Soul Food Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
If you are looking for a classic dessert that will transport you back to your childhood, then look no further than an old-fashioned sweet potato pie. This soul food staple has been a favorite in African American homes for generations, and for good reason. With its rich, creamy filling and flaky crust, it's hard to resist a slice of this delicious pie.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 4-6 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. To make the crust, combine the flour and salt in a large bowl. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges and set aside.
5. To make the filling, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, butter, sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl. Beat until smooth.
6. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the pie to cool before slicing and serving.
Tips
1. For the best results, use freshly baked sweet potatoes instead of canned.
2. Be sure to mash the sweet potatoes thoroughly to avoid any lumps in the filling.
3. Don't overmix the filling, or it may become too dense.
4. To prevent the crust from becoming too soggy, pre-bake it for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling.
5. Serve the pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Conclusion
Nothing beats a slice of old-fashioned sweet potato pie for a comforting dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth. With its simple ingredients and easy instructions, this recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why this classic soul food dish has stood the test of time?