Bean pie might sound unusual at first, but it’s a classic, sweet dessert with a rich history and a flavor profile similar to pumpkin pie. If you’ve never tried it, you’re in for a treat! This creamy, spiced pie uses beans as the base, offering a smooth texture and warm, comforting taste. Let’s dive into how you can make your own bean pie at home with a simple, easy-to-follow recipe.
What Is Bean Pie?
Bean pie is a traditional dessert that originated in the 1930s, popularized by the Nation of Islam community. It’s made primarily from cooked white beans, such as navy beans, cannellini, or pinto beans, blended with sugar, spices, and dairy to create a custard-like filling. The beans provide a creamy texture without a strong bean flavor, making it a unique but delicious alternative to pumpkin or sweet potato pie.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a classic bean pie, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 (15-ounce) cans of white beans (cannellini, navy, or pinto beans work well), drained
– 1 stick (about ½ cup) melted butter
– 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 unbaked deep-dish pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
These ingredients combine to create a sweet, warmly spiced filling with a smooth texture and a golden-brown top when baked.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bean Pie
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pie Crust
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling to help it hold its shape during baking.
2. Process the Beans
Place the drained beans in a food processor and pulse until they are partially smooth. It’s okay if some small chunks remain at this stage; you’ll blend everything more thoroughly later. This step helps the beans become creamy and easier to mix with the other ingredients.
3. Mix the Filling Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the evaporated milk, then beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Stir in the flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg to infuse the filling with warm, comforting spices.
4. Combine Beans with the Mixture
Add the processed beans to the wet mixture and mix until combined. To achieve a silky smooth texture, transfer the entire filling to a food processor and blend until completely smooth. This step ensures your pie filling is creamy without lumps.
5. Fill the Pie Crust and Bake
Pour the smooth filling into the chilled pie crust. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills and bake at 450°F for 15 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35 to 45 minutes, or until the pie is set and the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when done.
6. Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. Bean pie can be served warm or cold, and it’s often enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for extra flavor.
Tips for a Perfect Bean Pie
– Bean Choice: Navy beans and cannellini beans are popular for their mild flavor and creamy texture, but pinto beans also work well and add a slightly different color and taste.
– Spices: Feel free to adjust cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste, or add a pinch of allspice or cloves for a more complex spice profile.
– Pie Crust: Use a deep-dish pie crust to hold the custard filling well. You can make your own or buy pre-made crusts for convenience.
– Smooth Filling: Don’t skip the final blending step in the food processor—it makes the difference between a lumpy and a velvety pie.
– Serving Suggestions: Bean pie tastes great with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Why Try Bean Pie?
Bean pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a piece of culinary history with roots in African American culture and the Nation of Islam. It’s also an economical and nutritious option, as beans provide protein and fiber while keeping the pie moist and creamy. Plus, it’s a great way to surprise your family and friends with a unique twist on traditional holiday pies.
If you enjoy pumpkin pie or sweet potato pie, you’ll likely appreciate the similar texture and warm spices in bean pie. It’s a comforting, sweet treat that’s easy to make and sure to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation.
Bean pie is a delightful, creamy dessert that combines the unexpected ingredient of beans with classic pie spices and a buttery crust. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can bake a pie that’s both delicious and steeped in tradition. Give it a try, and you might just discover your new favorite pie!