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Old-fashioned desserts have a way of stirring nostalgia, don’t they? One such delightful treat is the Old Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie. This lusciously creamy pie, with its rich flavor and simple ingredients, hails from the American Midwest, especially beloved in Indiana during the 19th century. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, this pie serves as the perfect dessert to impress at gatherings or cozy family dinners. When you slice into it, you’re not just serving a dessert; you’re bringing a piece of tradition to the table that invites warmth and togetherness.

What makes this recipe special

Why put in the effort to whip up this Sugar Cream Pie? For starters, it’s budget-friendly and quick to make, with most ingredients likely already in your kitchen. The satisfaction of creating a dessert from scratch without breaking the bank is unmatched! This pie is also kid-approved—its sweet, creamy filling and hint of cinnamon make it a hit for all ages. When it’s holiday season or family brunch time, this pie is a sweet reminder of simpler pleasures and takes you down memory lane with every bite.

"This Sugar Cream Pie is like a warm hug! The perfect combination of creamy sweetness and just the right hint of cinnamon. Definitely a family favorite!" – Emma K.

Preparing Old Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie

This delightful pie comes together in just a few straightforward steps. You’ll start with a pre-baked pie crust and then create a smooth, custard-like filling on the stovetop. It’s essential to stir consistently to avoid lumps and ensure a perfect consistency. The entire process is fairly quick, yet the result feels like a grand achievement.

It’s a unique combination of a few staple ingredients: a pie crust, cornstarch for thickening, sugar, butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. This pie is all about letting the flavors shine through, proving that simplicity often leads to the most delightful outcomes.

What you’ll need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Old Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie:

1 pie crust (at room temperature)
4 tablespoons cornstarch
3/4 cup granulated sugar
4 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
2 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 tablespoons salted butter (to top)
1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (for sprinkling)

Feel free to swap the heavy cream for a lighter cream if you need a twist, though I encourage the full richness for this recipe!

Step-by-step instructions

Traditional Old Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie with a creamy filling and flaky crust.

Ready to make the pie? Let’s dive into the details! Follow these clear steps for a flawless Old Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and place your pie crust onto a baking sheet. This makes it easier to handle when transferring it to and from the oven.
Bake the pie crust for 10-12 minutes to partially cook it—just enough to set it aside while you prepare the filling.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and sugar until well combined.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the cornstarch mixture, melted butter, and heavy whipping cream. Bring this mixture to a boil while stirring constantly until it thickens to a custard-like consistency.
Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and pour the hot cream into your prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle the desired amount of cinnamon sugar over the top.
Bake for an additional 25 minutes, watching carefully to avoid over-browning.
Broil the pie for about 1 minute to achieve a lovely golden finish.
Once baked, cool the pie until it reaches room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least one hour to set properly.
Serve chilled and enjoy!

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving your Old Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie, the key is to keep it simple. A dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the pie’s creamy texture beautifully. Consider adding a sprinkle of additional cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a fun twist. This pie pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of chilled milk, making it a delightful dessert for any occasion.

Storage and reheating tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), you can store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply keep it in its pie dish and wrap it well with plastic wrap. It’s not recommended to freeze Sugar Cream Pie, as the texture can change upon thawing. Always ensure you let the pie cool completely before wrapping it to maintain its freshness.

Helpful cooking tips

Use a store-bought crust for a quicker approach or try making your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
Constant stirring is key when cooking the filling to prevent lumps—getting a friend to help could make it even easier!
If you’re looking for added depth, infuse your cream with a hint of nutmeg or orange zest for an unexpected twist.

Creative twists

While traditionalists may love the classic version, you can easily customize this pie! Think about adding grated chocolate for a mocha element or incorporating seasonal fruits—like chopped apples or pears—into the filling. You could even opt for different spices, like cardamom, to bring new flavors to this already beloved dish.

Common questions

What is the prep time for Sugar Cream Pie?
Expect about 15-20 minutes of preparation time, followed by about an hour of baking and cooling time.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes! Light cream can work, but it may yield a less rich texture. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream can be an intriguing alternative.
How long can I keep the pie in the fridge?
The pie stays fresh for up to three days when stored properly. Make sure it’s covered to avoid drying out.

One bite of this Old Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie will bring you to a wonderful place of comfort and nostalgia. So, gather your ingredients, roll up those sleeves, and let’s make some dessert magic!