In this post, weÕll explore the merits of the sweet potato and pumpkin pie. In addition, we’ll explore some of the history behind these ceremonial pies as well as investigate their traits. Both are delectable in their own rite, but it seems this age old debate wants only one winner. Is it possible?

LetÕs find out.

Contender #1: Pumpkin Pie

Being the more traditional of the two, the pumpkin pie is a treat that has received more publicity. Pumpkin was one of the few exports from the post Columbian America produce items that was immediately accepted in Europe as its taste was more palatable than other exported vegetables. ItÕs popularity over the sweet potato pie is partly due to its simple preparation process and more subdued vegetable flavor.

Traditionally, pumpkin pie recipes make use of pumpkin purŽe, sugar, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves. Take a glance at this tried-and-true recipe for a look at all the ingredients used, including homemade pumpkin purŽe! Keep in mind that flavor is greatly improved when using all natural and organic ingredients for this and any other pie recipes.

MORE TO READ: 7 Thanksgiving Dishes That Are Already Gluten-free

A single slice of pumpkin pie contains around 300 calories, and has a generous amount of potassium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, Vitamin B6, B12, phosphorus, niacin, calcium, iron and zinc. Not too bad for a squash that doubles as a popular latte flavoring.

Contender #2: Sweet Potato Pie

The sweet potato pie is a distant cousin to the pumpkin pie and is served on dinner tables throughout the US, even though it is only really considered to be a traditional dish in Southern US. When compared to pumpkin pie it is considered the Òmore southernÓ of the two. Its primary filling is made using sweet potatoes, eggs sugar and some spices. One single serving of conventional sweet potato pie (approximately 4 ounces) contains about 266 calories as per the National Food Service Management Institute.

 Pumpkin Pie vs. Sweet Potato: The Ultimate Thanksgiving DebateWhen considering the vitamins and mineral content of a sweet potato, you may be surprised to know that a single baked sweet potato can provide you with 262% of your daily required Vitamin A, 25% Vitamin C, 25% manganese and a little over 10% of dietary copper and fiber content. Sweet potatoes also offer a generous dose of antioxidants, which can help the body combat free radicals.

ThatÕs pretty impressive for a vegetable when youÕre having it as dessert.

To sum up its nutrient content: a simple 9 inch wide sweet potato pie using 1 pound of sweet potatoes, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, milk and eggs contains Vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron, thiamin, niacin, vitamin B6, magnesium, folate, and dietary fiber. Check out this recipe if youÕre looking for inspiration on how to make your own nutrient packed sweet potato pie!

ÒIf I could bottle the smell of this pieÉ IÕd wear it every single day, and IÕd have friends forever.Ó- Joy The Baker

And The Winner IsÉ

As far as the health benefits go when comparing the vegetables themselves, sweet potato comes out on top. According to this infographic by Prevention.com, sweet potatoes have more protein, fiber, magnesium, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C than pumpkin does. ItÕs really hard to say whatÕs ultimately better, however, as the overall nutritional content of the pie itself depends heavily on which ingredients you use (and where you got them from). There exists a variety of different recipes for both, ranging from low-fat to no-bake, gluten-free, crustless, and low-sugar. While pumpkin is still a healthy vegetable choice and a great option for carb-watchers, the sweet potato packs more of a nutritional punch. Sweet potato pie wins as the nutritional superior in this debate.

 Pumpkin Pie vs. Sweet Potato: The Ultimate Thanksgiving Debate

If texture is a main priority, however, most will find that pumpkin pie dominates in this arena. Pumpkin pie tends to have a more intense spice flavor with a texture that is both dense and creamy. The relative lack of starch allows for a smoother composition than the sweet potato pie. Some even liken the texture of a well-prepared pumpkin pie to that of a baked cheesecake. The pumpkin pie also wins in terms of preparation time as the availability of tasty, organic canned pumpkin purŽe (on sale this month!) saves the average cook the difficulty of cooking and purŽeing an entire pumpkin, while still maintaining a fresh and full flavor.

It Depends On What You Like

In conclusion, a lot has already been said and written about the pumpkin vs. sweet potato pie debate, and while opinions are equally divided between both, it is safe to say that there really is no right answer. Paula Haney, proprietor of Hoosier Mama Pie Co says that Òthe Pumpkin pie is more about the spices, whereas sweet potato is more about the sweet potato.Ó In the end, it really comes down to preference and itÕs not unusual to have both at the Thanksgiving table.

As for Tidal Creek Co-op CafŽ, weÕll be whipping up pumpkin pies for order that can be made gluten-free, vegan, or both. WeÕre making pecan pies, too! WeÕre making everything but the turkey, actually. From green bean casserole to cornbread stuffing, the Co-op CafŽ is providing Thanksgiving catering in Wilmington with gluten-free and vegan options available for all sides and desserts! Picking up a few extra sides is a great solution if youÕre having guests with special diets or simply need more hands in the kitchen. Click here for our full Thanksgiving menu and pricing. 

New Call-to-action

Orders can be placed at the Co-op CafŽ counter anytime on or before November 21! Tidal Creek Co-op and health food store makes it easy to eat gluten-free in Wilmington! The Co-op will be one of the few stores and restaurants open Thanksgiving in Wilmington. Our Thanksgiving Day hours are from 9 am – 2 pm. Need Thanksgiving catering in WilmingtonClick here for more information.