Spread the love

When I first encountered Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie, it was during a family gathering in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. The aroma of fresh sweet potatoes wafted through the air, mingling with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg that seemed to embrace each other in a warm hug. As I watched her skillfully prepare the pie, I realized that this wasn’t just a dessert; it was a tradition passed down through generations, each slice telling a story of love, resilience, and unity. Like my grandmother, I cherish this recipe not only for its inviting flavor but also for the cherished memories tied to it pie served during holidays, family gatherings, and special occasions.

This pie is a symbol of my family’s heritage, bringing everyone together at the table to share laughter and create memories. It’s the sweetness of pleasure meeting the earthy richness of sweet potatoes wrapped in a flaky crust, a quintessential combination that always evokes happiness and nostalgia.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What makes Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie stand out is its authentic, homestyle taste. This recipe is more than just a dessert it’s a full sensory experience. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, combined with spices, creates a warm, embracing flavor that is both comforting and nostalgic. It’s also quite simple to prepare, making it a go-to favorite among families during gatherings. With its bright orange filling and golden crust, this pie is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

This pie is also versatile, allowing for countless variations while remaining true to its roots. Whether you enjoy it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or chilled straight from the fridge, each slice invites you to reminisce about your own family’s stories.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Filling

2 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
1 cup granulated sugar (you can adjust for sweetness)
1/2 cup evaporated milk (for creaminess)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Crust

1 (9-inch) pie crust, store-bought or homemade (for a flakier crust, opt for a butter-based crust)
Optional: 1 tablespoon of sugar for sprinkling on top of the crust

When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm ones without any blemishes for the best flavor and texture. Evaporated milk adds richness; however, you can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.

How to make Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth.
Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Blend well until the mixture is creamy and even in color.
Prepare the Crust: Place your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. If using a store-bought crust, follow the package instructions for pre-baking if necessary.
Pour and Smooth: Pour the sweet potato filling into the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for even cooking.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pie has set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be slightly puffed and golden brown.
Cool: Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing. This helps the filling to firm up.

Tips & Recipe Variations

Use Fresh Herbs: Try adding a teaspoon of fresh ginger for a zesty kick.
Sweetness Levels: If you prefer less sweetness, start with 3/4 cup of sugar and taste it before you add more.
Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax seed meal (1 tablespoon flax seed mixed with 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use almond milk in place of evaporated milk.
Storage: Cover leftovers and store in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

How to Serve

Serve slices of Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for indulgence.
Pair with a warm cup of spiced chai or a rich coffee to enhance the flavors.
Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped pecans for added texture and style.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days or bake the entire pie a day ahead and refrigerate it.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this pie freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What can I use instead of evaporated milk?

Coconut milk or almond milk can be excellent substitutes for a dairy-free option.

How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?

Ensure the sweet potatoes are thoroughly drained and mashed with no lumps or excess moisture before mixing with other ingredients.

Can I make this vegetarian or dairy-free?

Yes! As mentioned, simply substitute eggs and milk to meet your dietary preferences.

Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie encapsulates the essence of gatherings family, laughter, and the delicious aroma of home-cooked meals. Each bite of this pie carries with it memories and traditions, transforming special occasions into cherished moments. I invite you to create this recipe, indulge in its flavors, and share your experiences. There’s something truly magical about baking this pie; it brings people together and warms the heart. So go ahead, gather your loved ones around, and let this pie be the centerpiece of your next celebration.

“This pie took me straight back to my grandmother’s kitchen! The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the crust was so flaky. I can’t wait to bake it again!”

– An enthusiastic home baker who rediscovered this beloved family recipe.