Dessert

Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

ByRita Bennet November 21, 2025November 21, 2025

Introduction

Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie is a comforting, deeply flavorful dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes combined with warm spices. This classic Southern treat is perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday celebrations.

The image shows a close-up of a single-layer pumpkin pie with a smooth, golden-brown filling that has a slightly textured surface with faint swirls. The pie crust is thick, golden, and crimped neatly around the edges, sitting in a clear glass pie dish. The pie is placed on a white marbled texture, giving a clean and elegant look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes (about 2 cups mashed)
1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup evaporated milk

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 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the center.

Step 2: Roast the sweet potatoes until tender, then peel and mash them until smooth.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until the filling is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Roll out the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and gently press to fit, crimping the edges to secure.

Step 5: Pour the sweet potato filling evenly into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving.

Step 8: Slice and serve with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try roasting the sweet potatoes instead of boiling for a caramelized sweetness.
Use half-and-half instead of evaporated milk for a creamier filling.

Add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the filling for a subtle depth of flavor.
To make it vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.

Storage

Store leftover pie tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a pumpkin pie with one slice partially cut out, showing a smooth, orange-brown filling with a few tiny dark specks across the surface. The pie has a golden-brown crust with a slightly crimped edge, held in a clear glass pie dish. The pie sits on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?

While fresh roasted sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and texture, canned sweet potatoes can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain and mash them well before mixing into the filling.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is ready when the filling is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The edges may puff slightly, and the top should look dry and firm.