Print

Old-Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie

Old-fashioned sugar cream pie slice with whipped cream and cinnamon, classic Midwestern dessert.

This Old-Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie is a creamy, nostalgic dessert with deep roots in Midwestern cooking, particularly in Indiana. Made from simple ingredients like heavy cream, sugar, and butter, it’s a classic “desperation pie” born from ingenuity during hard times. Its silky texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a timeless treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
    • Pie Crust:

      • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
      • ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
      • ½ tsp salt
      • 45 tbsp ice water

      Filling:

      • 1 cup granulated sugar
      • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
      • 2 cups heavy cream
      • ½ cup whole milk
      • 1 tsp vanilla extract
      • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
      • Optional: A pinch of ground nutmeg for topping

Instructions

  • Prepare the Pie Crust:

    • Combine flour and salt in a bowl.
    • Add cold butter cubes and cut into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
    • Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together.
    • Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
  • Pre-Bake the Crust:

    • Roll out the chilled dough and press it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges.
    • Chill the crust for 15 minutes, then line it with parchment paper and fill with pie weights.
    • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, then remove weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Cool completely.
  • Make the Filling:

    • In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar and flour.
    • Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk until smooth.
    • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 8-10 minutes).
    • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and melted butter.
  • Assemble and Bake:

    • Pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
    • Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg evenly over the filling.
    • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the filling is set but slightly wobbly in the center.
  • Cool and Serve:

    • Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
    • Slice and serve as is, or top with whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

  

Notes

  • Pro Tip: Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother filling.
  • Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
  • Best enjoyed chilled with a dollop of fresh whipped cream.

Keywords: Old-Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie