A Midwestern Classic That’s All About Comfort
If you’ve never tried Sugar Cream Pie, you’re in for a treat. This rich, creamy dessert hails from the Midwest—especially Indiana, where it’s a state treasure. With a custard-like filling that’s thickened on the stovetop and finished in a buttery pie crust, it’s often described as a cross between a vanilla pudding and a chess pie.
And it’s as simple as it is satisfying. No eggs, no fuss—just sugar, cream, and a little magic. Whether you’re from the Hoosier state or just looking for your next favorite dessert, this pie is a guaranteed winner.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Sugar Cream Pie
- No eggs required: Perfect for those with allergies or limited ingredients
- Creamy and comforting: Like vanilla custard in a flaky shell
- Easy to make: Just stir, pour, and bake
- Only a few ingredients: Pantry staples + heavy cream
- Elegant and rustic: Great for holidays or casual gatherings
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour or cornstarch
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ tsp cinnamon (for sprinkling)
- Optional: pinch of salt
👨🍳 How to Make It – Step-by-Step
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
- Pre-bake your pie crust according to package or recipe directions. Let cool completely.
2. Cook the Filling
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar and flour (or cornstarch).
- Gradually add cream, whisking constantly.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir constantly until thickened—about 5–8 minutes.
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and butter until fully melted.
3. Assemble the Pie
- Pour the warm filling into the cooled pie crust.
- Sprinkle the top with cinnamon.
4. Bake
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes to help the filling set.
- Cool to room temperature, then chill for at least 2 hours.
5. Serve
- Slice and enjoy cold or at room temperature. Optional: add a dollop of whipped cream.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- With fresh berries or berry compote
- Lightly dusted with powdered sugar
- With coffee or cold milk
- Alongside shortbread cookies or biscotti
- As part of a holiday pie sampler
🔁 Variations and Twists
- Spiced version: Add nutmeg or cloves for a cozy feel
- Coconut Sugar Cream Pie: Stir in toasted coconut before baking
- Maple twist: Substitute ¼ cup sugar with real maple syrup
- Salted caramel topping: Drizzle after chilling for a decadent finish
- Mini pies: Make in muffin tins for individual servings
📦 Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store covered for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month
- Reheat: Serve chilled or bring to room temp—do not microwave
📊 Nutritional Info (Per Slice)
- Calories: 360
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 32g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 3g
🧠 Expert Tips
- Don’t skip whisking: Prevents lumps and gives the pie a silky finish
- Use full-fat cream: It sets better and gives a richer flavor
- Pre-bake your crust to avoid sogginess
- Let it fully chill before slicing for the cleanest cuts
- Taste your custard before baking—adjust sugar or vanilla if needed
❓ FAQs
Q: Is Sugar Cream Pie the same as chess pie?
Not quite—chess pie uses eggs and often cornmeal. Sugar cream pie is eggless and relies on stovetop thickening.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—use cornstarch instead of flour and a gluten-free crust.
Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
Whole milk works, but the filling may be slightly looser.
Q: Why is it called Hoosier Pie?
Indiana residents (nicknamed Hoosiers) popularized this pie, making it their state dessert.
Q: Do I need to bake the filling?
It’s thickened on the stove, but a short bake helps set and caramelize the top slightly.
✅ Conclusion: A Slice of Midwestern Charm
Sugar Cream Pie is a love letter to simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, it delivers luxurious flavor and creamy comfort. It’s proof that you don’t need eggs, fancy techniques, or complex steps to make something truly special. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday table or a weeknight treat, it’s a pie that’s as humble as it is heavenly.
Print
Sugar Cream Pie – Silky, Eggless, and So Easy to Make
Ingredients
-
1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
¼ cup all-purpose flour or cornstarch
-
2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
2 tbsp unsalted butter
-
½ tsp cinnamon (for sprinkling)
-
Optional: pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
-
Pre-bake your pie crust according to package or recipe directions. Let cool completely.
2. Cook the Filling
-
In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar and flour (or cornstarch).
-
Gradually add cream, whisking constantly.
-
Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir constantly until thickened—about 5–8 minutes.
-
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and butter until fully melted.
3. Assemble the Pie
-
Pour the warm filling into the cooled pie crust.
-
Sprinkle the top with cinnamon.
4. Bake
-
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes to help the filling set.
-
Cool to room temperature, then chill for at least 2 hours.
5. Serve
-
Slice and enjoy cold or at room temperature. Optional: add a dollop of whipped cream.