Quick Air Fryer Sweet Potato Pie Perfect Every Time
Imagine biting into a slice of silky smooth, perfectly spiced air fryer sweet potato pie with a buttery, flaky crust that melts in your mouth. This soul-satisfying dessert brings all the warmth of traditional Southern baking without heating up your entire kitchen.
Here’s a fun fact: sweet potato pie has been a beloved staple at family gatherings since the 1800s, and now you can make it in half the time using your air fryer!
This recipe is special because it delivers that classic, creamy filling with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg in just 35 minutes. If you loved our air fryer apple pie, you’ll absolutely adore this even easier version that requires minimal prep and yields maximum flavor. Let’s create some magic!
What is Air Fryer Sweet Potato Pie?
Ever wondered why sweet potato pie holds such a special place in Southern cuisine? This beloved dessert is more than just a pie—it’s a tradition wrapped in flaky pastry. Think of it as pumpkin pie’s more sophisticated cousin, with a velvety texture and natural sweetness that doesn’t need much sugar.
The air fryer version takes this classic comfort food and makes it weeknight-friendly. After all, they say the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach, and nothing says “I care” quite like a homemade pie that tastes like it took hours but only required minutes of your time. Ready to become everyone’s favorite baker?
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Sweet Potato Pie
Creamy, Dreamy Perfection
The star of this show is that incredibly smooth, custard-like filling that practically melts on your tongue. We’re talking about perfectly cooked sweet potatoes blended with warm spices, rich butter, and just enough sweetness to make every bite feel like a warm hug. The air fryer creates an evenly cooked filling with edges that set beautifully while keeping the center silky smooth.
Budget-Friendly Homemade Goodness
Skip the bakery price tag! Making air fryer sweet potato pie at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at a restaurant or specialty shop. Sweet potatoes are incredibly affordable year-round, and you probably already have most of the pantry staples like eggs, sugar, and spices in your kitchen. Plus, one pie serves 6-8 people generously, making it perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
Flavor-Packed Ingredients
What makes this pie truly special is the combination of warm spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla—that complement the natural earthiness of sweet potatoes. A dash of butter adds richness, while evaporated milk creates that signature creamy texture.
Top it with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got a dessert that rivals any fancy restaurant creation. If you enjoyed our air fryer pecan pie, you’ll love how this recipe offers similar comfort with its own unique twist. Give this recipe a try at home and watch it become your new go-to dessert!
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Pie
Quick Overview
This air fryer sweet potato pie is remarkably simple to make and delivers restaurant-quality results every time. The secret lies in perfectly cooked sweet potatoes that are mashed smooth and combined with aromatic spices. The air fryer does all the heavy lifting, creating a beautifully set pie with a golden crust that would make your grandmother proud.
Time Breakdown:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Cooling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Sweet Potato Pie
For the Filling:
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2-3 medium sweet potatoes)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Crust:
- 1 store-bought or homemade 9-inch pie crust (unbaked)
- 1 tablespoon butter for greasing
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Toasted pecans
- Caramel drizzle
- Mini marshmallows
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by cooking your sweet potatoes until they’re fork-tender. You can microwave them for 8-10 minutes, bake them at 400°F for 45 minutes, or boil them for 20 minutes. Once cooked, let them cool slightly, then peel off the skin and mash thoroughly until completely smooth with no lumps. Measure out exactly 2 cups of mashed sweet potato for the filling.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed sweet potatoes with the granulated sugar. Mix well until the sugar is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Add the evaporated milk, beaten eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until the filling is silky and uniform in color.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Sprinkle in the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. These warm spices are what give sweet potato pie its signature flavor, so don’t skip them! Mix thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the filling. The mixture should smell absolutely heavenly at this point.
Step 4: Prepare the Pie Crust
If using a store-bought crust, let it come to room temperature for easier handling. Carefully place the crust in a pie pan that fits your air fryer basket (typically 7-8 inches works best for most air fryers). Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges and crimp the edges decoratively with a fork or your fingers. Lightly grease the crust with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Fill the Crust
Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The filling should come just below the rim of the crust. Gently tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles trapped in the filling.
Step 6: Air Fry the Pie
Preheat your air fryer to 320°F. Carefully place the filled pie into the air fryer basket. Cook for 35-40 minutes, checking at the 30-minute mark. The pie is done when the edges are set and slightly puffed, but the center still has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. If the crust edges are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil strips.
Step 7: Cool Completely
This is the hardest part—waiting! Remove the pie from the air fryer and let it cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours. As it cools, the filling will continue to set and firm up to that perfect sliceable consistency. For best results, refrigerate for an additional hour before serving.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Slice your beautiful air fryer sweet potato pie into wedges and serve with your favorite toppings. A generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon make for a classic presentation. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator.
What to Serve Air Fryer Sweet Potato Pie With
This pie is versatile enough to be the star of any meal. For a traditional Southern spread, pair it with savory dishes like roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or herb-roasted chicken. The sweet and savory combination is absolutely divine.
Looking for complementary desserts? Serve smaller slices alongside other treats at a dessert buffet. It pairs wonderfully with pecan pie bars, apple crisp, or pumpkin cheesecake squares for variety.
Beverage-wise, this pie shines with hot coffee, spiced chai tea, or cold milk. For a special occasion, try it with a glass of dessert wine like Moscato or a cream liqueur over ice. Hot apple cider also makes an excellent companion on chilly autumn evenings.
Don’t forget the toppings! Beyond whipped cream, consider vanilla bean ice cream, bourbon caramel sauce, toasted pecans, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for extra indulgence.
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Sweet Potato Pie
Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes
Always use orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (often labeled as yams in grocery stores) rather than white sweet potatoes. The orange variety has more natural sweetness and creates that beautiful golden color everyone loves in sweet potato pie.
Achieve Ultra-Smooth Filling
For the silkiest texture possible, use a hand mixer or immersion blender to whip the sweet potatoes before adding other ingredients. This eliminates any fibrous bits and creates a filling that rivals professional bakeries. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve if you want absolute perfection.
Prevent a Soggy Bottom
Blind-bake your crust for 5 minutes at 350°F before adding the filling. This pre-baking creates a barrier that prevents the moisture from the filling from making the crust soggy. Brush the pre-baked crust with a thin layer of beaten egg white for extra protection.
Don’t Overbake
The biggest mistake people make is overcooking sweet potato pie. Remember, the center should still jiggle slightly when done—it will continue to set as it cools. Overbaked pie becomes grainy and loses that luxurious custard texture.
Make-Ahead Magic
You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. This actually improves the flavor as the spices have time to bloom. Just give it a good stir before pouring into the crust.
Customize the Sweetness
If your sweet potatoes are particularly sweet, reduce the sugar to ⅔ cup. Conversely, if you prefer a sweeter pie, add up to 1 cup of sugar. Always taste your filling before baking and adjust to your preference.
Size Matters
Most standard air fryers accommodate a 7-8 inch pie pan perfectly. If you only have a 9-inch pan, you may need to cook in batches or use a smaller pan. Measure your air fryer basket before starting!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator Storage
Sweet potato pie stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Once completely cooled, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure it’s sealed around the edges. Alternatively, transfer slices to an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezer Storage
This pie freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months! Wrap the cooled pie (whole or in slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then in a layer of aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe bag with the air pressed out. Label with the date so you remember when you made it.
Thawing Instructions
For best results, thaw frozen pie in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing preserves the texture of both the filling and crust. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can make the filling watery and the crust soggy.
Reheating Methods
To reheat refrigerated slices, pop them in the air fryer at 300°F for 3-5 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds, though this may soften the crust. For a whole pie, reheat in a regular oven at 300°F for 15-20 minutes covered with foil, then uncover for the last 5 minutes to crisp the crust.
Serving Temperature
While delicious warm, sweet potato pie is traditionally served chilled or at room temperature. Many people actually prefer it cold straight from the fridge, as the flavors have time to meld and the texture becomes even more custardy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes! Canned sweet potatoes work great for this recipe. Use two 15-ounce cans, drain them well, and mash thoroughly. Be sure to choose plain sweet potatoes, not the candied variety with added sugar and syrup, or you’ll need to adjust the sugar in the recipe.
Why is my sweet potato pie runny?
A runny pie usually means it needs more baking time or wasn’t allowed to cool completely. The filling sets as it cools, so patience is key. Make sure you’re using the right ratio of eggs to sweet potato (2 eggs per 2 cups mashed sweet potato). Overbaking can also cause issues, so aim for that slight jiggle in the center.
What’s the difference between sweet potato pie and pumpkin pie?
While both are custard-based pies, sweet potato pie has a richer, creamier texture and more complex flavor. Sweet potatoes are naturally sweeter and less watery than pumpkin, resulting in a denser filling. The spices are similar, but sweet potato pie often has a more prominent buttery flavor.
Do I need to peel sweet potatoes before cooking?
You don’t need to peel them before cooking—in fact, it’s easier to peel them after! The skin slips right off cooked sweet potatoes. However, make sure no skin makes it into your filling, as it can create an unpleasant texture.
Can I make this pie without an air fryer?
Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly in a conventional oven. Bake at 350°F for 50-55 minutes until the edges are set. The air fryer version just cuts down on time and doesn’t heat up your whole kitchen.
How do I know when the pie is done?
The pie is perfectly done when the edges are set and slightly puffed, but the center still jiggles slightly when you gently shake the pan. Insert a knife 2 inches from the edge—it should come out clean. The center will continue to set as it cools.
Can I use a graham cracker crust instead?
Yes, graham cracker crusts work wonderfully with sweet potato filling! They add a nice contrast in texture and a subtle sweetness. You may need to reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes since graham cracker crusts are already cooked.
What size air fryer do I need?
A 5.8-quart or larger air fryer works best for this recipe. You need enough space to fit a 7-8 inch pie pan comfortably. Smaller air fryers can work if you make mini pies in ramekins or use a smaller pan.
Why did my pie crack on top?
Cracking usually occurs from overbaking or baking at too high a temperature. Make sure your air fryer is set to 320°F, not higher. Some cracking is normal and won’t affect the taste—simply cover it with whipped cream when serving!
Can I reduce the sugar for a healthier version?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar to ½ cup for a less sweet version. You can also substitute with coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners may slightly change the texture, so you might need to reduce the milk by 1-2 tablespoons.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Slice (⅛ of pie) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 68mg |
| Sodium | 195mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 41g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 24g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Vitamin A | 180% DV |
| Vitamin C | 8% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 6% DV |
Note: Nutritional information is approximate and based on standard ingredients. Values may vary depending on specific brands used.
Creative Variations to Try
Maple Bourbon Sweet Potato Pie
Replace half the sugar with pure maple syrup and add 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the filling for a sophisticated adult twist. The bourbon enhances the warm spices and adds depth to the sweetness.
Coconut Sweet Potato Pie
Substitute the evaporated milk with coconut milk and add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the filling. Top with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical variation that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
Sweet Potato Streusel Pie
Create a crumbly topping by mixing ½ cup flour, ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup cold butter, and ½ cup chopped pecans. Sprinkle over the filling before baking for added texture and nutty flavor.
Chocolate Sweet Potato Pie
Add ¼ cup cocoa powder and 3 ounces of melted dark chocolate to the filling. This creates an unexpected and decadent dessert that chocolate lovers will go crazy for
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your complete guide to making the most incredible air fryer sweet potato pie! This recipe takes a beloved Southern tradition and makes it accessible for busy weeknight baking without sacrificing any of that nostalgic, home-cooked flavor.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving dinner, a casual Sunday dessert, or meal prep for the week ahead, this pie delivers consistent, crowd-pleasing results every single time.
Don’t be intimidated by pie-making! With your trusty air fryer doing most of the work, you’ll be amazed at how easily this comes together. The key is using quality sweet potatoes, not overbaking, and having the patience to let it cool completely before slicing.
We’d love to hear how your air fryer sweet potato pie turned out! Share your photos in the comments below or tag us on social media. Did you try any of the variations? What toppings did you choose? Your feedback helps us create even better recipes for our community.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll love exploring our other air fryer desserts. Check out our air fryer peach cobbler, air fryer brownies, and air fryer banana bread for more quick and delicious treats that prove your air fryer is the ultimate kitchen multitasker.
Happy baking, and may your kitchen always smell like cinnamon and sweet potatoes!
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