Today, we're diving into a classic Midwest dessert: the Traditional Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie. This pie is rich, creamy, and has a sweet flavor that truly embodies comfort. It's perfect for showcasing simple ingredients in a delightful way.
The magic starts with an unbaked 9-inch pie crust, which serves as the vessel for our creamy filling. Granulated sugar and brown sugar create a balanced sweetness, while cornstarch thickens the mixture to the ideal consistency. The richness comes from heavy cream, which, when combined with unsalted butter, provides a luxurious texture. A touch of vanilla extract enhances the flavor, and a sprinkle of ground nutmeg adds warmth and depth. A pinch of salt rounds everything out beautifully.
This pie is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs wonderfully with a light, fruity dessert wine to complement its creamy richness.
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to get things ready. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt until they're well combined. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously. It's important to whisk as you pour to prevent any lumps from forming. Once smooth, stir in your melted butter and vanilla extract. The butter should be melted but not too hot — this way, it blends seamlessly without cooking the mixture.
Pour this creamy concoction into your unbaked pie crust. Take a spatula and gently smooth the top. This will help it bake evenly. Then, sprinkle the ground nutmeg evenly across the surface for that lovely aromatic touch.
Place the pie in your preheated oven and let it bake for 10 minutes. Afterward, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 35-40 minutes. You'll know it's done when the filling is set and the top has a light golden hue.
Once baked, allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature. This is crucial for setting the filling. After cooling, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before serving. Chilling enhances the pie's texture and flavor.