The term encompasses a set of instructions detailing the process of creating a baked dish where the primary component is a filling made from sweet potatoes, encased in a pastry crust. It constitutes a culinary blueprint, guiding individuals through the selection of ingredients, preparation steps, and baking parameters necessary to achieve a desired outcome. For example, variations may include differing crust types (e.g., shortcrust, graham cracker), spice combinations (e.g., cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger), or additions like pecans or marshmallows.
Such documented guidance offers numerous advantages. It provides a structured approach to cooking, reducing the potential for errors and ensuring a more consistent final product. Furthermore, the formulation allows for the standardization and replication of a particular flavor profile, fostering a sense of culinary tradition and enabling adjustments for dietary needs or preferences. Historically, recipes served as a critical means of transmitting culinary knowledge across generations and cultures, preserving techniques and flavor combinations specific to particular regions or communities.