French-Canadian Sugar Pie I
A rich, creamy French-Canadian sugar pie with a caramel-like sweetness from maple syrup and brown sugar, perfect for gatherings or comforting desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the egg yolks, brown sugar, maple syrup, evaporated milk, and butter.
- In another bowl, beat the egg whites until they form firm peaks.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture with a spatula, incorporating air without deflating.
- Pour the mixture into a prepared pie crust.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until the filling is set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light. If you don't have maple syrup, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup, but it will alter the taste. Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when beaten. Folding gently is key to maintaining the fluffy texture. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
This sugar pie is best enjoyed chilled, topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving alongside Montine'S Fruitcake during holiday gatherings for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sugar pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat, place slices in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to retain the texture without drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French-Canadian Sugar Pie I contains roughly 890 calories, with 19g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), iron (23% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sugar pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
What can I use if I don't have evaporated milk?
You can easily substitute evaporated milk with a mixture of regular milk and a bit of heavy cream. Use 2 parts milk to 1 part cream to achieve a similar richness. Alternatively, you can use unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free option, but it may slightly change the flavor.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle but doesn’t look liquid. It should also be golden brown on top. Keep in mind that it will continue to firm up as it cools, so avoid overbaking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).