked pie to prevent the crust from becoming soggy while allowing the spices to infuse deeper flavors. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even baking.
Baking and Storing the Pie
If you prefer to bake the pie fully ahead, we can do so and store it for later enjoyment. Bake according to our step-by-step guide until the pie is set and golden brown. Once cooled completely on a wire rack, cover it with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Freezing helps maintain the pie’s signature creamy texture, but thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
To ensure your pie retains its delightful aroma and taste, refer to the table below for recommended storage times and methods:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Store in an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent odor absorption. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Wrap tightly in freezer-safe material; avoid freezer burn for the best flavor. |
For reheating, if the pie was baked ahead, warm individual slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until heated through. This revives the pie’s golden crust and aromatic spices without compromising its creamy interior. Always serve chilled or at room temperature for the most authentic experience.
Conclusion
We’ve shared Leah Chase’s sweet potato pie as a way to celebrate Southern flavors and heritage. It’s a simple joy that brings us together around the table.
As you try this recipe, you’ll discover how easy it is to create something truly special. Let’s keep her spirit alive in our kitchens and savor every moment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Leah Chase’s Sweet Potato Pie?
Leah Chase’s Sweet Potato Pie is a iconic Southern dessert from the Queen of Creole Cuisine, celebrated at her New Orleans restaurant, Dooky Chase’s. It embodies rich cultural heritage with warm spices and creamy textures, reflecting her legacy in Creole cooking. This pie combines mashed sweet potatoes with traditional flavors for a comforting, historical treat.
What ingredients are needed for Leah Chase’s Sweet Potato Pie?
The key ingredients include a pre-made pie crust, mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. These components capture the authentic Southern flavors, ensuring a balanced, flavorful pie that honors Chase’s recipes.
What tools and equipment are required to make the pie?
You’ll need a 9-inch pie dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a potato masher or electric mixer, a whisk, rubber spatula, oven thermometer, and cooling rack. These tools help achieve the perfect texture and even baking, making the process smooth and true to the original recipe.
How do I prepare Leah Chase’s Sweet Potato Pie step by step?
Start by baking and mashing sweet potatoes. Mix with sugar, eggs, milk, butter, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to create the filling. Pour into a pre-made pie crust and bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes until set. Cool on a rack before serving for the best results.
Can I make Leah Chase’s Sweet Potato Pie ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Assemble the pie up to 24 hours ahead and chill. Bake the pie ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. This simplifies holiday prep while keeping flavors fresh.
How should I store and reheat the pie?
Store baked pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warm, preserving the creamy texture and aromatic spices.
Why is Leah Chase’s Sweet Potato Pie significant?
This pie represents Leah Chase’s legacy as a pioneer in Creole cuisine, symbolizing Southern traditions and community from Dooky Chase’s Restaurant. Its rich flavors highlight cultural history, making it a beloved dessert that connects people to New Orleans’ heritage through simple, heartfelt ingredients.