Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie Recipe 🥧
A Soulful, Comforting Dessert That’s Been a Family Favorite for Generations
Introduction:
Sweet potato pie holds a special place in the hearts and kitchens of Black families across the South and beyond. A dessert that dates back centuries, it’s often enjoyed during holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just as an everyday comfort treat. The sweet potato itself, rich in history and flavor, has been an essential part of African American cuisine. This pie is not just a dessert; it’s a symbol of heritage, tradition, and love passed down through generations. Whether you’re new to making it or have a family recipe of your own, this soulful dessert is bound to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2-3 medium sweet potatoes)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk (or whole milk for a creamier texture)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice
- Pinch of salt
For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3-4 tbsp ice water (or as needed)
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet crust)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash, peel, and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks.
- Boil them in a large pot of water for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and mash them until smooth, making sure there are no lumps.
2. Make the Pie Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with softened butter. Stir until the butter melts into the potatoes.
- Add in the sugar, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness or spices if desired.
3. Prepare the Pie Crust:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, form it into a disc, and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.
4. Assemble the Pie:
- Roll out the pie dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough into the dish, pressing it into the edges and trimming off any excess.
- Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5. Bake:
- Bake the pie at 375°F (190°C) for 45-55 minutes or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil or a pie shield.
6. Cool & Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set for a cleaner cut.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
The History & Formation of Sweet Potato Pie:
Sweet potato pie is deeply rooted in African American culture, particularly in the southern United States. The origins of the dish can be traced back to the early days of slavery when sweet potatoes were a staple food for African Americans. These hearty tubers were easy to grow and provided a reliable source of nutrition. As time went on, Black families began incorporating sweet potatoes into their recipes, particularly desserts like pies, which would have been made with locally grown, accessible ingredients.
The sweetness of the potato, combined with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, created a flavor profile that has stood the test of time. In many African American households, sweet potato pie was a beloved treat made with love and care, especially during the holidays, and it remains a symbol of family, tradition, and resilience.
The Lovers of Sweet Potato Pie:
Sweet potato pie isn’t just a food; it’s a connection. A connection to family, to community, and to the past. There’s a special bond formed over the preparation of this pie, whether it’s passed down from grandmother to granddaughter or shared at family gatherings. The beauty of sweet potato pie is in its versatility—whether enjoyed after a big holiday meal or as a simple comfort on a quiet evening, it brings people together.
The crust and the filling are both elements that can be customized. Some like it with a crunchy, golden crust, while others prefer a soft, flakier option. The spices can be adjusted to suit the tastes of the baker, and some even experiment with the addition of chocolate, pecans, or bourbon to give the pie an extra twist. Whatever the variation, the love and soul that go into making this dish remain the same.
Conclusion:
Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a tradition. The rich, velvety filling with its warm spices and buttery crust brings comfort and joy to anyone who takes a bite. It’s a reminder of the strength, resilience, and love that has been passed down through generations. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays, sharing a family meal, or just indulging in a treat on a Sunday afternoon, sweet potato pie will always bring people closer.
So, the next time you make this pie, think of the history behind it, the families who have enjoyed it for generations, and the love that you’re adding to the table. After all, the best pies are those made with a little bit of heart.
Do you make sweet potato pie often, or is this something you’re looking to try for the first time?