How to Freeze a Sweet Potato Pie? +Tips

Sweet potato pie is a classic Southern dessert known for its rich, velvety texture and sweet, spiced flavors. This delectable pie, made with roasted or mashed sweet potatoes, is a comforting treat that is often enjoyed during the fall and winter months. Whether you’re preparing a large batch for a gathering or simply want to preserve the deliciousness of homemade sweet potato pie for later enjoyment, freezing it is a convenient option. Freezing sweet potato pie allows you to extend its shelf life while ensuring that you always have a slice of this beloved dessert on hand. So, whether you’re planning ahead for a special occasion or want to savor the flavors of sweet potato pie throughout the year, freezing is a practical way to keep this Southern delight fresh and ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

Here are the steps to freeze a sweet potato pie:

Step 1. Allow the pie to cool completely to room temperature.

When a hot or warm pie is placed in the freezer, the difference in temperature between the hot pie and the cold freezer can cause moisture to form inside the pie. This moisture can create ice crystals, which can damage the texture and flavor of the pie, and also promote the growth of bacteria and mold.

By allowing the sweet potato pie to cool completely to room temperature, you allow the moisture to evaporate from the surface of the pie, reducing the risk of condensation forming inside when it’s frozen. This helps to maintain the quality and taste of the pie and also helps to preserve its texture and structure during the freezing process.

How long is sweet potato pie good for in the freezer?

Sweet potato pie can typically be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months without losing much quality. After that time, the texture and flavor of the pie may begin to deteriorate. It is important to store the pie properly to maintain its quality. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Label and date the packaging so you can keep track of how long it has been in the freezer. When you are ready to eat the pie, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Step 2. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to cover it completely.

Freezer burn occurs when the moisture in the food evaporates, leaving the food dehydrated and damaged. Wrapping the sweet potato pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil creates a barrier that helps to keep air and moisture out, reducing the risk of freezer burn.

Using freezer-safe containers is another option for freezing sweet potato pie. These containers are made from materials that are designed to withstand freezing temperatures and are less likely to crack or break in the freezer. They also offer a more secure seal than plastic wrap or aluminum foil, which can help to further reduce the risk of moisture getting into the pie.

Tips: The key is to make sure that the sweet potato pie is tightly wrapped or stored in a freezer-safe container to protect it from freezer burn and moisture. No matter which option you choose, make sure to label the bag or container with the date and contents so you can easily identify it in the freezer. Additionally, make sure to wrap the pie tightly to prevent freezer burn and to protect it from absorbing any unwanted odors or flavors from the freezer.

Can you freeze sweet potato pie with paper liners?

It is possible to freeze sweet potato pie with paper liners, but it is not recommended. Paper liners are not airtight or moisture-proof, which can cause the pie to become freezer-burned or develop ice crystals. Additionally, paper liners may stick to the pie and make it difficult to remove them after thawing.

If you want to freeze sweet potato pie, it is best to remove it from the paper liner and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. This will help protect the pie from freezer burn and ensure that it stays fresh and delicious.

Step 3. Label the pie with the date and the contents.

Labeling the sweet potato pie with the date and contents before placing it in the freezer is important for several reasons.

First, it helps you keep track of how long the pie has been in the freezer. This is important because frozen food can only be stored for a certain amount of time before it starts to degrade in quality and flavor. By labeling the pie with the date it was frozen, you can ensure that you use it within the recommended time frame.

Second, labeling the pie with the contents helps you quickly identify what’s inside the container without having to open it. This is particularly useful if you have multiple items in the freezer and want to find the sweet potato pie quickly.

Labeling the sweet potato pie is also helpful if you plan to freeze multiple pies or other foods. It can be easy to forget what’s inside each container after a few weeks in the freezer, so labeling them can help you avoid confusion and ensure that you’re using the right container.

Overall, labeling the sweet potato pie with the date and contents is a simple but important step to help you keep track of what’s in your freezer and ensure that you’re using your frozen food in a timely and organized manner.

Step 4. Place the wrapped pie in the freezer, making sure it’s in a flat position.

When a sweet potato pie is frozen in an uneven or slanted position, the filling can shift and settle, causing the pie to become misshapen or even collapse. This can ruin the appearance and texture of the pie, making it less enjoyable to eat.

By placing the sweet potato pie in the freezer in a flat position, you help to ensure that the pie maintains its shape and structure as it freezes. This is particularly important if you’re freezing a delicate or soft pie, like a sweet potato pie, which is more prone to deformation.

Additionally, freezing the sweet potato pie in a flat position helps to ensure that the pie freezes evenly. This is important because it helps to prevent ice crystals from forming on one side of the pie, which can damage the texture and flavor of the pie.

In summary, placing the wrapped sweet potato pie in the freezer in a flat position is a simple but important step to help ensure that the pie maintains its shape and structure, and freezes evenly.

Step 5. Thaw the sweet potato pie.

Thawing sweet potato pie slowly in the fridge is important to prevent any condensation from forming inside the pie. When a frozen sweet potato pie is left to thaw at room temperature, moisture from the air can accumulate on the surface of the pie as it begins to thaw. This moisture can cause the pie to become soggy, and can also promote the growth of bacteria.

By thawing the sweet potato pie slowly in the fridge, the temperature remains constant and the pie thaws evenly. This helps to prevent any moisture from forming on the surface of the pie, which in turn prevents the pie from becoming soggy and helps to maintain its texture and flavor.

Thawing the sweet potato pie slowly in the fridge also helps to ensure that the pie thaws evenly, which is important for maintaining its overall quality. If a sweet potato pie is thawed too quickly, it can become unevenly heated, leading to uneven texture and inconsistent flavor.

Overall, thawing the sweet potato pie slowly in the fridge is the best way to ensure that the pie thaws evenly, and to prevent the formation of moisture that can ruin the texture and flavor of the pie.

Step 6. Reheat the sweet potato pie.

Reheating a fully thawed sweet potato pie in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s heated through is important for two reasons.

Firstly, reheating the pie helps to ensure that it’s safe to eat. Although sweet potato pie can be safely frozen for several months, it’s important to reheat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to kill any potential bacteria that may have grown during the thawing process.

Secondly, reheating the sweet potato pie in the oven helps to restore its texture and flavor. Freezing and thawing can cause changes in the texture of the pie, making it less moist and more crumbly. Reheating the pie in the oven helps to restore some of the moisture and texture, making it more enjoyable to eat.

It’s important to note that reheating times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the sweet potato pie, as well as the type of oven you’re using. It’s a good idea to check the pie periodically while it’s reheating to ensure that it doesn’t become overcooked or burnt.

Overall, reheating the sweet potato pie in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s heated through is an important step to ensure that it’s safe to eat and to restore its texture and flavor.

Can you microwave frozen sweet potato pie?

It is not recommended to microwave a frozen sweet potato pie, as it can result in an unevenly thawed pie with a soggy or overcooked crust. It is best to thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight, which allows it to thaw evenly and helps to preserve its texture and flavor. Once the pie is thawed, you can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature (around 300-325°F or 150-165°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until it is warmed through. This will help to revive the crust and bring the pie back to its original texture and taste.

Can you put frozen sweet potato pie in the toaster?

No, it is not recommended to put a frozen sweet potato pie in the toaster as it can lead to uneven heating and damage to the toaster. Additionally, the toaster is not designed to thaw and reheat frozen food items, especially ones that have a delicate crust like a sweet potato pie.

Can you thaw frozen sweet potato pie in the fridge?

Yes, thawing frozen sweet potato pie in the refrigerator is one of the recommended methods for defrosting the pie. Simply place the pie in its packaging in the refrigerator and let it thaw for several hours or overnight, depending on the size of the pie. Thawing the pie in the fridge is a slow and gentle process that allows the pie to thaw evenly without compromising its texture and flavor. It also helps to prevent any bacterial growth that can occur at room temperature.

Can I reheat sweet potato pie in under 15 minutes?

It is possible to reheat sweet potato pie in under 15 minutes, but the exact time will depend on the size and thickness of the pie and the method used for reheating. Here are a few methods that you can use to reheat sweet potato pie in under 15 minutes:

• Microwave: Place a slice of sweet potato pie on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds per slice. Check the pie after each interval to make sure it’s heated through.

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the whole sweet potato pie or slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

• Toaster oven: Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F. Place a slice of sweet potato pie on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes or until heated through.

It’s important to note that reheating sweet potato pie too quickly can cause it to become dry or overcooked, so it’s best to keep an eye on the pie while reheating it and check it frequently to make sure it’s heated through but not overcooked.

Other related questions 

How can I tell if frozen sweet potato pies have gone bad?

If a frozen sweet potato pie has gone bad, there are a few signs to look out for. First, check for any signs of freezer burn, such as dryness or discoloration on the surface of the pie. Additionally, if the pie has an off smell or an unusual texture, it may have spoiled. It’s also important to check the expiration date and ensure that the pie hasn’t been in the freezer for too long. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the pie rather than risk getting sick from consuming spoiled food.

Is it better to freeze or refrigerate sweet potato pie?

Sweet potato pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, but if you need to store it for a longer period, it is better to freeze it. Freezing helps to preserve the quality and flavor of the pie for up to 6 months. However, it is important to store the pie properly in the freezer to prevent freezer burn or the growth of bacteria. Make sure to wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container or freezer bag before placing it in the freezer.

Does freezing sweet potato pie dry them out? 

Freezing sweet potato pie can cause it to dry out if it is not properly stored. When moisture in the pie freezes, it forms ice crystals, which can damage the structure of the pie and make it dry and crumbly. To prevent this, it is important to wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container or freezer bag to protect it from freezer burn. Properly frozen sweet potato pie can retain its moisture and texture for up to 6 months. Thawing the pie slowly in the refrigerator also helps to prevent any moisture loss.

Can you refreeze sweet potato pie?

It is not recommended to refreeze sweet potato pie once it has been thawed, as this can cause the pie to lose its texture and flavor. Refreezing can also increase the risk of bacterial growth and foodborne illness. If you have a leftover pie that has been thawed, it’s best to consume it within a few days or store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.