Sugar Cream Pie, often hailed as the “Hoosier Pie,” is an iconic dessert deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of the American Midwest, particularly Indiana, where it holds a special place as the state’s official pie. Simple yet incredibly satisfying, it showcases the magic of humble ingredients, transforming pantry staples into a dessert that’s silky, rich, and wonderfully nostalgic.
The origins of Sugar Cream Pie trace back to early settler days, when resourcefulness in the kitchen was paramount. Often associated with Amish and Shaker communities, the recipe was prized for its simplicity, as it required no eggs—an ingredient that was not always easily accessible in rural areas or during colder months. Instead, the pie relies on the magical combination of sugar, flour, cream, and butter to create a custard-like filling that is both decadent and delicate.
Its association with Indiana is so strong that Sugar Cream Pie is lovingly referred to as “Indiana’s Pie.” It embodies the agricultural heritage of the region, as dairy farms were prevalent throughout the state. Families across generations have cherished this dessert, passing their recipes down like heirlooms. Though the basic formula remains largely unchanged, some cooks add their own personal flair—be it a pinch of sea salt, a hint of nutmeg, or even a splash of bourbon for a modern twist.
What makes Sugar Cream Pie so distinctive is its combination of textures and flavors. The filling is smooth, creamy, and rich, contrasting beautifully with the flaky, buttery crust. A dusting of ground nutmeg brings a subtle warmth and spiced aroma that enhances the custard’s sweetness without overwhelming it. Traditionally, the top of the pie achieves a caramelized sheen, lending a subtle burnt-sugar complexity that feels both rustic and sophisticated. This glossy crust can develop naturally in the oven or, for an extra decadent flourish, be brûléed after baking.
Beyond its rustic charm, Sugar Cream Pie has a heartwarming nostalgia that speaks to its purpose as a comfort food. Whether served as a holiday dessert or a simple weeknight indulgence, it evokes memories of family dinners, church potlucks, and simpler times. Though it has grown in popularity beyond Indiana’s borders, this pie remains a hallmark of Midwestern culinary identity—an edible love letter to the region’s history of honest, unpretentious cooking.
Modern home cooks love Sugar Cream Pie not only for its decadent flavor but also for its ease of preparation. The lack of complex ingredients means it can be whipped up with minimal fuss, making it an ideal dessert for both seasoned bakers and those new to the kitchen. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a dollop of freshly whipped cream, and it becomes a dessert that’s irresistible to everyone at the table.
Whether you’re a Hoosier looking to reconnect with your roots or simply a pie enthusiast in search of an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe, Sugar Cream Pie is a timeless choice. With every silky bite, it delivers the sweet comfort of tradition while reminding us of the simple pleasures in life.
Sugar Cream Pie
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 package pre-made pie crust or homemade if preferred
Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream preferably organic for richness
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract pure
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Press the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. Flute the edges for a decorative finish.
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and flour. Gradually whisk in heavy cream until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken. Look for a gentle bubbles around the edges.
- Remove from heat and stir in melted butter and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Sprinkle evenly with ground nutmeg.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before serving. This will ensure the filling sets perfectly.
