Every time I make this delicious Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie, it reminds me of Sunday dinners with family. The smell of sweet, buttery goodness fills the house, wrapping us all in warmth and nostalgia. My grandmother used to make this pie every holiday without fail, and it was something everyone looked forward to. The moment it came out of the oven, the entire room would light up with smiles and laughter. I remember sitting around the table, with my family serving their slices, as we shared stories and created memories. I just know that once you try this pie, you’ll feel that same warmth and comfort!
How to make Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie
Ingredients:
2 cups mashed sweet potatoes – Sweet potatoes are not only rich in flavor, but they also bring a beautiful orange color to our pie. They are the star of the show!
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – This will give our pie that luxurious, creamy texture. Trust me, you don’t want to skip the butter.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetness is essential in this recipe. The sugar balances the flavors perfectly.
1/2 cup packed brown sugar – This adds a deeper, richer sweetness that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
2 large eggs – The eggs act as a binding agent, giving our pie structure and a lovely custard-like feel.
1/2 cup evaporated milk – This milk gives a creamy richness that elevates our filling to the next level.
1 tsp vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla is like a warm hug, enhancing the sweetness.
1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, 1/4 tsp ground ginger, pinch of salt – These spices warm up the flavors and remind me of the holiday season. You can adjust them if you prefer a spicier pie.
1 9-inch unbaked pie crust – Whether you make your own or buy it from the store, this crust is essential for holding all that delicious filling together.
Now, let’s get into the cooking steps! I promise you, making this pie is not only easy but so incredibly rewarding.
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for perfectly cooked sweet potatoes and ensuring our pie sets beautifully.
-
Prepare the sweet potatoes. Wash and peel 2-3 medium sweet potatoes. Then, boil or steam them until fork-tender. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes. They should be soft enough to mash effortlessly. Once they’re ready, mash them until smooth and let them cool slightly.
-
Make the filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with 1/2 cup of softened butter. Beat them together until smooth. Then, add 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of evaporated milk, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, and all the spices: 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, 1/4 tsp ground ginger, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. You’ll love how wonderful it smells!
-
Prepare the pie crust. Grab your 9-inch unbaked pie crust and roll it out if necessary. Fit it into your pie pan and make sure to crimp the edges as desired.
-
Pour the filling into the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Take a moment to admire your work—you’re already halfway there!
-
Bake the pie in your preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Just imagine that lovely golden pie bubbling away!
-
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool to room temperature before serving. It’s hard, I know! But I promise that letting it cool helps the flavors meld beautifully.
-
Serve and enjoy! Slice the pie and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You’re going to love pairing it with that extra creaminess!
Why I Love Making This Dish: This pie holds a special place in my heart, not just for its incredible taste but also for the memories it brings back. Every time I make this recipe, it feels like a little piece of my childhood is recreated. The sweet potatoes, combined with just the right amount of spices, create a flavor that’s comforting and nostalgic. I cherish every moment spent in the kitchen, from peeling sweet potatoes to sharing slices with my loved ones.
What You’ll Need: To make this pie, all you need are a few simple tools: a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a potato masher or a mixer, a spatula, and of course, your favorite pie pan. Bonus tip—having a good peeler makes prepping the sweet potatoes much easier!
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Start by preheating your oven to the perfect temperature.
- Wash, peel, and steam your sweet potatoes until tender.
- Mash them until smooth, then combine all your ingredients.
- Pour the filling into a prepared pie crust.
- Bake to perfection and let it cool.
- Finally, enjoy with your family!
Tips for Perfect Results:
- If you want to kick the flavors up a notch, try adding a little more cinnamon or nutmeg! It can be delightful.
- You can make the filling a day ahead to make your baking day easier. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!
- Always check your pie toward the end of cooking. If the crust begins browning too much, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions and Sides: This pie shines on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. You might also consider serving it alongside a warm beverage, like spiced cider or a cup of coffee. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it with a side of candied pecans for a delightful crunch!
Leftovers: If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), simply cover your pie with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It can last about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, you can either eat it chilled or pop it in the microwave for a quick reheating. Just make sure it’s warmed through, and you’ll have that comforting taste all over again!
FAQ Section:
Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned? Absolutely! Fresh sweet potatoes are my go-to because they taste so much better. Just remember to prepare them by boiling or steaming until tender.
Can I use a different crust? Of course! If you prefer a graham cracker crust or even a store-bought one, they can work lovely. Just be aware that it may slightly change the pie’s flavor.
Can I add pecans to the filling? Yes! Adding chopped pecans can give it a nice crunch and add a lovely nutty flavor.
Can I make this vegan? Certainly! You can substitute the butter with vegan butter and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. The evaporated milk can be swapped out for a plant-based option like almond milk.
This pie has become a favorite in my house, and I’m so excited for you to try it. It’s easy to make and filled with love, nostalgia, and comfort. I know you will love it as much as I do! Please let me know how it turns out, and I would love to hear if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time! Happy baking!