Pinto Bean Pie

Yes, you read that right—Pinto Bean Pie! It might sound unusual, but trust me, this dessert is an absolute game-changer. If you love rich, custard-like pies with a little bit of a twist, this one’s for you. The smooth, subtly sweet filling made with pinto beans pairs perfectly with a buttery, flaky crust. It’s the kind of pie that will have everyone asking, “What’s in this?”—and you’ll smile, knowing they’ll be hooked as soon as they taste it.

Why You’ll Love Pinto Bean Pie

• Surprising Flavor: It may seem like an unexpected ingredient for a pie, but pinto beans create a filling that’s smooth, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet.
• Hearty & Satisfying: This pie is unexpectedly filling, making it a great option for a comforting dessert that’s not too heavy.
• Customizable: You can adjust the level of sweetness or spice to match your taste. Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even some cocoa powder for extra richness.
• Perfect for a Crowd: This unique pie is sure to be a conversation starter at any gathering. It’s always fun to share something a little off the beaten path with friends and family.
• Budget-Friendly: Pinto beans are inexpensive, and the ingredients for this pie are simple and affordable. No need to splurge to enjoy something delicious and satisfying!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this unforgettable pie:

• Pinto Beans: The star of the show! When pureed, pinto beans provide a rich, creamy texture that’s perfect for the pie filling.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the beans and create that custard-like filling.
• Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and creating a smooth, firm texture.
• Butter: For a little richness and a buttery flavor in the filling.
• Vanilla Extract: A must-have to bring out the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.
• Milk: For that smooth, creamy consistency.
• Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the filling and give it a custard-like texture.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices add warmth and depth to the flavor of the pie.
• Pie Crust: A flaky, buttery pie crust—store-bought or homemade—forms the base of this pie.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get baking!

1. Prepare the Beans:

If you’re using dried pinto beans, start by soaking them overnight, then cook them until soft. If you’re using canned beans, drain and rinse them thoroughly.

2. Make the Filling:

In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked pinto beans, sugar, eggs, butter, vanilla extract, milk, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides if needed to ensure everything is well-mixed.

3. Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives it time to reach the right temperature while you assemble the pie.

4. Assemble the Pie:

Pour the pinto bean mixture into your prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth out the filling evenly.

5. Bake the Pie:

Place the pie on the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling has set and is slightly firm to the touch. The edges should be golden brown.

6. Let It Cool:

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This step is important to let the pie set properly before serving.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once cooled, slice the pie and serve it as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy the creamy, sweet goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 280
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 120mg
Total Carbohydrates: 34g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 19g
Protein: 5g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve Pinto Bean Pie

• Classic: Serve it fresh from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting and nostalgic dessert experience.
• With Coffee: This pie pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The spices in the pie complement the rich, bold flavors of the coffee.
• As a Snack: You don’t need a big occasion to enjoy this pie! A slice makes a delicious, filling snack during the day.

Additional Tips

• Chill for Best Results: For an even more perfect texture, let the pie chill in the fridge for a few hours after baking. It’ll help the filling set and be even more sliceable.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for a little extra warmth and depth.
• Crust Options: You can use a traditional pie crust or a graham cracker crust for a fun twist. Both work wonderfully with this creamy filling.
• Add-ins: Try adding a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a little crunch and extra flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A1: Yes! This pie can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for preparing the day before a gathering.

Q2: Can I use other types of beans?
A2: While pinto beans are traditionally used in this pie, you could try using other beans like navy beans or black beans. Just make sure to blend them thoroughly for a smooth texture.

Q3: Can I use a pre-made pie crust?
A3: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a store-bought pie crust works just fine and saves you some prep time.

Q4: Is this pie gluten-free?
A4: Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free pie crust. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free.

Q5: Can I make this pie dairy-free?
A5: Yes! You can substitute the butter and milk with dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil and almond milk. It will still be delicious!

Q6: How can I make the pie sweeter?
A6: If you prefer a sweeter pie, feel free to add more sugar or sweetener to taste. You can also drizzle a little honey on top before serving.

Q7: Can I freeze Pinto Bean Pie?
A7: Yes! You can freeze the pie before or after baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

Q8: How can I thicken the filling?
A8: If the filling seems too runny, you can add a little more cornstarch or cook the beans longer to ensure they’re soft and broken down well.

Q9: How do I store leftovers?
A9: Store any leftover pie in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh.

Q10: What can I serve with Pinto Bean Pie?
A10: A scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream pairs perfectly with this creamy, custardy pie. It also goes wonderfully with a hot drink like coffee or tea.

Conclusion

Pinto Bean Pie is truly a hidden gem! Its creamy, custard-like filling and unexpected depth of flavor will surprise you in the best way. Perfect for anyone looking for a unique and comforting dessert, this pie will make you rethink what beans can do. Try it for your next family dinner or special occasion—you’ll be amazed at how delicious this humble pie can be!

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