Description

Ever wondered what happens when you mix the cozy comfort of sweet potato pie with a bold, spicy Caribbean twist? The Glazed Jamaican Jerk Sweet Potato Pie is here to answer that question with a big, delicious yes! This pie combines the creamy, sweet richness of mashed sweet potatoes with the warm, fiery kick of Jamaican jerk seasoning and a splash of dark rum.

Ingredients

This pie shines because of its carefully chosen ingredients that create a perfect harmony of sweet, spicy, and rich flavors. Here’s what you’ll need for one 9-inch pie:

For the Pie:

Mashed sweet potatoes (2 cups, about 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and peeled): The creamy, naturally sweet base of the pie.
Brown sugar (1 cup): Adds caramel-like depth and sweetness.
Heavy cream (½ cup): Brings richness and a smooth texture to the filling.
Dark rum (¼ cup): Provides a warm, molasses-like note that enhances the Caribbean vibe.
Large eggs (2): Bind the filling and give it structure.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a warm, sweet aroma.
Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Brings cozy warmth to the flavor profile.
Ground nutmeg (½ tsp): Adds a nutty, slightly sweet spice.
Jamaican jerk seasoning (1 tsp): The star ingredient, delivering a spicy, savory kick with notes of allspice, thyme, and chili.
Pre-made 9-inch pie crust: A flaky, buttery base that saves time.

For the Optional Glaze (Rum Caramel):

Brown sugar (½ cup): For a rich, caramel flavor.
Butter (2 tbsp): Adds smoothness and shine.
Dark rum (2 tbsp): Enhances the caramel with a warm, boozy note.
Heavy cream (2 tbsp): Creates a creamy, pourable consistency.

For Serving (Optional):

Whipped cream: Adds a light, creamy topping.
Cinnamon or nutmeg (for dusting): Enhances the presentation and flavor.

Substitutions and Variations:

Sweet Potatoes: Use canned sweet potato puree (drained) if fresh isn’t available, but fresh offers the best flavor.
Brown Sugar: Swap with coconut sugar for a more tropical vibe or granulated sugar for a lighter sweetness.
Heavy Cream: Use coconut milk for a dairy-free option or evaporated milk for a pantry-friendly substitute.
Dark Rum: Replace with bourbon, rum extract (1 tsp), or apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Jerk Seasoning: Make your own with a mix of ¼ tsp each allspice, thyme, chili powder, and black pepper if you don’t have pre-made jerk seasoning.
Pie Crust: Use a homemade crust or a graham cracker crust for a different texture.
Vegan Option: Use a vegan pie crust, coconut milk instead of cream, flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg), and skip the glaze or use vegan butter.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure your jerk seasoning is gluten-free.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The sweet potatoes provide a creamy, naturally sweet base, while the brown sugar and rum add depth and warmth. The jerk seasoning brings a bold, spicy twist that makes this pie unique, and the heavy cream ensures a velvety texture. The pre-made crust keeps things simple, letting the filling shine.

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a baking sheet on the middle rack to catch any potential drips.
Prepare the Pie Crust: Place the pre-made 9-inch pie crust in a pie dish if it’s not already in one. Prick the bottom lightly with a fork to prevent puffing.

Tip: Keep the crust refrigerated until ready to fill to maintain its flakiness.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Cook Sweet Potatoes: Boil or bake 2 large sweet potatoes until tender (about 40 minutes for baking at 400°F or 15–20 minutes for boiling). Let cool slightly.
Mash: Peel the sweet potatoes and mash until smooth. Measure out 2 cups of mashed sweet potato.

Tip: Use a potato masher or food processor for a silky texture. Avoid overmixing if using a processor to prevent gumminess.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes, 1 cup brown sugar, ½ cup heavy cream, ¼ cup dark rum, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, and 1 tsp Jamaican jerk seasoning.
Blend Until Smooth: Whisk by hand or use a hand mixer on low speed until the filling is velvety and well-combined, about 1–2 minutes.

Tip: Taste the filling before adding the eggs to adjust the jerk seasoning if you want more or less heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour Filling: Pour the filling into the pre-made pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure a smooth top.
Check Fit: Ensure the filling doesn’t overflow the crust. If you have extra, bake it in a small ramekin as a custard.

Tip: Tap the pie dish gently on the counter to release air bubbles for a smooth finish.

Step 5: Bake

Bake: Place the pie on the preheated baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the filling is set with a slight jiggle in the center and the top is lightly golden.
Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick near the center; it should come out mostly clean. If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with foil.

Tip: The slight jiggle means the pie will set fully as it cools, ensuring a creamy texture.

Step 6: Make the Optional Rum Caramel Glaze

Melt Butter and Sugar: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter with ½ cup brown sugar, stirring until smooth.
Add Rum and Cream: Stir in 2 tbsp dark rum and 2 tbsp heavy cream. Cook for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Cool Slightly: Let the glaze cool for 5 minutes until pourable but not hot.

Tip: If you don’t want alcohol, replace rum with 1 tsp rum extract or apple juice mixed with 1 tbsp water.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Cool the Pie: Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes to set the filling.
Apply Glaze: Drizzle the rum caramel glaze over the cooled pie, spreading it evenly with a spoon or brush for a glossy finish.

Tip: If not using the glaze, a dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon adds a nice touch.

Step 8: Serve

Slice: Cut the pie into wedges using a sharp knife.
Garnish: Serve warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or an extra drizzle of glaze.

Tip: Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a cozy treat.