The Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie, also known as Indiana’s state pie, is a creamy, eggless dessert with a rich vanilla custard filling and a caramelized cinnamon-sugar topping. This easy-to-make pie requires simple pantry ingredients and delivers a flavor reminiscent of a snickerdoodle cookie.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
2 cups heavy whipping cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

Directions

Prepare the Pie Crust: If using homemade dough, press it into a 9-inch pie plate, line with parchment paper and pie weights, and bake fully according to your recipe. Remove weights for the last 15 minutes. Cool completely.
Mix Sugar and Cornstarch: In a saucepan (off heat), whisk together ¾ cup sugar and ¼ cup cornstarch until well combined.
Cook the Filling: Add 2 cups heavy cream and 4 tablespoons butter to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, continue to cook and stir for 1 minute until thickened.
Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the hot custard into the cooled, fully baked pie crust.
Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Drizzle 2 tablespoons melted butter over the custard, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
Bake and Broil: Place the pie on the center rack of a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. Then, set the oven to broil on HIGH and broil the pie for 1 minute to caramelize the topping. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (1/8 of pie):

Calories: 336
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 48mg
Sodium: 192mg
Total Carbohydrates: 33g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 3g

The History of Sugar Cream Pie: A Hoosier Tradition

Sugar Cream Pie, often dubbed as the “state pie of Indiana,” has deep roots in American culinary history, particularly within the state of Indiana. The pie is a simple yet beloved dessert that reflects the frugality and ingenuity of early settlers who were often constrained by limited ingredients. The pie’s basic ingredients—sugar, cream, butter, and a pinch of cinnamon—were staples in many kitchens, particularly in the rural areas where this pie originated.

While the exact origin of Sugar Cream Pie is debated, it’s widely believed that the pie has been made by Hoosiers (residents of Indiana) for centuries. Its legacy is so strong that in 2009, Indiana declared Sugar Cream Pie its official state pie, acknowledging its historical and cultural importance. Over time, the pie has become a comforting symbol of Indiana’s agricultural heritage and traditional home cooking.

Unlike many other iconic American pies, Sugar Cream Pie does not require eggs, which sets it apart from other custard-style pies. This unique characteristic is often attributed to the influence of Quaker settlers in Indiana, who were known for their resourceful approach to cooking and their reliance on simple, accessible ingredients.

What Makes Sugar Cream Pie So Special

At first glance, the Sugar Cream Pie might seem deceptively simple—just a custard filling in a pie crust, topped with a sprinkling of cinnamon and sugar. However, it’s the balance of flavors and textures that makes this pie truly special. The custard filling is rich, creamy, and smooth, offering a sweet and subtle flavor that is both comforting and indulgent. The cinnamon topping provides a gentle warmth that enhances the sweetness of the cream, making each bite a delightful experience.

The pie’s simplicity also lies in its minimalistic ingredients. There’s no need for fancy spices or exotic flavorings; it’s all about the natural taste of cream, sugar, and butter. This straightforward approach to baking highlights the ingenuity of early cooks who made the most of what was available to them.

Sugar Cream Pie is often compared to other custard pies, such as the famous French crème brûlée or the classic American cream pie, but it stands out due to its use of heavy cream as the base, creating a dense yet smooth filling. This richness gives the pie a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and it pairs wonderfully with a flaky, buttery crust.

The Perfect Pie for Any Occasion

One of the reasons why Sugar Cream Pie remains a favorite in many households is its versatility. It can be served on a variety of occasions, from casual family dinners to formal celebrations. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a summer picnic, or a simple afternoon treat, this pie fits any event, adding a touch of nostalgia and warmth to the table.

The simplicity of the ingredients also makes it an accessible dessert for home bakers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, making Sugar Cream Pie is an approachable task. Its forgiving nature means that even if you don’t have the most precise measurements or top-tier equipment, the pie is still likely to turn out delicious.

Additionally, Sugar Cream Pie can be easily customized to suit different tastes. Some bakers may choose to add a dash of vanilla extract for added flavor, while others might experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or allspice. Some versions even incorporate chocolate or caramel, giving the pie a modern twist while still honoring its traditional roots.

Sugar Cream Pie and Its Connection to Indiana

For many, Sugar Cream Pie is more than just a dessert; it is a symbol of Indiana’s identity. The pie has been part of the state’s culinary fabric for generations, and its connection to Indiana’s history cannot be overstated. As the “Hoosier Pie,” it serves as a reminder of the state’s agricultural heritage and the hardworking farmers who have helped shape Indiana’s economy.

In the early days of settlement, Indiana’s rural farmers relied heavily on the land for sustenance. The ingredients for Sugar Cream Pie—milk, cream, sugar, and butter—were readily available on most farms. With limited access to sugar and other sweeteners, these early settlers would make the most of what they had, resulting in simple, hearty desserts like Sugar Cream Pie.

Today, the pie is still made with many of the same ingredients, reflecting a sense of continuity with Indiana’s agricultural past. Many local bakeries and restaurants in Indiana take pride in offering their own versions of the pie, often using locally sourced ingredients to create a fresh take on the traditional recipe.

For visitors to Indiana, trying a slice of Sugar Cream Pie is often seen as a rite of passage. It’s a way to connect with the state’s history and experience a taste of the past. The pie is a cultural treasure that represents the spirit of Indiana—a place where simplicity meets flavor, and tradition is cherished.

The Role of Sugar Cream Pie in Modern Kitchens

Despite its humble origins, Sugar Cream Pie has found a place in modern kitchens. With the resurgence of interest in traditional cooking and vintage recipes, more people are rediscovering the charm of this classic dessert. Food bloggers, chefs, and home bakers are embracing Sugar Cream Pie as part of the larger trend toward reviving forgotten recipes and celebrating regional culinary traditions.

The pie’s appeal is largely due to its simplicity and ease of preparation. In an age where complicated, multi-step recipes dominate cookbooks and food blogs, the straightforward nature of Sugar Cream Pie is a refreshing change. Its relatively short list of ingredients makes it an ideal recipe for anyone looking to bake a delicious dessert without investing too much time or effort.

Additionally, Sugar Cream Pie fits well into the current trend of comforting, nostalgic foods. As people seek out dishes that provide a sense of warmth and familiarity, this pie’s smooth, creamy filling and cinnamon-spiced topping offer just the right amount of indulgence. In a world that is constantly changing, Sugar Cream Pie serves as a delicious reminder of simpler times.

The Healthier Approach to Sugar Cream Pie

While Sugar Cream Pie is undoubtedly rich and indulgent, there are ways to make it a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. For those who are looking to reduce their calorie intake, there are several substitutions that can be made to lighten the pie without compromising its creamy texture.

For example, using a lighter cream, such as half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt, can reduce the overall fat content while still maintaining the pie’s signature smoothness. Additionally, reducing the amount of sugar or using a sugar substitute can help make the pie a bit healthier without taking away from its sweetness.

Another approach is to opt for a whole wheat or gluten-free pie crust, which can offer additional nutritional benefits. By making these simple swaps, you can enjoy a lighter version of Sugar Cream Pie that still delivers all the comfort and flavor of the original.

Conclusion

Sugar Cream Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a piece of Indiana’s cultural heritage, a symbol of simplicity and resourcefulness, and a beloved treat that has stood the test of time. Its rich, creamy filling, topped with a hint of cinnamon and sugar, offers the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, making it a favorite for people of all ages.

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