A Southern Dessert Duo in Every Bite
These Mini Sweet Potato Pecan Pies combine two beloved Southern classics into one irresistible, handheld treat. You get the warm, spiced sweetness of creamy sweet potato pie layered with the gooey, nutty richness of pecan pie — all tucked into flaky premade pie crusts that make this recipe as easy as it is delicious. Each bite is a perfect balance of soft, crunchy, buttery, and sweet, making these minis ideal for holidays, gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a little Southern comfort in dessert form.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Layer
- 1 sweet potato
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 egg, whisked
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- ⅛ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla
Pecan Pie Layer
- 2 eggs, whisked
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup corn syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla
- ¾ cup crushed pecans
- ¼ cup halved pecans
Crust
- 1 ready-made pie crust
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potato Layer
- Cook or microwave the sweet potato until soft.
- Scoop out the flesh and mash until smooth.
- Stir in melted butter, sugar, whisked egg, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and vanilla until fully combined.
2. Mix the Pecan Pie Layer
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, brown sugar, and corn syrup.
- Add vanilla, then fold in crushed pecans.
- Set halved pecans aside for topping.
3. Assemble the Mini Pies
- Roll out the premade pie crust and cut into small circles to fit a muffin tin.
- Press each circle into the muffin wells to form mini pie shells.
- Spoon a layer of sweet potato mixture into each crust.
- Top with the pecan mixture.
- Place a halved pecan on top of each mini pie.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, or until set.
- Allow to cool for about 1 hour to fully firm and develop flavor.
Pro Tips & Serving Suggestions
- Use a cookie cutter or jar lid to cut uniform mini crusts.
- Add a splash of maple syrup to the pecan filling for extra richness.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a comforting finish.
- Store leftovers in the fridge — they taste even better the next day.
About the Creator
This recipe comes from Eugenia Stokes James, known on Instagram as @mrsejames_ — a home cook who brings warmth, family tradition, and soulful flavor to every dish she shares. Her recipes highlight comforting Southern favorites with simple, heartfelt preparation.
Eugenia Stokes James | @mrsejames_