Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Heavenly Cream Sugar Pie?
The Heavenly Cream Sugar Pie is a rich, creamy, and velvety dessert that originated as a legacy creation from Gerschuh's Restaurant in Greenville.
What are the primary flavors of this pie?
The pie features a sweet sugar and cream base with aromatic hints of vanilla and ground cinnamon.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes enough for 6 servings.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking.
How long does it take to bake the pie?
The pie typically bakes for 60 to 75 minutes.
How do I know when the pie is finished baking?
The filling should be set but still jiggle slightly; it should not be liquid when the pie is moved.
What kind of pie shell is required?
The recipe calls for one 9-inch unbaked pie shell.
Do I need whole eggs for this recipe?
No, you only need 2 egg yolks, which should be separated from the whites.
What type of flour is used in the filling?
Use 5 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
Is heavy whipping cream necessary?
Yes, 2 cups of heavy whipping cream are used to give the pie its luxurious and rich texture.
How should the butter be prepared for the topping?
The 2 tablespoons of butter should be kept cold and then chopped before being distributed on top of the filling.
Can I eat the pie immediately after baking?
It is best to allow the pie to cool before serving to ensure the filling sets properly.
What is the secret to a smooth filling?
Whisk the sugar and flour until fully blended before adding liquids, and avoid overbeating the mixture once the eggs and vanilla are added.
How much vanilla extract is included?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Is there half-and-half in this pie?
Yes, the recipe uses 1 cup of half-and-half blended with the egg yolks.
What type of sugar is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifies 1 cup of granulated sugar.
Should the cinnamon be mixed into the batter?
No, the 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon should be sprinkled over the top of the filling after it is poured into the shell.
Is salt used in this sweet dessert?
Yes, a dash of salt is whisked into the sugar and flour mixture to enhance the flavors.
What is the first step of preparation?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
What restaurant is this recipe associated with?
This is a legacy recipe from Gerschuh's Restaurant in Greenville.
Is this pie considered a traditional dessert?
Yes, it is tagged as a traditional, nostalgic, and comfort food dessert.
When should I start checking the pie for doneness?
Start checking the pie at the one-hour (60-minute) mark.
What is the texture of the finished pie?
The pie has a creamy and rich filling with a velvety consistency.
How are the egg yolks incorporated?
The egg yolks are blended with half-and-half and then gently folded into the sugar and cream mixture.
Can this pie be served at holiday gatherings?
Yes, it is described as being ideal for family gatherings and holiday feasts.
Does the recipe require a top crust?
No, this is an open-faced cream pie topped with butter and cinnamon rather than a second crust.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 total ingredients in this recipe.
What category of food does this fall into?
This is categorized as a Pie within the dessert category.
How do you mix the whipping cream into the base?
The whipping cream should be stirred gradually into the sugar and flour mixture until well combined.
What makes this pie 'nostalgic'?
Its association with a historic restaurant and its traditional cream-based preparation give it a nostalgic quality.