Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
Oh, friend get ready for a slice of Southern comfort like no other. This Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie is rich, creamy, and kissed with warm spices that’ll make your kitchen smell like a cozy Sunday afternoon at Grandma’s. It’s one of those desserts that feels like a hug from the inside out sweet but not too sweet, smooth with a hint of soul, and always baked with love. Whether it’s for the holidays or a “just because” treat, this pie is tradition, joy, and pure deliciousness all in one bite.
Trust me, once you make this, it’ll earn a permanent spot on your dessert rotation. Let’s get into it, shall we?
Why You’ll Love Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, potlucks, or any time your sweet tooth calls.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Quick and Easy: With pre-made crust and canned or fresh sweet potatoes, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up.
Customizable: You can tweak the spices or use a homemade crust if you’re feeling fancy.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie
Let’s take a peek at what makes this pie so dreamy and soulful:
Sweet Potatoes: The heart and soul of the pie. Roasted or boiled until tender, they bring a natural sweetness and silky texture.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create that smooth, melt-in-your-mouth filling.
Evaporated Milk: Gives the pie that ultra-creamy consistency without making it too heavy.
Granulated Sugar: Just the right amount to enhance the sweetness of the potatoes.
Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a caramel-like flavor that’s hard to resist.
Eggs: These bind everything together and help the pie set beautifully.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of warmth and flavor to balance the spices.
Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg: The classic spice duo that brings all the cozy vibes.
Ground Ginger (optional): For a subtle, zesty kick that plays perfectly with sweet potato.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the other flavors.
Unbaked Pie Crust: Store-bought or homemade—either way, it’s the flaky base that holds all that sweet goodness.

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Set your oven to 350°F. This steady heat allows the pie to cook evenly without burning the crust.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth. Add melted butter, both sugars, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla, and spices. Mix until the filling is creamy and well blended.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Place your unbaked pie crust into a pie dish and gently press it into the edges.
Assemble the Dish: Pour the sweet potato mixture into the crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula. No fancy swirl needed rustic is beautiful here.
Cook to Perfection: Bake for 50–60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set but still slightly jiggly. A knife inserted should come out mostly clean.
Finishing Touches: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. This gives it time to set up just right.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled or at room temp, plain or topped with whipped cream. Either way, every bite is bliss.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 8 slices
Calories per serving: 370
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
How to Serve Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
– A dollop of freshly whipped cream or Cool Whip for an airy finish
– A scoop of vanilla ice cream for that warm-cold contrast
– A light sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top
– Crushed pecans or a drizzle of caramel for extra flair
– With a hot cup of coffee or sweet tea for the perfect ending
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– For extra smooth filling, use a hand mixer or food processor
– Roast your sweet potatoes instead of boiling for deeper flavor
– Make it ahead of time the flavor actually deepens overnight
– Let it cool fully before slicing to avoid a runny filling
– Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days
– Don’t overmix your batter just combine until smooth
– Use real butter for the richest flavor
– A glass pie dish helps you keep an eye on the crust’s doneness
– Lightly cover the crust with foil if it browns too quickly
– Warm it slightly before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel
FAQ’s
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, just make sure they’re unsweetened and drained well before mashing.
2. How do I know when the pie is done?
The center should be just set and a bit jiggly. A knife inserted should come out mostly clean.
3. Can I use a graham cracker crust instead?
You can! It adds a different flavor twist and works well with the creamy filling.
4. Can I freeze sweet potato pie?
Absolutely wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
5. How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.
6. Can I use condensed milk instead of evaporated?
You can, but reduce the sugar since condensed milk is very sweet.
7. Should I blind-bake the crust first?
Not necessary for this recipe, but you can if you like a crisper base.
8. What can I use instead of brown sugar?
You can use all granulated sugar or try coconut sugar for a slight twist.
9. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes use plant-based butter and coconut or almond milk instead of evaporated milk.
10. Why is my pie cracked on top?
It may have overbaked. Next time, remove it from the oven when slightly jiggly in the center.
Conclusion
This Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie isn’t just a dessert it’s a celebration. Every bite carries warmth, tradition, and that signature soul food charm that brings people together. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, it’s sure to impress with its creamy texture, sweet spices, and buttery crust. So go ahead, grab a slice (or two), and savor the kind of flavor that sticks with you in the best way possible.
Print
Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie is a beloved Southern dessert rooted in African-American tradition. Made with creamy mashed sweet potatoes, warm spices, and evaporated milk, it’s rich, soulful, and a must-have for holidays and special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Add the evaporated milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), and salt. Beat until well combined and creamy.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool at room temperature. Chill in the fridge for a firmer texture, or serve warm.
- Optional: Top with whipped cream or a dusting of cinnamon before serving.
Notes
- Roast the sweet potatoes instead of boiling for deeper flavor.
- Use a hand mixer or food processor for a super-smooth filling.
- Let the pie fully cool before slicing to keep it firm and neat.
- Best made a day ahead — the flavor improves overnight.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: sweet potato pie, Southern dessert, Black folks recipe, soul food pie, holiday pie, traditional sweet potato pie