Sugar Cream Pie Recipe: Sugar Cream Pie, often referred to as Hoosier Pie, is a smooth, custard-like dessert with a rich, creamy filling and a buttery crust. Unlike traditional custard pies, it doesn’t rely heavily on eggs for structure. Instead, its silky texture comes from cream, sugar, and cornstarch that thicken beautifully together. This pie is both indulgent and simple, offering a balance of sweetness without being overly heavy. When you take that first bite, the creamy filling almost melts on your tongue, while the crust provides a delicate crunch. If you love desserts that are straightforward yet deeply satisfying, Sugar Cream Pie will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
The Origins and Popularity of Sugar Cream Pie
Sugar Cream Pie holds a special place in Midwestern culinary history, especially in Indiana, where it’s often called the state’s unofficial pie. Early settlers appreciated its simplicity since it could be made with basic pantry staples, even in the dead of winter. The pie became popular because it didn’t require fresh fruit or complex ingredients, making it an economical yet comforting dessert. Over time, it evolved into a beloved family recipe, passed down through generations. Today, bakeries across Indiana proudly feature Sugar Cream Pie, and many home bakers still prepare it during holidays and family gatherings. Its creamy texture, nostalgic charm, and ease of preparation make it a timeless dessert worth celebrating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons why Sugar Cream Pie deserves a spot in your kitchen. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few pantry staples like sugar, cream, and butter, you can whip up a pie that feels luxurious and homemade. Second, it’s versatile—you can enjoy it warm, chilled, or even slightly frozen for a refreshing twist. Third, this pie doesn’t demand advanced baking skills; even beginners can achieve excellent results. It’s also a great make-ahead dessert since it sets beautifully in the fridge overnight. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe guarantees smiles and requests for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Core Ingredients for the Filling
To create the luscious, creamy filling of Sugar Cream Pie, you’ll need:
- Granulated sugar – the star ingredient that provides sweetness.
- Heavy cream – gives the pie its silky texture and rich flavor.
- Cornstarch – acts as the thickening agent, replacing the need for many eggs.
- Unsalted butter – adds depth, richness, and a smooth finish.
- Pure vanilla extract – enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
These five ingredients form the heart of the pie. Each plays a unique role: sugar sweetens, cream smooths, butter enriches, cornstarch thickens, and vanilla ties everything together. The simplicity of these ingredients is what makes Sugar Cream Pie so special—it’s proof that you don’t need a long list of items to create a dessert that’s memorable and delicious.
Essential Crust Options (Homemade or Store-Bought)
The crust is the foundation of your pie, and you have two great options:
- Homemade Pie Crust – A classic buttery crust made with flour, butter, salt, and cold water. It’s flaky, tender, and adds a homemade touch to your dessert.
- Store-Bought Pie Crust – Perfect for when you’re short on time. Choose a good-quality frozen or refrigerated pie crust for convenience without compromising taste.
No matter which you choose, the crust’s job is to provide structure and a pleasant contrast to the creamy filling. For an extra touch, you can blind bake the crust first, ensuring it stays crisp even after the filling is added.
Optional Ingredients to Enhance Flavor
While the traditional recipe is delightfully simple, you can customize your pie with a few optional ingredients:
- Ground cinnamon – for a warm, spiced flavor sprinkled on top.
- Nutmeg – adds a subtle, aromatic note.
- Brown sugar – for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
- Caramel drizzle or chocolate shavings – for a modern twist.
These additions aren’t necessary, but they can make your pie uniquely yours. Experiment with toppings and spices to find the version you love most.
Tools and Equipment Required
Basic Kitchen Tools
To make this pie successfully, you’ll need some everyday kitchen tools:
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk or electric hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Saucepan
Having these tools ready will make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable.
Baking Equipment for Best Results
- 9-inch pie dish (glass or ceramic works best)
- Rolling pin (if making homemade crust)
- Baking weights or dried beans (for blind baking)
- Cooling rack
These pieces of equipment ensure that your pie bakes evenly, sets properly, and cools without issues. Even if you’re new to baking, having the right tools makes a noticeable difference in the outcome.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sugar Cream Pie
Step 1 – Preparing the Pie Crust
The crust sets the stage for your creamy filling. If you’re making a homemade crust, start by combining flour, a pinch of salt, and cold butter cut into cubes. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Wrap it in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes. Once chilled, roll it out and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim excess dough and crimp the edges for a decorative look.
For a store-bought crust, simply place it in the pie dish, pressing gently to fit. To keep the crust from getting soggy, blind bake it. Line the crust with parchment paper, fill with baking weights or dried beans, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden. This ensures the crust holds up beautifully once the creamy filling is added.
Step 2 – Mixing the Creamy Filling
Now comes the heart of the pie—the luscious, silky filling. In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar and cornstarch until well combined. This step ensures that the cornstarch blends evenly and prevents lumps later on. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously, creating a smooth mixture. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and a generous splash of vanilla extract for depth of flavor.
Set the saucepan over medium heat and keep whisking as the mixture warms. You’ll notice it starting to thicken within a few minutes. Patience is key here—rushing can cause the filling to scorch or clump. Continue stirring until the mixture reaches a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in unsalted butter, letting it melt completely into the filling. The butter not only enriches the flavor but also gives the filling a glossy finish.
This mixture should be smooth, thick, and silky—ready to pour into your prepared crust. If you want an extra velvety texture, strain the filling through a fine mesh sieve before adding it to the crust.
Step 3 – Cooking the Filling on the Stove
Unlike many pies that rely on baking to set the filling, Sugar Cream Pie requires a quick stovetop step before going into the oven. With the saucepan still warm, continue stirring the filling gently for about 5–7 minutes. This helps the cornstarch fully activate, ensuring your pie sets beautifully once chilled.
Keep an eye on the consistency—it should coat the back of a spoon without running off immediately. If it feels too thin, give it a few more minutes over low heat. If it thickens too much, whisk in a tablespoon of cream to loosen it up. The goal is a creamy, custard-like texture that holds shape but remains silky and spreadable.
This stovetop step is what makes Sugar Cream Pie unique compared to other custard-based desserts. It guarantees that dreamy smoothness while avoiding the risk of an undercooked or runny center. Once ready, remove the saucepan from the heat and prepare to transfer the filling to the crust.
Step 4 – Pouring and Setting the Filling in the Crust
Carefully pour the warm filling into your pre-baked crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure it fills every corner. The filling should sit just below the rim of the crust to prevent overflow during baking.
At this stage, you can also add optional flavor enhancers. A light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg over the top creates a beautiful finish and adds a hint of warmth. For a modern twist, drizzle a bit of caramel over the surface before baking—it will swirl into the filling and create gorgeous marbling.
Once filled, allow the pie to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before moving it into the oven. This brief pause helps the filling settle, reducing the chances of bubbling or uneven textures during baking.
Step 5 – Baking and Final Touches
Place the filled pie in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25–30 minutes. The pie should look slightly set but still have a gentle jiggle in the center—it will firm up as it cools. Avoid overbaking, as this can cause cracks on the surface or a rubbery texture.
Once out of the oven, transfer the pie to a cooling rack. Allow it to cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour before moving it to the refrigerator. Chill for 4–6 hours, or ideally overnight, to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
Before serving, consider adding finishing touches. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar gives a traditional look, while whipped cream, chocolate curls, or a drizzle of caramel sauce add a modern flair. The first slice might be a little messy, but every bite will be worth it.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Sugar Cream Pie
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping blind baking – leads to a soggy crust.
- Not whisking enough – can cause lumpy filling.
- Overbaking – results in cracks and a rubbery texture.
- Cutting too soon – the pie needs time to set properly.
Pro Tips from Experienced Bakers
- Use cold butter for the crust—it creates flaky layers.
- Strain the filling for a smoother finish.
- Chill overnight for the best texture.
- Experiment with toppings, but keep the base recipe simple—it shines on its own.
Variations of Sugar Cream Pie
Traditional Hoosier Style
The most authentic version of Sugar Cream Pie is the Hoosier style, hailing from Indiana. This version sticks to the basics—sugar, cream, butter, cornstarch, and vanilla—with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before baking. It’s rustic, simple, and timeless, the way early settlers enjoyed it. The Hoosier style relies on minimal ingredients, proving that you don’t need fancy add-ons to create something unforgettable. If you’re aiming for tradition, this is the variation to try first.
Cinnamon-Topped Sugar Cream Pie
For those who enjoy a touch of spice, a cinnamon-topped version adds warmth and depth. Right before baking, dust the top of the filling with a generous layer of cinnamon sugar. During baking, it caramelizes slightly, creating a thin crusty layer that complements the creamy filling underneath. This small adjustment elevates the pie without altering its classic flavor profile.
Chocolate or Caramel Twist
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a modern twist by adding chocolate or caramel. A drizzle of caramel before baking creates beautiful swirls and a richer, buttery sweetness. For chocolate lovers, you can stir in a few tablespoons of cocoa powder into the filling or top the chilled pie with chocolate shavings. These versions make the pie more indulgent and perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
How to Store and Serve Sugar Cream Pie
Refrigeration and Shelf Life
After baking, Sugar Cream Pie must be cooled completely before storing. Place it in the refrigerator, loosely covered with plastic wrap or foil. Properly stored, it will last up to 5 days. The flavors often improve as it chills, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze Sugar Cream Pie! Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. While the texture might be slightly softer after freezing, the flavor remains delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Sugar Cream Pie is versatile when it comes to serving:
- Serve it chilled for a refreshing, creamy dessert.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream for a light, airy contrast.
- Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- For an elegant touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate ganache.
Whether served plain or with extras, this pie always delivers comfort and indulgence in every slice.
Nutritional Information of Sugar Cream Pie
Calorie Breakdown
On average, one slice (1/8th of a 9-inch pie) contains approximately:
- Calories: 320–350
- Fat: 15–18g
- Carbohydrates: 40–45g
- Protein: 3–5g
- Sugar: 25–30g
Keep in mind that these values may vary based on the crust and additional toppings used. While it’s not exactly a low-calorie dessert, it’s certainly worth enjoying in moderation.
Healthier Alternatives
If you want to lighten up the recipe:
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Use less sugar or replace part of it with a sugar substitute.
- Try a whole wheat crust or even a nut-based crust for added nutrients.
- Add a touch of fruit toppings (like fresh berries) for natural sweetness.
With small adjustments, you can enjoy a lighter version of Sugar Cream Pie without losing its signature creaminess.
FAQs about Sugar Cream Pie Recipe
1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the filling will be less rich and slightly thinner. For best results, use at least half-and-half.
2. How long does Sugar Cream Pie last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 5 days when properly refrigerated.
3. Do I need to blind bake the crust?
Yes, blind baking prevents the crust from becoming soggy once the creamy filling is added.
4. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s even better when made the night before since it needs time to set.
5. What toppings go well with Sugar Cream Pie?
Whipped cream, cinnamon sugar, caramel drizzle, or chocolate shavings all pair beautifully.
Conclusion
Sugar Cream Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a piece of history, a taste of comfort, and a reminder that simplicity can be truly indulgent. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a pie that feels luxurious yet homely. Whether you stick to the traditional Hoosier style or experiment with cinnamon, caramel, or chocolate variations, this pie is guaranteed to impress. Serve it chilled, share it with loved ones, and watch it disappear slice by slice.
