Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie is a beloved culinary treasure from the heart of Indiana, a sweet, egg-free custard pie that delivers pure comfort with every rich, vanilla-infused bite. Often garnished with a delicate sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, this classic dessert embodies simplicity and satisfaction, making it an unofficial symbol of Hoosier hospitality.
Deeply rooted in Indiana’s heritage, this iconic dessert was introduced to the state by North Carolina Quakers who settled in the region during the early 1800s. Its humble beginnings belie its lasting appeal, and though an attempt to officially designate it as the Indiana state pie in 2009 was unsuccessful, it remains the quintessential “Hoosier Pie” in the hearts of many. With its creamy texture and sweet, uncomplicated flavor profile, it’s more than just a dessert—it’s a taste of Indiana’s past and present.
Why You Must Make This Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie
If you’re looking for a dessert that offers both nostalgic charm and delicious simplicity, the Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie is an absolute must-try. This classic Indiana delicacy stands out for several compelling reasons:
- A Custard Dream Without Eggs: Imagine the luscious, silky texture of crème brûlée but in a comforting pie form. This recipe achieves that incredible custard-like consistency without a single egg, making it a fantastic option for those with egg allergies or when your pantry is running low on eggs. The simple combination of flour and cream works magic to create a perfectly set, creamy filling.
- Embrace Indiana’s Culinary Heritage: While it may not be the official state pie, the Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie is undeniably the soul food of Indiana. Baking this pie is a wonderful way to connect with the state’s rich history and enjoy a true taste of Americana. It’s a testament to the resourcefulness and culinary traditions of early settlers.
- Effortless Elegance: With a straightforward ingredient list and uncomplicated steps, this pie is surprisingly easy to whip up. Despite its simple preparation, the result is an incredibly elegant and satisfying dessert that will impress family and friends. It’s proof that sometimes, the most delicious things are the least complicated.
- Pure Comfort Food: There’s a reason this pie has endured for centuries. Its sweet, creamy filling, subtly flavored with vanilla and a hint of spice, provides ultimate comfort. It’s the kind of dessert that brings warmth and a smile, perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a special gathering.
My personal journey with this pie began with a touch of nostalgia. Despite being born in South Bend, Indiana, and residing here for decades, the thought of a quintessential Hoosier recipe initially stumped me. While popular choices like pork tenderloin sandwiches are tempting, my sweet tooth always steers me towards dessert. It was then that the legendary Sugar Cream Pie came to mind—a dish I knew locals adored, but one I had yet to truly explore. Inspired by my late father, who affectionately called me his “Hoosier Hotshot,” I embarked on the delightful mission to master this Indiana classic.
How to Make the Perfect Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie
Creating this delicious Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie is a straightforward process that yields a remarkably creamy and flavorful dessert. Follow these simple steps for a perfect pie every time:
- Prepare Your Crust: Begin by fitting your preferred pie dough into a 9-inch pie plate. Crimp the edges decoratively and refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling. This step helps the crust hold its shape and prevents shrinking during baking.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This initial high heat helps to set the crust and create a slight crispness before the filling fully cooks.
- Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt. Whisk them together thoroughly, ensuring there are no lumps of flour. This forms the base of your creamy custard.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract for that signature sweet aroma and flavor.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the luscious filling into your prepared, chilled pie crust. Distribute the grated or finely diced butter evenly over the filling. Gently stir to ensure the butter melts and disperses throughout during baking, adding richness. Finally, sprinkle the top generously with ground cinnamon for an aromatic finish.
- Bake in Two Stages: Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any potential spills and ensure even heat distribution). Bake for an initial 10 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 50-55 minutes, or until the filling is just set and the center has only a slight jiggle. If the crust edges begin to brown too quickly, loosely cover them with aluminum foil.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the pie from the oven and transfer it to a wire cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature or chill it in the refrigerator before serving. This allows the custard to fully set and achieve its optimal texture.
Expert Tips for a Flawless Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie
While the Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie is known for its simplicity, a few expert tips can elevate your baking experience and ensure a truly flawless dessert:
- Embrace Simple Ingredients: The beauty of this pie lies in its basic components: sugar, flour, and heavy cream. These core ingredients create the signature rich, sweet custard filling within a flaky pastry crust. Don’t underestimate the power of quality, fresh ingredients here. A touch of pure vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile significantly.
- Spice It Up (Your Way): Traditionally, nutmeg was the spice of choice for garnishing Sugar Cream Pie. However, cinnamon offers a slightly warmer, more universally appealing flavor that many prefer. Feel free to use either cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a delicate blend of both, to suit your palate. The aroma that fills your kitchen as this pie bakes is truly enticing, regardless of your chosen spice.
- The Magic of Flour (No Eggs Needed!): One of the unique aspects of this pie is that it achieves its custard-like thickness without any eggs. The flour acts as the primary thickening agent. Some recipes might use cornstarch instead, but flour (especially a finely milled flour like Wondra, if you have it) works beautifully to create that smooth, creamy texture. Ensure you whisk the dry ingredients well to prevent lumps.
- Prevent Over-Browning: Keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. If the edges of your pastry crust start to darken too quickly, simply create a loose foil ring to cover the edges. This will protect them from burning while the filling finishes cooking to perfection.
- Don’t Overbake: The key to a creamy custard is to bake it just until it’s set. The center should still have a slight wobble when gently shaken. It will continue to firm up as it cools. Overbaking can lead to a dry or rubbery texture.
- Cool Completely: Patience is key! Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to fully set and makes for cleaner cuts. Serving it at room temperature or chilled are both delightful options.
- Garnish for Elegance: While delicious on its own, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a handful of fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries) can add a beautiful touch and a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. Even my notoriously picky daughter couldn’t resist a slice of this classic Hoosier pie, especially with a little extra flair!
Frequently Asked Questions About Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie
Curious to learn more about this delectable Indiana classic? Here are some common questions and detailed answers about Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie:
The Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie, often simply called “sugar cream pie” in Indiana, traces its origins back to the early 1800s. It is believed to have been brought to the east-central region of Indiana by Quakers who migrated from North Carolina. These early settlers adapted a traditional sugar pie recipe, using readily available ingredients like cream, sugar, and flour to create a simple yet incredibly satisfying dessert that quickly became a regional staple. Its deep roots in the state’s history are why it’s so firmly entrenched in Indiana’s culinary identity.
A cream pie is a type of one-crust pie characterized by its rich, smooth, and often decadent filling. The filling typically consists of milk or cream, sugar, and a thickening agent such as flour or cornstarch. While many cream pies include eggs to enrich and thicken the custard, the Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie is unique for achieving its creamy texture without them. Cream pies are frequently topped with a generous layer of whipped cream, and their crusts can vary widely, from traditional pastry to shortbread, cookie, or graham cracker crusts.
To maintain its freshness, a Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie should be stored in the refrigerator. Once cooled, cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When properly stored, it will remain delicious for up to 3-5 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled or at cool room temperature.
Yes, traditional Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie recipes are indeed egg-free. The creamy, custard-like texture is achieved solely through the thickening power of flour (or sometimes cornstarch) combined with heavy cream and sugar. This makes it a fantastic dessert option for those avoiding eggs, or a convenient choice when you simply don’t have eggs on hand.
Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie is wonderful on its own, but you can enhance the experience with a few simple additions. A dollop of fresh, lightly sweetened whipped cream complements its richness beautifully. Fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, add a lovely pop of color and a touch of tartness that balances the sweetness. A very light dusting of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon can also elevate its presentation.
You May Also Like Other Delicious Pie Recipes:
If the allure of a perfectly baked pie has captured your imagination, here are a few more delectable pie recipes to add to your baking repertoire. From seasonal delights to rich, chocolatey treats, there’s a pie for every craving:
- Salted Caramel Pumpkin Pie from Two Peas and Their Pod – A seasonal favorite with a gourmet twist.
- Perfect Apple Pie – The quintessential American dessert, crisp and sweet.
- Fudgy Brownie Pie – A rich, chocolate lover’s dream in pie form.
- Easy Peach Crumb Pie – Sweet, juicy peaches topped with a delightful crumbly crust.
- Best Banana Cream Pie – A classic, layered with fresh bananas and creamy pudding.
- Plus, explore all my Best Pie Recipes for even more inspiration!
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Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie
20 minutes
55 minutes
1 hour 15 minutes
8 servings
A truly classic Indiana dessert that embodies comfort and simplicity with its rich, egg-free custard and sweet vanilla flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch pastry crust, uncooked (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (Wondra is recommended for easy mixing)
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, grated or cut into tiny pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or nutmeg, if preferred)
Instructions
- Fit the pie dough into a 9-inch pie plate, crimp the edges as desired, and refrigerate the crust until firm, for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt until thoroughly combined.
- Slowly add the heavy cream to the dry ingredients, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the filling mixture into the chilled pie crust. Distribute the grated butter evenly over the filling, gently stirring to disperse it. Sprinkle the top with ground cinnamon.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes at 425ºF (220°C).
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350ºF (175°C) and continue baking for another 50-55 minutes, or until the filling is mostly set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- If the pie crust edges begin to brown too quickly, loosely cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Remove the pie from the oven and transfer it to a wire cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely before serving, either at room temperature or chilled.
Notes
Nutmeg is a more traditional topping for Sugar Cream Pie. Feel free to substitute it for the cinnamon listed in the recipe, or use a blend of both for a nuanced flavor.
Recommended Products
As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.
- USA Pan Bakeware Half Sheet Pan, Warp Resistant Nonstick Baking Pan, Made in the USA from Aluminized Steel – 1050HS
- OXO Good Grips 11-Inch Better Balloon Whisk
- Ceramic pie plate
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
8
Serving Size:
1 slice
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 392
Total Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 107mg
Carbohydrates: 37g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 28g
Protein: 3g
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Addendum: Remembering My Father, “The Dude”
My dad, affectionately known as “The Dude”—a nickname he earned in my high school years for his effortlessly cool demeanor—passed away just two weeks ago. He was a remarkable man, the father of four spirited, independent daughters, whom he loved unconditionally and supported fiercely. His zest for life was infectious, characterized by a passion for mountain climbing, globetrotting adventures, a good cold beer, fine scotch, and a legendary appreciation for clever puns and what my sisters fondly termed “wise-assery.” He also had a soft spot for the thrill of explosives and the warmth of a roaring bonfire, but above all, he cherished his beloved wife, Gretchen.
By day, he was a distinguished Physics professor, but every evening at 5:30 PM, his “girls” would eagerly scamper down Lynn Avenue to greet him as he walked home from the office. Our days would conclude with cherished bedtime stories, comforting bear hugs, and a tender kiss on the forehead accompanied by his heartfelt “God bless you.” His adventurous spirit translated into countless memorable trips abroad, including immersive years spent in Glasgow, Scotland, and Vancouver, British Columbia, as well as unforgettable summers in Aspen and Cortona, Italy. We, his daughters, were always included in these grand adventures. The Dude truly lived his life to the fullest, and through his example, he instilled in us profound values: family, compassion, charity, and education were his unwavering priorities. May he rest in eternal peace.