Enjoy the lively and tangy flavors of Frosted Orange Pie paired with the thrilling adventure found in "The Vanishing Half" by Brit Bennett, complemented by the fresh sparkle of a Mimosa. Together, these elements create a delightful sensory experience, marrying the pie's citrusy brightness with the book's intricate narrative and the drink's refreshing effervescence. The unique combination captures both the zest for life and the nuances of identity explored in the novel, making it perfect for an afternoon gathering or book club meeting.
Ingredients
For the Crust::
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Orange Filling::
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 3-4 oranges)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Frosting::
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Orange zest, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Crust::
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Make the Orange Filling::
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, milk, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 7-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and fully incorporated.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is fully set.
Prepare the Frosting::
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled pie.
Garnish and Serve::
- Garnish the pie with additional orange zest if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
The Vanishing Half
The Vanishing Half is a powerful, tender, and challenging novel about race, identity, and the many paths that lead to home. This story follows the Vignes twins, two light-skinned Black sisters whose lives diverge dramatically as one passes for white in a different world while the other remains rooted in the community they grew up in. Rich in conflict and compassion, Brit Bennett's storytelling is masterful and leaves the reader with questions about how our past shapes us and how much it defines us.
The Vignes twin sisters will always be identical. Inseparable as children, they ultimately choose to live in two different worlds, one black and one white. An exploration of the American history of passing.
Discussion Questions
- What themes does Brit Bennett explore in The Vanishing Half, and how are they reflected in the characters' lives?
- How does the concept of 'passing' influence the choices and lives of the Vignes sisters?
- Discuss the significance of identity in the novel. How do the characters struggle with who they are, and how does this affect their relationships?
- What role does community play in the story? How does it shape the characters' experiences and decisions?
- How are issues of race and identity portrayed differently in the settings of Louisiana and California within the book?
- What do you think motivated Stella to live her life passing as white, and do you think she ever regrets her choice?
- How does Brit Bennett use the passage of time to develop her characters and the story?
- Discuss the different relationships between mothers and daughters in the novel. How do they impact the characters' journeys?
- How do secrets and lies influence the trajectory of the characters' lives?
- What do you believe the ending suggests about reconciliation and the impact of one's choices?
Authors:
Brit Bennett
ISBN: 0525536299
Publisher: National Geographic Books
Published Date: 2021-01-12
Mimosa
A Mimosa is a classic and refreshing cocktail that pairs perfectly with citrus-infused desserts. Combining the bright flavor of orange juice with the effervescence of champagne, this drink is both elegant and simple, making it a timeless accompaniment to sunny brunches or joyful celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 part chilled champagne
- 1 part chilled orange juice
Instructions
- In a champagne flute, fill half the glass with chilled orange juice.
- Top the glass with chilled champagne, pouring slowly to avoid overflow.
- Gently stir if necessary and garnish with a twist of orange zest if desired.