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### **Instructions:**
#### 1. **Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:**
Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into large chunks. Place them in a medium-sized pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Let the sweet potatoes cook for 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Drain the water and let the potatoes cool for a few minutes before mashing them. You should have about **2 cups of mashed sweet potatoes**.
For extra smoothness, use a potato masher or a hand mixer to ensure there are no lumps.
#### 2. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. This ensures it’s hot and ready for your pie once the filling is prepared.
#### 3. **Make the Sweet Potato Filling:**
In a large mixing bowl, add the mashed sweet potatoes, **granulated sugar**, **brown sugar**, **vanilla extract**, **cinnamon**, **nutmeg**, **ginger**, and **salt**. Mix everything until fully incorporated.
Next, add the **eggs**, **evaporated milk**, **whole milk**, **melted butter**, and **lemon juice** (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and silky. The eggs help set the filling, while the evaporated milk adds richness and creaminess to the pie.
#### 4. **Prepare the Pie Crust:**
If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, simply unroll it and press it gently into your pie dish. If you’re using homemade dough, roll it out and line your pie dish with the dough, trimming off any excess around the edges. Crimp the edges for a classic look or leave them simple.
#### 5. **Pour the Filling into the Crust:**
Once the filling is ready, pour it into the prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth out the top of the pie evenly.
#### 6. **Bake the Pie:**
Place the pie on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for **50-60 minutes**, or until the pie’s center is set and the edges of the crust are golden brown. You can test if the pie is done by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean, or the filling should be slightly firm.
#### 7. **Cool and Serve:**
Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for at least an hour. The filling will continue to set as it cools, and it will be easier to slice. For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate the pie for several hours or overnight before serving.
Before serving, you can top your sweet potato pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a little extra flair.
### **Tips for the Best Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie:**
1. **Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes:** While canned sweet potatoes are convenient, fresh sweet potatoes have the best flavor and texture. Roasting or boiling them from scratch makes a big difference in taste.
2. **Don’t Skip the Spices:** The cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are what give this pie its signature warm, comforting flavor. Make sure to add the full amount—these spices are essential to a delicious sweet potato pie!
3. **Evaporated Milk is Key:** Evaporated milk adds richness and depth to the filling, making the pie smooth and creamy. Don’t substitute with regular milk—evaporated milk is a game-changer.
4. **Adjust the Sweetness:** This recipe uses a mix of granulated and brown sugars, but feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste. Some prefer a sweeter pie, while others like it a bit more savory.
5. **Chill Before Serving:** While tempting to dig in right away, letting the pie chill for a few hours helps the filling set, giving you a clean slice and better flavor.
6. **Make It Your Own:** Sweet potato pie is highly customizable. Some people like to add a little bit of bourbon, rum, or vanilla extract for extra flavor depth. Experiment and find your perfect balance!
### **Why This Sweet Potato Pie Is So Special:**
This **Black Folks Sweet Potato Pie** recipe is a true Southern classic, rich in flavor and cultural significance. The use of fresh sweet potatoes, aromatic spices, and a creamy filling all work together to create a pie that’s not only delicious but also an integral part of Southern hospitality. Whether it’s served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a Sunday dinner, this pie is sure to bring people together, creating moments of joy and nostalgia.
As you share this pie with loved ones, you’re not just serving a dessert—you’re honoring a tradition that’s been passed down through generations. The blend of flavors and the care that goes into each bite is what makes this pie truly special.
### **Final Thoughts:**
Sweet potato pie holds a beloved place in the hearts of many, especially in Black Southern kitchens, where it’s often seen as a labor of love. This recipe is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced—just the way sweet potato pie should be. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a family gathering, or simply for yourself, this pie will never disappoint. So, preheat your oven, grab those sweet potatoes, and get ready to indulge in a slice of tradition and comfort.
Happy baking!
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