Sugar Cream Pie Recipe
Sugar Cream Pie is the kind of dessert that whispers sweet nothings to your soul. It has a delightful, creamy filling that is both rich and comforting, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. This pie is a nostalgic nod to simpler times, often found at family gatherings, and it evokes fond memories with every slice. With just a handful of ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll find yourself enamored with this sweet treasure that’s sure to please everyone at your table.
Why I Love This Recipe
This Sugar Cream Pie recipe is a treasure trove of simplicity and flavor. What I adore most about it is how easy it is to whip up, yet it leaves a lasting impression with its creamy texture and sweet flavor. The combination of sugar, cornstarch, and milk creates a luscious filling that practically melts in your mouth. Topping it off with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar adds a warm touch that elevates the entire dessert. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a Tuesday night, this pie feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients at a Glance
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pastry crust – This forms the foundation for our pie, providing a flaky texture.
- 1 cup sugar – Sweetness is key in this recipe, giving the pie its name.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch – This acts as a thickening agent, ensuring your filling is perfectly smooth.
- 2 cups milk – Whole milk works best for that creamy consistency.
- 1/4 cup butter, cubed – Butter adds richness and depth to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A touch of vanilla enhances the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar – A delightful topping that adds a hint of spice.
Toolbox for This Recipe
- 9-inch pie pan – Essential for holding your crust and filling.
- Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk – To ensure there are no lumps in your filling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are crucial for the perfect pie.
- Spatula – Useful for spreading the filling into the crust evenly.
Sugar Cream Pie Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pie will bake evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar and cornstarch, whisking them together until well blended. Gradually stir in the milk, ensuring that there are no lumps.
Step 3: Cook the Mixture
Transfer the mixture to a saucepan over medium heat. Continuously stir until it thickens and starts to bubble. This process should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Add Butter and Vanilla
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the cubed butter and vanilla extract until the butter is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 5: Fill the Crust
Pour the filling into the unbaked pastry crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the filling has set.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, sprinkle the top with cinnamon sugar for that perfect finishing touch. Serve and enjoy!
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
- Milk – You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Cinnamon Sugar – For a twist, try using pumpkin pie spice in place of cinnamon sugar during the fall.
- Butter – Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free alternative to butter.
- Pastry Crust – A graham cracker crust can provide a different flavor profile and texture.
Problems & Prevention
While making Sugar Cream Pie is relatively straightforward, there are a few common issues to be aware of:
- Filling is too runny – Ensure that you cook the mixture long enough until it thickens properly. If it’s still runny after baking, it may need more cornstarch or a longer cook time.
- Burnt crust – To prevent this, you can cover the edges of the crust with foil halfway through baking.
- Lumpy filling – Whisk the sugar and cornstarch thoroughly and make sure to stir continuously while cooking.
- Crust shrinking – Make sure to chill your pie crust before filling and baking to help it maintain its shape.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This Sugar Cream Pie can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect choice for gatherings. Here are some tips for storage:
- Make Ahead – Prepare the pie up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
- Leftovers – Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days.
- Freezing – While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pie for up to a month. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Ask the Chef
Can I use a store-bought crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save you time and is a great option if you’re short on time or not in the mood to make your own. Just follow the package instructions for pre-baking if required.
What can I do if my filling doesn’t thicken?
If your filling doesn’t thicken, it may need a little more time on the heat. Keep stirring and cooking until it reaches the desired consistency. If it’s still not thickening, you can mix a bit more cornstarch with cold milk and add it to the pan, cooking it for a few more minutes.
Can I add other flavors to the filling?
Yes! You can experiment with different flavorings like almond extract or even a splash of bourbon for a unique twist. Just be careful to not overpower the sweet cream flavor.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the edges are golden brown and the filling appears set. It should jiggle slightly in the center when you gently shake the pie, but it will firm up as it cools.
Final Bite
The beauty of this Sugar Cream Pie lies in its simplicity and the way it brings people together. Each slice is a reminder of home, of love, and of the sweet moments we cherish in life. Whether you’re baking this for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, it’s a recipe that promises to create joy and delight. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to experience the magic of this classic dessert. You’ll be savoring the creamy, sweet goodness in no time!
Sugar Cream Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of sweetness, a comforting hug on a plate, and a delicious way to create new memories. The Sugar Cream Pie recipe is truly a timeless addition to any dessert table, inviting everyone to indulge in its creamy charm. So, what are you waiting for? Get baking!
Sugar Cream Pie Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar and cornstarch, whisking together until well blended. Gradually stir in the milk, ensuring no lumps.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens and starts to bubble (about 5-7 minutes).
- Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in cubed butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Step 5: Pour the filling into the unbaked pastry crust, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and filling is set.
- Step 7: Allow to cool completely at room temperature, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before serving.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk.
- Try using pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon sugar for a seasonal twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
