Sweet Potato Tart Filling

20 tarts Prep: 15 m Cook: 25 m Total: 40 m Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
Sweet Potato Tart Filling
This sweet potato filling works perfectly with any sweet dough tart recipe—just boil and cream sweet potatoes with butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar for a classic Louisiana dessert filling. Makes enough for about 20 tarts.

Ingredients

20 tarts servings
  • 4 medium to large fresh yams or sweet potatoes
  • 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • Small amount of milk (optional, for consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into quarters.
  2. Boil the sweet potatoes in a covered saucepan with just enough water to cover the potatoes.
  3. When soft (about 20 to 25 minutes) drain and place the potatoes in a mixing bowl. Add the butter and cream the potatoes on low speed with a hand mixer or stand mixer.
  4. Add the sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla and mix well. Note if the potatoes are drier than you think they should be add a small amount of milk to reach the desired consistency.
  5. Fill your tarts and bake according to your sweet dough tart recipe. Enjoy!

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my filling too watery?

A: Make sure to drain the sweet potatoes thoroughly after boiling. If the filling seems too wet, you can cook it on the stovetop for a few minutes to evaporate excess moisture, or simply don't add the optional milk.

Q: Can I make this filling ahead of time?

A: Yes! This filling keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before filling your tarts.

Tips and Techniques

For the best texture, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the sweet potatoes with the butter while they’re still warm—this helps create a smooth, lump-free filling. You can also add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for extra warmth and complexity.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • sweet potatoes: canned sweet potato puree (about 2 cups)
  • butter: margarine or coconut oil
  • white and brown sugar: all brown sugar or all white sugar
  • vanilla extract: maple extract or bourbon

Equipment Needed

  • Heavy saucepan for boiling
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Potato masher (if mixer not available)

Historical Context

Sweet potato tarts have been a Louisiana tradition for generations, often made for holidays and special occasions. The combination of sweet potatoes with warm spices reflects both Southern baking traditions and the French influence on Louisiana pastry-making.