Sugar Pie

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pie Crust

1. Prepare the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. You may not need all the water.
3. Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully place it into a 9-inch pie pan, trimming the excess dough from the edges.
5. Pre-Bake the Crust (optional): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust in the oven for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix the Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined.
2. Add Cream and Eggs: Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, followed by the eggs, vanilla extract, and maple extract (if using). Mix until the filling is smooth and well blended.
3. Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the sugar filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Pie

1. Bake: Place the pie in the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed. The center may still be a bit jiggly; it will firm up as it cools.
2. Cool: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing. This cooling period allows the filling to firm up.

Methodology

The process of making sugar pie is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The balance of sugars and cream creates a rich, velvety texture that is both satisfying and comforting. The choice of ingredients plays a crucial role: the type of sugar used affects the flavor and color of the filling. Using high-quality butter for the crust ensures a flaky and flavorful base, while the addition of maple extract enhances the traditional flavor profile

Creating a delicious sugar pie involves a series of steps that include preparing the crust, making the filling, and baking the pie. Below are detailed methods to ensure you achieve the perfect sugar pie:

1. Preparing the Pie Crust

Ingredients:

• • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

Method:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar until well blended.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to overwork the dough; some small pieces of butter should remain visible.
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time. Mix gently with a fork until the dough begins to come together. You may not need all the water, so add just enough until the dough holds together without being sticky.
4. Form the Dough: Gather the dough into a ball and flatten it into a disk. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up.
5. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it gently into place. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
6. Pre-Bake the Crust (optional): For a firmer crust, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust in the oven for about 10 minutes until it is lightly golden. Allow it to cool slightly before filling.

2. Preparing the Filling

Ingredients:

• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon maple extract (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Method:

1. Mix the Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt until fully combined.
2. Incorporate Cream: Slowly add the heavy cream to the sugar mixture, whisking continuously until smooth.
3. Add Eggs and Extracts: Crack the eggs into the mixture and whisk until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and maple extract (if using), blending until the filling is smooth and well combined.
4. Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the sugar filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

3. Baking the Pie

Method:

1. Bake: Place the filled pie in the oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly puffed. The center may still appear slightly jiggly; it will firm up as it cools.
2. Cool: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours. This cooling time is crucial, as it allows the filling to set properly.
3. Serve: Sugar pie can be enjoyed warm or chilled. Serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Tips for Success

• Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and water are very cold for a flakier crust.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing and rolling out the dough, handle it gently to prevent toughness.
• Let the Filling Cool: If the filling is too hot when you pour it into the crust, it can make the crust soggy, so allow it to cool slightly before pouring.
• Check for Doneness: The pie is done when the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. It will continue to cook slightly as it cools.

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