Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie is a staple of soul food cuisine, carrying stories and love in every bite. This exquisite dessert isn’t just about taste; it embodies a rich history and culture that celebrates the Black community’s culinary heritage. Every forkful delivers a delightful blend of sweetness and warmth, making it a cherished favorite at family gatherings and celebrations. Let’s dive into why this pie is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Black Folks Sweet Potato
This pie is more than just dessert; it’s an experience. Here are several reasons to love it:
- Classic flavors that remind you of home.
- Perfect for family gatherings, especially during the holidays.
- Nutritious ingredients packed with vitamins and fiber.
- Easy to make with simple steps.
- Rich in history, connecting generations through food.
- Versatile; can be served warm or cold, with or without toppings.
- Great representation of traditional sweet potato recipes in the Black community sweet potato recipes.
- Ideal for those who appreciate Southern sweet potato dishes.
Ingredients for Black Folks Sweet Potato
Gather these items:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 2 cups mashed)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked deep-dish pie crust
How to Make Black Folks Sweet Potato Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Wash sweet potatoes thoroughly. Boil or bake until fork-tender (boil 15-25 min; bake at 400°F/200°C for 45-75 min). If boiled, drain extremely well. Peel skins and mash until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes). Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Step 3: Stir ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, and salt into the wet mixture until evenly distributed. Gently fold in the cooled, mashed sweet potatoes.
- Step 4: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the sweet potato filling into the unbaked pie crust. Tap the pie plate on the counter to release air bubbles.
- Step 5: Place the pie on the center oven rack. Bake for approximately 50-65 minutes until the edges are set and the center has a slight wobble.
- Step 6: Carefully remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely for at least 2-3 hours. Slice and serve or store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Black Folks Sweet Potato
Keep these in mind:
- Adjust sweetness or spice to taste.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an added treat.
- For a unique twist, try adding a hint of bourbon to the filling.
- Ensure the sweet potatoes are well-drained for the best texture.
Best Ways to Serve Black Folks Sweet Potato
Here are some serving suggestions:
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess.
- Serve alongside other Southern-style sweet potato recipes for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as a dessert with your favorite beverage, such as tea or coffee.
How to Store and Reheat Black Folks Sweet Potato
To store, keep the pie covered loosely in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This makes it a great option for meal prep and family gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Folks Sweet Potato
What’s the secret to perfect Black Folks Sweet Potato?
The secret lies in using the freshest sweet potatoes and properly seasoning the filling. This ensures a rich flavor that embodies the essence of African American sweet potato traditions.
Can I make Black Folks Sweet Potato ahead of time?
Yes! This pie can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Black Folks Sweet Potato?
To avoid common pitfalls, ensure the sweet potatoes are well mashed and incorporate the spices evenly. Additionally, don’t rush the cooling process, as it helps the pie set properly.
Variations of Black Folks Sweet Potato You Can Try
Here are some exciting variations:
- Add a layer of pecan streusel on top for a crunchy texture.
- Incorporate coconut for a tropical twist.
- Experiment with a sweet potato soufflé for a lighter dessert option.
- Try adding spices like ginger or allspice for a unique flavor profile.
For more delicious recipes, check out our desserts category or learn how to make easy cinnamon rolls for a delightful breakfast treat. You can also explore homemade tomato sauce for a savory addition to your meals.
Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie: 5 Reasons to Love It
Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie is a staple of soul food cuisine, carrying stories and love in every bite. It’s a testament to resilience and the joy found in sharing delicious food.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-65 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Soul Food
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 2 cups mashed)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked deep-dish pie crust
Instructions
- Wash sweet potatoes thoroughly. Boil or bake until fork-tender (boil 15-25 min; bake at 400°F/200°C for 45-75 min). If boiled, drain extremely well. Peel skins and mash until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes). Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Stir ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, and salt into the wet mixture until evenly distributed. Gently fold in the cooled, mashed sweet potatoes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the sweet potato filling into the unbaked pie crust. Tap the pie plate on the counter to release air bubbles.
- Place the pie on the center oven rack. Bake for approximately 50-65 minutes until the edges are set and the center has a slight wobble.
- Carefully remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely for at least 2-3 hours. Slice and serve or store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness or spice to taste.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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