Sweet & Sumptuous: Southern Indiana Brown Sugar Pie Recipe
The moment I come across a Southern Brown Sugar Pie, my heart is filled with warmth and excitement. This is one recipe that truly captures the essence of the southern U.S.A, and one that will certainly make your taste buds dance. As a chef who specializes in southern-style cuisine, let me assure you that if you enjoy sweet treats and desserts, then this Southern Indiana Brown Sugar Pie recipe is a must-try!
With its rich, creamy texture and delectable caramel flavor, this dessert has won the hearts of many. It’s a versatile dessert that can be easily tailored to your liking – ranging from a sugar cream pie to a more custard-like filling. It’s perfect for any occasion – be it a family gathering, Thanksgiving dinner or a simple treat to satisfy your sweet tooth.
This recipe has been passed down generations among my peers in Indiana. It’s often referred to as the state’s unofficial pie due to its popularity there. In this recipe article, I will share with you the secrets to making this traditional Indiana treat, as well as tips for perfect results (and trust me; they are worth mastering!).
So get ready to taste the sweetness of Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie in every bite! Join me on this journey; I promise it’s worth it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a warm, homemade pie fresh from the oven. And if you’re a fan of southern-style desserts, this Southern Indiana Brown Sugar Pie Recipe is a must-try.
What sets this recipe apart from other sugar pies is its rich and complex flavor. The combination of both light and dark brown sugar creates a depth of sweetness while the addition of flour helps to thicken the custard filling for a creamy yet sturdy texture.
But what really elevates this pie is the use of Hoosier sugar cream – a specialty ingredient found only in Indiana. This thick, heavy cream has a buttery, caramel-like flavor and gives the pie an indulgent richness that will have you coming back for more.
Not only is this dessert delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to switch up your usual dessert routine without having to dive into anything too complicated (like a pecan pie).
So if you’re looking for something sweet, simple and uniquely satisfying, give this Southern Indiana Brown Sugar Pie recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredient List
- 1 pie crust, deep dish
- 2 cups dark brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups heavy cream
This recipe includes some common ingredients such as eggs, salt, flour and vanilla extract. However, what makes this pie special is the combination of both dark and light brown sugar. The dark brown sugar provides a rich molasses flavor, while the light brown sugar adds a caramel sweetness. Additionally, we use heavy cream instead of milk for a custard-like texture that gives the pie its signature richness. It is important to use a deep dish pie crust to accommodate all of the delicious filling in this recipe.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a bowl, mix 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Add in 5 tablespoons unsalted butter and 3 tablespoons of water. Mix well and create a dough ball.
Roll the dough into the pie shell, trim the excess to fit a 9-inch deep dish pie pan, and crimp as desired. Using a fork, gently poke holes throughout the bottom of the pie crust. Bake until the crust is golden brown.
Step 2: Prep the Brown Sugar Filling
In a mixing bowl or a stand mixer, beat together 3 eggs until fluffy. Add in 3/4 cup dark brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup heavy cream slowly while mixing on low speed. Afterward, add in 1/2 cup evaporated milk or half-and-half and mix again.
Step 3: Add the Flour Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine=1/4 cup cornstarch, two cups of dark or light brown sugar, and one teaspoon of salt. Mix well before gradually adding it to the filling mixture. Combine them after each addition.
Step 4: Flavor Enhancers
Add in one teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the taste of your Sugar Cream Pie even more.
Step 5: Bake!
Pour the filling mixture into the crust-covered pie pan. Bake at 350°F for approximately an hour or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into your southern-style concoction.
Step 6: Chill and Serve!
Remove your freshly baked pie from the oven once it’s ready and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating it. Serve it cold with whipped cream on top or your favourite beverage for a sweet treat.
Conclusion
There you have it, a detailed recipe for one of the most quintessential pie recipes in Southern Indiana! Making Brown Sugar Pie Recipe isn’t that difficult, and you can make several pies ahead of time for those special family get-togethers. Always remember that your Sugar Cream Pie only shines when you’ve made it with love and careful attention. Happy baking!
Substitutions and Variations
Allow me to share with you, dear reader, some possible variations on this exceptional Southern Indiana Brown Sugar Pie recipe. While the original recipe is a must-try dessert that will undoubtedly leave your taste buds spellbound, making subtle changes to the recipe can bring new dimensions of flavor to the dish.
Firstly, for a slightly different twist on the recipe, consider switching out the brown sugar for white granulated sugar. This substitution will create a rich and creamy Sugar Cream Pie, which is as heavenly as it sounds!
Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for an almost decadent dessert, try adding chopped pecans into the mix. Simply sprinkle these over the pie’s top before popping them into the oven for baking. The result is an indulgent pecan custard pie that’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Adding a splash of evaporated milk or heavy cream to the custard filling can also take this phenomenal pie recipe to new heights. These substitutions will create not only a delectably silky texture but also add richness and depth of flavor that is hard to ignore.
Lastly, while the recipe ingredients include a pre-made crust, experimenting with different pie crusts can add even more interest to this classic southern dessert. From graham cracker crusts to nutty ones like pecan or almond-based crusts; there’s no end to curiosities you can explore.
In conclusion, while Southern Indiana Brown Sugar Pie is a culinary delight in its own right, these simple changes and variations show just how versatile this classic recipe can be.
Serving and Pairing
This Southern Indiana Brown Sugar Pie is a delicious dessert that deserves an amazing presentation. When ready to serve, dust the top of the pie with some additional brown sugar and sprinkle some pecans on it. The final result will be an irresistible, mouthwatering dessert that will make your taste buds dance.
For pairing, you can serve the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the sweetness of the pie with the creaminess of the ice cream. Another great pairing option is a cup of coffee or tea, as this pie’s sweetness pairs perfectly with a hot drink.
This sugary delight makes for a perfect dessert after a hearty dinner or for special occasions such as Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings, where pies take center stage on dessert tables.
Overall, this Southern treat is sure to delight anyone who loves a good custard pie or pecan pie. Its flavor profile is unique, and its texture is exceptionally smooth, making it an excellent dessert worth serving and sharing.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
The beauty of this Southern Indiana Brown Sugar Pie Recipe is that it can be made ahead of time and still retain its delicious flavor. This means you can prepare it a day or two before your event or dinner, allowing you to focus on other things on the day of your gathering.
To make ahead of time, follow the recipe as is and let the pie cool completely before storing. Once it has cooled, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil, plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and place it in the fridge. The pie will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When it’s time to serve, you can enjoy this pie cold, but if you want to warm it up, simply reheat it in the oven. To reheat the pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) then remove the wrapping from the pie and place it on a baking sheet. Heat for around 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
If you have leftovers after serving, then store them carefully in the refrigerator or freezer. To reheat leftover pies, place a single portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat in the microwave using short bursts (around 30 seconds). Alternatively, you can bake leftover pieces of pie in the oven following the steps above.
This Brown Sugar Pie Recipe is a true gem when it comes to make-ahead desserts that can store and reheat seamlessly. So be sure to make enough for all your guests because everyone will be back for another slice!
Tips for Perfect Results
To make the best Southern Indiana Brown Sugar pie, there are a few tips I want to share with you based on my experience. These tips will help you to achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your pie.
Firstly, it is important to use high-quality ingredients. Dark brown sugar is the star of this recipe, so make sure you choose a good quality brand that is fresh and not clumpy. It’s better to use light brown sugar over white sugar as it adds a rich molasses flavor to the pie, which is essential for its taste.
Another tip is to preheat your oven for at least 15 minutes before baking the pie. This will ensure that the crust can get crispy and brown evenly. When you are baking your pie, check it frequently after about 45 minutes or so. The best way to see if the pie is done is by gently shaking it; if there’s little to no jiggle in the center of the pie filling, then it’s ready.
If you have any leftover custard from the filling, don’t throw it out! You can easily transform it into pudding by adding some cornstarch and evaporated milk. Keep stirring until it thickens and becomes a lovely dessert custard. You can use this in other desserts like trifle or as a topping for your fruit salad.
Adding vanilla extract enhances the flavor of your pie, but be careful not to add too much as it can overpower other flavors in your recipe. I recommend using only one teaspoon of vanilla extract per recipe.
Lastly, don’t forget to decorate your Southern Indiana Brown Sugar Pie with whipped cream and chopped pecans just before serving. The whipped cream provides a nice contrast to the sweet filling while pecans add a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with this custard-like dessert.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with a perfect Southern Indiana Brown Sugar Pie that everyone will love!
FAQ
As you try the recipe, you might have some questions about the process or ingredients, particularly if you are not familiar with southern-style cuisine. To ensure that you will get to enjoy this dessert to its fullest potential and clear out uncertainties, here are some frequently asked questions and their corresponding answers.
What is the state pie of Indiana?
Looking for a tasty way to celebrate National Pie Day on January 23? Give sugar cream pie a try! This delectable dessert hails from eastern Indiana and has roots dating back to the early 1800s when it was beloved by Quaker communities.
How much molasses do you add to sugar to make brown sugar?
For this recipe, you will need 1 cup of granulated sugar which is the equivalent of 200g. To achieve the perfect brown sugar, add 1 tablespoon of unsulphured molasses. If you prefer your brown sugar to be darker, increase the molasses to 2 tablespoons.
How long does sugar pie last in the fridge?
Once your sugar pie is done baking and has cooled down, it’s important to cover it up well before putting it in the fridge. It’s best to wrap it up with either some aluminum foil or plastic wrap for optimal freshness. With the right storage, your sugar pie can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days without any issues.
How do you make brown sugar with white sugar and molasses?
Creating dark brown sugar from white sugar requires mixing in two tablespoons of molasses for every one cup of granulated sugar. Stir with a fork, and store in an airtight container. For those starting with light brown sugar, simply adding one tablespoon of molasses to every one cup of sugar will do the trick.
What is sugar cream pie made of?
The delightful sugar cream pie, also referred to as sugar pie or Hoosier pie, is a custard pie entailing a simple mixture of flour, butter, cream, and sugar topped with cinnamon sugar. This particular pie is categorized as a “desperation pie” as it requires no eggs to create the delicious custard filling.
Bottom Line
This Southern Indiana Brown Sugar Pie recipe is a must-try dessert for anyone who loves sweet and heavenly desserts. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, this sugar cream pie is sure to impress your loved ones and guests.
As you prepare to bake this pie, keep in mind the tips provided in this recipe article, such as using dark brown sugar for a richer flavor and making your own pie crust from scratch to achieve the perfect texture. You can also experiment with variations such as adding pecans or serving it with whipped cream.
In conclusion, this recipe must be added to your list of favorite pie recipes. It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit at any gathering or event. Don’t hesitate any longer; make this Southern Indiana Brown Sugar Pie today and experience the joy of homemade decadence!
Southern Indiana Brown Sugar Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 (9 inch) unbaked pie shells
- 3 cups dark brown sugar, firmly packed
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
Instructions
- In large mixing bowl, combine ingredients in order given.
- Pour into pie shell.
- Bake in 350 oven for 30 minutes.