If you’ve ever longed to taste the sweet heart of Quebec right in your own kitchen, this Quebec Sugar Pie Recipe is your golden ticket. With its luscious caramel-like filling and tender, flaky crust, this dessert is like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s sweet without being overwhelming, rich but never heavy, and incredibly simple to make. Every bite captures the nostalgic comfort of a traditional Quebecois treat that’s been cherished for generations — and I can’t wait for you to make it your own favorite dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role to achieve that signature honeyed sweetness and creamy texture. Simple does not mean plain here — every component brings something special to the pie.
- Pie crust: Store-bought or homemade works beautifully as the buttery, flaky foundation of the pie.
- Light brown sugar: Offers that deep, molasses-infused sweetness essential to traditional Quebec sugar pie.
- Heavy cream: Adds luxurious richness, making the filling smooth and velvety.
- Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with warm, aromatic notes that marry perfectly with the sugar.
- Large eggs: Provide structure to the filling, helping it set while keeping everything tender and creamy.
How to Make Quebec Sugar Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Crust
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Nestle your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure it fits snugly along the bottom and sides. Whether you use a store-bought crust or your favorite homemade recipe, the crust forms the essential base that holds that luscious filling perfectly.
Step 2: Whisk Sugar and Cream
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of light brown sugar and 1 cup of heavy cream until your mixture is silky smooth. This step is where the magic begins — the creaminess starts to build, and you get a glimpse of the rich, caramel-like texture you’re about to create.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Eggs
Now add 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract to infuse warmth and depth of flavor. Crack in your 2 large eggs and whisk everything together until the filling is well combined and beautifully glossy. These eggs will help your pie filling to set just right in the oven.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
Carefully pour the luscious filling into your prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Pop the pie in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The filling should be set but retain a slight jiggle in the center — that’s the perfect indicator your pie has the ideal creamy texture inside while holding its shape.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Once out of the oven, allow your pie to cool completely on a rack. This step is essential since it lets the filling firm up enough for clean, beautiful slices. If you want to elevate your dessert, a dollop of whipped cream on top is an irresistible finish.
How to Serve Quebec Sugar Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A touch of freshly whipped cream sprinkled with a little cinnamon or nutmeg complements the warm sweetness of the pie perfectly. For an extra special touch, a few toasted pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup can add texture and deepen the richness.
Side Dishes
Serving a slice alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light fruit compote balances the richness with refreshing contrast. Fresh berries, like raspberries or blueberries, also bring a vibrant burst of natural tartness that really wakes up the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual mini Quebec sugar pies in ramekins for an elegant dinner party presentation. You could also transform it into a layered trifle by cubing the pie and layering it with whipped cream and fresh fruit for a stunning dessert display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After slicing, wrap any leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated and enjoy within 3 to 4 days to preserve its creamy texture and fresh flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the pie whole or in individual slices. Wrap well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It will keep beautifully for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Warm your slices gently in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F) for 10 minutes to bring back that lovely softness. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it might affect the texture of the filling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sugar?
While light brown sugar is traditional and gives the pie its distinctive caramel character, you can experiment with dark brown sugar for a richer depth or even unrefined cane sugar, though the flavor will shift a bit.
Is it okay to use a store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! Using a high-quality store-bought crust is a convenient way to save time and still get excellent results. Just make sure it’s properly thawed before baking.
How can I tell when the pie is done baking?
The filling should look set around the edges but still have a slight wiggle in the center when you gently shake the pie dish. This ensures a creamy, custard-like texture once cooled.
Can I make this pie vegan?
This traditional Quebec Sugar Pie Recipe relies on eggs and cream, but you could try substitutions such as coconut cream and flaxseed “eggs.” Keep in mind, texture and flavor will differ from the classic version.
What is the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftover pie is lovely served chilled or at room temperature, and a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of warm syrup can perk it up beautifully even the next day.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say the Quebec Sugar Pie Recipe is a treasure worth bringing into your baking repertoire. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps deliver such a comforting, sweet reward that feels both timeless and special. You’ll love sharing this golden slice of Quebec hospitality with family and friends — after all, what’s better than dessert that tastes like a warm memory?
Print
Quebec Sugar Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Canadian
Description
Quebec Sugar Pie is a classic French-Canadian dessert featuring a rich, creamy filling made from brown sugar, heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla, all baked in a flaky pie crust. This sweet treat offers a luscious, caramel-like flavor and a smooth texture, perfect for cozy gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Pie Base
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Filling
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pie crust into a pie dish, ensuring it fits well.
- Mix Sugar and Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Vanilla and Eggs: Stir in the pure vanilla extract, then add the two large eggs. Whisk thoroughly until the filling is smooth and uniform.
- Pour Filling: Carefully pour the prepared filling into the pie crust, making sure it is evenly distributed.
- Bake: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center when gently shaken.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely. Slice and serve, optionally topped with whipped cream for extra richness.
Notes
- Use light brown sugar for a more authentic caramel flavor; dark brown sugar can be used for a richer taste.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
- Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
- Pie crust can be homemade or store-bought depending on your preference for convenience.
