Indulge in the Irresistible Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, and today, I’m excited to share a cherished recipe that celebrates the rich culture and flavors of the South—Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie. This delightful dessert has a special place in my heart, not just for its mouthwatering taste but also for the warm memories it brings back of family gatherings and holiday celebrations. As a wife and mom, I love whipping up this pie with my son, making it a fun and educational experience in the kitchen.

Ingredients

To create this irresistible pie, you’ll need a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer taste)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Timing

Timing is everything when it comes to baking this pie. The total preparation and baking time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Here’s the breakdown:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Baking time: 50 minutes
• Cooling time: 10-15 minutes

Make sure to give yourself enough time to enjoy the process, especially if you’re cooking with little ones!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get into the fun part—making the Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie!

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by peeling and cutting your sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a pot of water until they’re tender, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the water and mash them until smooth.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.

Step 4: Pour into the Pie Crust

Pour the sweet potato mixture into your prepared pie crust. Make sure to spread it evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is slightly golden. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content per slice (1/8 of the pie):

• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 12g
• Sugar: 15g

While this pie is a treat, enjoying it in moderation is key, especially during the holidays!

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for ways to make this pie a bit healthier, consider these alternatives:

• Use a whole wheat or almond flour pie crust for added fiber.
• Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia.
• Substitute part of the butter with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat.

These swaps can help lower calories while still keeping that delicious taste!

Serving Suggestions

This pie is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate it even further with these serving suggestions:

• Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic touch.
• Sprinkle some chopped pecans on top for added crunch.
• Drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet finish.

Get creative and make it your own!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced bakers can stumble. Here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not mashing the sweet potatoes thoroughly can lead to a lumpy pie.
• Baking at too high a temperature can burn the crust before the filling sets.
• Skipping the cooling time can result in a pie that falls apart when sliced.

Take your time, and you’ll have a pie that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Storage Tips

To keep your pie fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Thaw frozen pie in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

With these tips, you can enjoy your sweet potato pie well beyond the holidays!

Conclusion

The Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of history and love that brings families together. With its creamy filling and flaky crust, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do, especially with your loved ones.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned sweet potatoes can be used for convenience. Just be sure to drain and mash them well before mixing.

How do I know when my pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the filling is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges of the crust should also be golden brown.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pie and refrigerate it before baking. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Cooking and baking are not just about the end result; they are about the memories we create along the way. I hope this Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie recipe inspires you to gather your loved ones, share stories, and indulge in the joy of homemade goodness. Happy baking!

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