Southern-Style Pinto Bean Pie

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A unique and comforting dessert with rich, spiced sweetness

Introduction

This Pinto Bean Pie is a delightful twist on traditional Southern desserts, transforming humble beans into a smooth, custard-like filling with warm spices. Similar in concept to a sweet potato or pumpkin pie, this recipe uses blended pinto beans as the base, creating a surprisingly delicious and nutritious treat. The combination of evaporated milk, molasses, and spices yields a deep, caramelized flavor that pairs perfectly with a flaky pie crust.

Perfect for those looking to try something different or use pantry staples creatively, this pie is both economical and satisfying. The preparation is simple—just blend, pour, and bake—making it an excellent choice for beginner bakers or anyone short on time.

Ingredients & Their Purpose

Filling

  • 15.5 oz can pinto beans (rinsed & drained) – Provides a creamy, protein-rich base
  • ¾ cup evaporated milk – Adds richness and smooth texture
  • ¾ cup white sugar + ¼ cup brown sugar – Sweetens and enhances depth
  • 2 large eggs – Binds the filling
  • 2 tbsp melted butter – Contributes richness
  • 1 tbsp molasses – Deepens flavor with caramel notes
  • ½ tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp nutmeg – Warm, aromatic spices
  • ¼ tsp salt – Balances sweetness

Crust

  • 1 (9-inch) prepared pie crust – Convenient and flaky

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep & Blend (10 minutes)

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a blender, combine beans, evaporated milk, sugars, eggs, butter, molasses, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. Blend on high until completely smooth (about 40 seconds).

2. Assemble & Bake (40 minutes)

  1. Pour filling into the unbaked pie crust.
  2. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the center is set (a toothpick should come out clean).
  3. Let cool at least 1 hour before slicing.

3. Serving Suggestions

  • Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  • Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra decadence.
  • Sprinkle with chopped pecans for crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Pie

✔ Unexpectedly delicious – The beans create a velvety texture without a strong “beany” taste.
✔ Budget-friendly – Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
✔ Naturally high in fiber & protein – A slightly healthier dessert option.
✔ Great for potlucks – A unique conversation starter!

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze (without toppings) for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat slices in the microwave or enjoy chilled.

Conclusion

This Pinto Bean Pie is a hidden gem in Southern baking—creamy, lightly spiced, and wonderfully satisfying. While the idea of beans in a dessert might seem unusual, the result is a silky, sweet pie that rivals classic custard pies in both taste and texture.

Perfect for those who enjoy sweet potato pie, pecan pie, or chess pie, this recipe offers a unique twist that’s sure to impress. Whether you serve it at a family gathering or enjoy a slice with coffee, this pie proves that sometimes the most unexpected ingredients make the most memorable desserts.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, toast the pie crust for 5 minutes before adding the filling to prevent sogginess.

Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite pie!

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