Description

Sweet potato pie is a beloved dessert in many households, often associated with warmth, tradition, and the essence of comfort food. This recipe offers a rich, velvety filling that perfectly balances the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Tucked into a flaky crust, it’s the perfect ending to any meal or a nostalgic treat for a quiet afternoon. Whether served with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this pie is guaranteed to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.

Ingredients

• For the Filling:
• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2-3 medium sweet potatoes)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• Pinch of salt
• For the Crust:
• 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by washing the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Peel them carefully, then cut into chunks to ensure even cooking. Place the sweet potato chunks in a pot of boiling water or steam them until fork-tender. This should take approximately 20-25 minutes. Once cooked, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. Allow them to cool slightly before proceeding with the filling.

Step 2: Create the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes and softened butter. Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing well after each addition. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated.

Next, add the evaporated milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until the filling is well combined and has a luscious, creamy consistency. The spices will give the filling a delightful warmth that complements the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim the edges neatly and crimp them for a decorative finish. Pour the sweet potato filling into the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure a smooth surface. The vibrant orange filling will already look inviting!

Step 4: Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The filling should be set, and a knife inserted into the center should come out clean. Keep an eye on the crust edges during baking; if they begin to brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent overbaking. Once done, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.

Tips and Conclusion

Enhance the Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the filling. The citrus notes will brighten the pie and complement the spices beautifully.
Perfect the Texture: If you prefer an ultra-smooth filling, run the mashed sweet potatoes through a fine mesh sieve or food processor before mixing.
Homemade Crust: If time allows, a homemade buttery pie crust can elevate this recipe even further.
Make Ahead: This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
This Black Folks' Sweet Potato Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of heritage, flavor, and love. The creamy, spiced filling paired with a tender, flaky crust makes it a standout addition to any holiday table or casual gathering. With every bite, you’ll be reminded of the comforting warmth of tradition and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

Explore other delightful recipes on our site and create more cherished memories in the kitchen. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—good food is always better when shared!