Maple Sugar Cream Pie – 5-Min Prep for an Irresistible Hoosier Classic

Maple Sugar Cream Pie is a silky, comforting dessert with deep roots and even deeper flavor. Combining the time-honored tradition of Hoosier Pie with the warmth of maple syrup, this twist on a classic offers everything you could want in a creamy pie—sweetness, smoothness, and a flaky crust that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this is one of those easy pie recipes that delivers impressive results with minimal effort.

Its magic lies in the custard-like filling, which thickens on the stovetop and sets beautifully in the oven. This makes it a foolproof choice for those intimidated by custard pies that require water baths or tempering. If you’re looking for an easy custard dessert that’s cozy and crowd-pleasing, Maple Sugar Cream Pie is the perfect answer. And if you’ve tried other creamy desserts like this vanilla pudding, you’ll appreciate how simple and satisfying this pie can be.

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Why You’ll Fall in Love with Maple Sugar Cream Pie

This pie is often associated with Indiana, where it earned its nickname “Hoosier Pie.” Traditionally, Sugar Cream Pie is made without eggs and features white sugar, cream, and cornstarch. But by swapping in maple syrup, we bring a deeper, more complex sweetness to this already beloved dessert. It’s easy to see why this maple version is quickly becoming a must-have at family gatherings and holidays.

So, why should this Maple Sugar Cream Pie be your next bake? First, it’s simple enough for beginners. You don’t need any advanced baking techniques, and the filling comes together in minutes. Second, it uses basic ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Lastly, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it chilled in the summer or slightly warm in the fall with a mug of tea, it’s a year-round treat.

Ingredients for Maple Sugar Cream Pie

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Maple Sugar Cream Pie at home:

• 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup)
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: cinnamon sugar or a maple crumble topping

How to Make Maple Sugar Cream Pie Step-by-Step

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your pie plate with the crust and crimp the edges neatly. Set it in the fridge while you prepare the filling to keep the crust cold, which helps it bake up nice and flaky.

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Turn the heat to medium and continue stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. This step is crucial, so be patient—it usually takes 6 to 8 minutes.

Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat, and stir in the butter and vanilla until smooth and fully melted.

Pour the warm filling into your prepared pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula. If you’re adding a crumble topping or cinnamon sugar, now is the time to sprinkle it over the surface.

Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Don’t worry—this will firm up during cooling.

Let the pie cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then transfer it to the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight. Chilling allows the filling to fully set, making it easier to slice and giving the flavors time to meld beautifully.

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

This recipe requires only basic kitchen equipment, which you likely already have. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Pie plate
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Tips for the Creamiest Maple Sugar Cream Pie

To make the most of this pie, consider the following expert tips:

• Always use real maple syrup—preferably grade A amber—for the richest flavor
• Stir the filling constantly to prevent scorching or lumps
• Don’t skip the chill time. While it may be tempting to cut in early, the pie slices best when fully cooled

Delicious Variations and Toppings

If you’re interested in variations, you’ve got options.

For a maple cinnamon swirl, spoon in a mix of melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon before baking, then swirl with a knife.

Prefer crunch? Add a maple walnut or oat topping halfway through baking for a twist on bakes recipes like oatmeal crumble bars.

For a spiced version, infuse the cream with chai spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and clove.

Another variation includes replacing the pie crust with a graham cracker or shortbread base. This makes the dessert even more like a no-bake pie and adds a crunchy contrast to the smooth filling.

You can also layer thin slices of cooked apple on the bottom for a maple-apple cream pie hybrid.

How to Serve Maple Sugar Cream Pie

As for presentation, Maple Sugar Cream Pie looks stunning served on a rustic wooden platter or cake stand. Use a sharp knife and wipe between slices for clean edges. Garnish with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or chopped pecans for texture.

This dessert pairs beautifully with light beverages such as herbal tea, chai, or even a citrusy fruit salad. The mellow, sweet flavors also go well with vanilla-based desserts like these pudding cups.

Storing and Freezing Tips

Storing the pie is easy. Keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to four days.

If you want to make it ahead, bake the pie, let it cool, and refrigerate it a day before serving.

It also freezes well. Wrap the fully cooled pie tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to two months.

To thaw, transfer to the refrigerator overnight and serve cold or at room temperature.

Is Maple Sugar Cream Pie a Custard?

If you’re wondering whether this pie qualifies as a custard, the answer is yes—kind of. Although it’s egg-free, the creamy, thick filling behaves similarly to custard due to the cornstarch and cream.

This makes it a great entry-level pie for anyone intimidated by egg-based custards. It’s easier to master than complex custard desserts like baked flan but still offers that same dreamy texture.

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Maple Sugar Cream Pie FAQ

Can you make it ahead?
Yes. In fact, it’s better the next day.

Can you use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the texture won’t be as rich.

Can you swap maple syrup for honey?
Technically yes, but you’ll lose the distinct maple flavor.

Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes—use a gluten-free crust and confirm your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

Is this pie overly sweet?
Not at all. Thanks to maple syrup, the sweetness is well-balanced.

Can I add toppings?
Absolutely. Try crumble pie toppings or cinnamon swirls for extra flair.

Final Thoughts on Maple Sugar Cream Pie

Maple Sugar Cream Pie is one of those easy pie recipes that feels nostalgic and new all at once. It brings together the best of American dessert tradition and creative flavor upgrades. It’s sweet, simple, elegant, and flexible—ideal for beginners, home bakers, and dessert lovers of all kinds.

Whether you’re baking it for Thanksgiving, Sunday dinner, or a weeknight indulgence, this pie will never disappoint.

So if you’re looking to expand your dessert repertoire or explore more creative versions of cream pies like this banana cream pie, Maple Sugar Cream Pie should be next on your list.

It’s everything a creamy pie should be: simple to make, satisfying to eat, and impossible to forget.

Be sure to bookmark this recipe, share it with friends, and subscribe to the blog for more bakes recipes, custard-based treats, and seasonal pie ideas that everyone will love.

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