Southern Sweet Potato Pone Recipe
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then boil or bake them until fork tender.
Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Allow them to cool slightly before mixing with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
Add cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans or coconut over the top.
Step 4: Bake the Pone
Place the dish into the oven and bake for 55–70 minutes.
The edges should become beautifully caramelized while the center remains moist but set.
Insert a knife into the center. It should come out mostly clean with slight moisture.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the sweet potato pone to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm, room temperature, or chilled depending on your preference.
Top with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
Do not overmix the batter after adding eggs, as this can affect the final texture.
Fresh sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and texture. Canned sweet potatoes may contain excess moisture and sweetness.
The top should become lightly caramelized during baking. This creates the classic old-fashioned Southern flavor.
