This pie has a quiet kind of charm. No fruit, no fancy topping, no complicated crust — just a creamy, custard-like filling nestled in a flaky shell and dusted with a hint of nutmeg. It’s called Sugar Cream Pie, and it’s been comforting Indiana kitchens for generations.

I first tried it when my neighbor, originally from Indianapolis, brought one to a summer potluck. I wasn’t expecting much — it looked so simple. But one bite? I was hooked. It’s sweet but not too sweet, silky and rich, and just the right amount of old-fashioned.

This pie is known as Indiana’s “official state pie,” and after making it myself, I totally get why. It uses pantry staples, takes hardly any time to throw together, and tastes like something from your grandma’s table — even if you didn’t grow up with it.

Ingredients for Indiana Sugar Cream Pie Recipe

• 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup cornstarch

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Freshly grated nutmeg or ground cinnamon, for garnish

How to Make Indiana Sugar Cream Pie Recipe

1. Pre-bake the crust. If you haven’t already, bake your pie crust according to package or recipe instructions. Let it cool.

2. Mix the filling. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar and cornstarch. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream until smooth.

3. Cook until thick. Place the pan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles (about 8–10 minutes).

4. Add butter and vanilla. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.

5. Pour and chill. Pour the warm filling into the baked crust. Sprinkle with nutmeg or cinnamon.

6. Set and serve. Let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until set.

Sarah’s Simple Tips

• Don’t skip the stir. Stir constantly while cooking the filling to avoid lumps or burning on the bottom.

• Whole milk = creamier pie. Skim milk won’t give the same richness.

• Nutmeg is traditional. But if you’re not a fan, a pinch of cinnamon works beautifully too.

Flavorful Conclusion

Indiana Sugar Cream Pie is proof that the simplest recipes are often the most comforting. It’s sweet, creamy, and nostalgic — like something out of a vintage recipe box. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering or just craving a cozy dessert with your coffee, this pie always delivers that warm, Midwestern hug on a plate.

Nutrition (per slice, based on 8 slices):

Calories: 360
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Sugar: 28g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 110mg