Greenville’s Sweet Potato Pie Pioneer Shontel Babb Aims to Change Dessert Traditions

Greenville’s Sweet Potato Pie Revolution: Meet Aunt Tel’s!

In the heart of Greenville, one woman is on a delicious mission that’s turning heads (and taste buds!) everywhere: Shontel Babb, the genius baker behind Aunt Tel’s Premium Sweet Potato Pie. While pumpkin pies might hold the seasonal crown, Babb is determined to prove that sweet potato pie deserves a place on tables all year round. So, what makes her pie so special? Just one bite, and you’ll understand!

Sweet Beginnings

Shontel Babb wasn’t always a baker. In fact, this pie-making journey started as a small side project, with the delightful treat being gifted to friends and family during the holidays. Although her heart was in the kitchen, her career was focused on climbing the corporate ladder, working at giant companies like Coca-Cola. “I was supposed to be the vice president of corporate human resources,” she chuckled. “But turns out, pie was my true calling!”

After years in sales, Shontel found herself feeling a bit lost, especially after taking a job that just didn’t fit. It was then that she thought, “Why not make my pie business my main gig?” And just like that, Aunt Tel’s came to life!

The Perfect Recipe

Creating a pie that made people swoon took time. Shontel experimented with her recipe, influenced by a friend’s mother’s pie, which had a lovely citrus flavor. She spent hours tinkering with ingredients, focusing on sourcing local, organic produce and dairy. “My pies are made with organic sweet potatoes, fresh local butter, and King Arthur Flour — and unconventional wisdom — no cinnamon!” Shontel proudly states. After many trials and a ton of taste-testing, she perfected her signature pie that balances sweetness with a bright citrus punch.

From Local Markets to Wider Horizons

Aunt Tel’s pies have gone from local farmers markets and pop-up events to prominent spots like the Swamp Rabbit Café & Grocery and even five Harris Teeter locations! “People actually come looking for my pies!” Babb beams. And they’re not disappointed!

What’s even more remarkable is the support Shontel received from the Swamp Rabbit Café. When demand exceeded supply, instead of turning away, they handed her the pie crust recipe to help her grow! “It’s inspiring to watch someone start with us and launch their own business,” said Mary Walsh, co-owner of Swamp Rabbit.

Changing the Game for Sweet Potato Pies

Shontel’s mission goes beyond just selling pies; it’s about changing how people see sweet potato pie. “It’s still mainly thought of as a holiday dessert, but I’m here to change that perception,” she explains. With her pies priced at $30 each, Shontel believes that once people taste her work, they’ll be hooked for life.

And she’s not just dreaming big; she’s doing big things! Aunt Tel’s Premium Sweet Potato Pie, LLC was officially launched in October 2021, inspired by her nephews who lovingly merged her name into “Aunttel.” Since then, business has grown exponentially, and with Christmas around the corner, she’s busier than ever. “Every week at the farmers markets, I usually sell out! It’s a wonderful feeling!”

Join the Sweet Potato Pie Movement

For those curious to dive into the world of Aunt Tel’s pies, you can find them in local stores and farmers’ markets throughout Greenville and beyond. Shontel’s infectious passion and dedication are evident — each pie is a testament to her hard work and love for sweet potato dessert.

So, next time you’re thinking about dessert, consider hopping on the sweet potato pie bandwagon. Who knows? You just might find your new favorite treat!

For more info about Aunt Tel’s Premium Sweet Potato Pie, you can check out aunttel.com. Get ready to be amazed by a delightful explosion of flavor — just one bite might change your dessert game for good!