Thanksgiving Pie Countdown: Sweet Potato Pie

[Photograph: Lauren Weisenthal]

This sweet potato pie is a great alternative to the plethora of pumpkin pies out there. The filling actually tastes of sweet potato, while brown sugar adds notes of caramel and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg enhance, but not overpower, the filling's flavors. The best part about this not-too-sweet pie filling? You can layer on the homemade marshmallow topping.

That's right, we've brought this into real crave-worthy territory with a homemade marshmallow topping. Brulee the top just before serving to provide a rich warm contrast to the chilled filling (and really impress everyone at your Thanksgiving table.)