Dessert

Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

BySana Jeannette November 16, 2025November 16, 2025

Introduction

Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie is a classic Southern dessert that’s rich, creamy, and full of warm spices. This pie is perfect for cozy gatherings and brings a comforting sweetness that’s hard to resist.

A close-up image of a pumpkin pie with one layer, featuring a smooth, golden-brown filling with subtle swirls on the surface. The pie has a lightly crimped crust that is a slightly darker golden color, crisp and baked perfectly all around the edges. The pie is inside a clear glass pie dish resting on a white marbled texture. The warm tones of the pie contrast gently with the clean, light background. 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 or boil the sweet potatoes until tender, then peel and mash them until smooth.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Roll out your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges to form a decorative border.

Step 5: Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake the pie 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: Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack for about 2 hours before slicing.

Step 8: Serve slices with whipped cream or ice cream, if desired, and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For deeper flavor, roast the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them.
Add a splash of bourbon or maple syrup to the filling for a unique twist.

Use a homemade pie crust for extra flakiness and flavor.
Sprinkle a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for added warmth.

Storage

Store any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or enjoy cold. Sweet potato pie also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months, thawing in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a pumpkin pie with a single slice cut out near the center, showing a smooth, rich orange-brown filling with tiny darker specks scattered across the surface. The pie has a slightly raised and crimped crust edge that is golden brown and flaky, evenly baked. The pie is set on a white marbled texture. 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?

While fresh sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Just make sure they are mashed smooth and drained if necessary.

How do I know when the pie is fully baked?

The pie is done when the filling is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges might be slightly puffed, but the center should be firm and not jiggly.