Old-Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie
A creamy, nostalgic sugar cream pie with a rich vanilla flavor, topped with cinnamon and nutmeg, perfect for comforting desserts and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat milk to warm with butter until the butter melts.
- Mix sugar and cornstarch together with fingers until well-blended.
- Pour the sugar and cornstarch mixture into the warm milk and butter, stirring constantly until it thickens and bubbles like grits.
- Remove from heat and add vanilla, mixing well.
- Pour the mixture into a baked pie shell.
- Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg on top.
- Refrigerate until set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat. If you want to cut down on sweetness, reduce the sugar by a third and add a pinch of salt. To avoid lumps when mixing cornstarch, whisk it with a small amount of the milk before adding it to the pot. This classic pie pairs beautifully with Sweet Fruit Salad for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg for added flavor. This pie is perfect on its own, but you can also complement it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It makes a delightful end to a meal or a sweet treat at any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the pie sets too firmly, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Avoid freezing as the texture can become grainy upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie contains roughly 398 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 16g fat.
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 use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Yes, a store-bought pie crust is a convenient option for this recipe. Just make sure to bake it according to the package instructions before filling it with the sugar cream mixture. This will save you time and still yield a delicious pie.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the pie?
You can adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar amount to suit your taste. Start by decreasing it by 1/4 cup and taste the filling before pouring it into the crust. Remember that the flavors will mellow once chilled, so adjust accordingly.
What can I do if my filling doesn't thicken?
If your filling doesn't thicken, it may be due to not cooking it long enough or not mixing the cornstarch properly. Ensure you cook the mixture until it bubbles and thickens, stirring constantly. If it still doesn't set, you can add a little more cornstarch mixed with water to the filling while it's on the heat.
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).