Indulge in a Vegan Old-Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie
If you’re looking for a vegan dessert that evokes nostalgia and old-fashioned charm, then you’ll love this vegan version of the classic Sugar Cream Pie. This is a dairy-free delight that maintains the rich, creamy goodness of the traditional pie without compromising on taste.
What Makes this Vegan Sugar Cream Pie So Special?
Sugar Cream Pie is a beloved dessert known for its simple yet delightful combination of sweet, creamy filling and flaky crust. Traditionally, it’s made with milk, sugar, butter, and a few other basic ingredients. This vegan version swaps out the dairy components without sacrificing the luscious texture and comforting flavor that make this pie a favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you dive into the process, gather the following ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup vegan margarine, chilled and cubed
- 4-6 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup vegan margarine, melted
- Ground nutmeg for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making the Crust
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** Start by whisking together the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl.
2. **Incorporate the Margarine:** Add the cubed vegan margarine to the mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. **Add Ice Water:** Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
4. **Chill the Dough:** Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. **Roll Out the Dough:** Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
6. **Pre-Bake the Crust:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the dough to the pie dish, trim the edges, and bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
Preparing the Filling
**1. Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, flour, and salt.
**2. Add Almond Milk:** Gradually add the almond milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
**3. Cook the Mixture:** Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to boil. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
**4. Remove from Heat:** Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and melted vegan margarine until smooth.
**5. Fill the Pie Crust:** Pour the mixture into the pre-baked pie crust.
Final Touches and Baking
1. **Sprinkle with Nutmeg:** Lightly sprinkle ground nutmeg over the top of the filling.
2. **Bake:** Return the pie to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is slightly bubbly.
3. **Cool:** Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set properly.
Tips for a Perfect Vegan Sugar Cream Pie
– **Chill the Dough:** Ensure the dough is well-chilled to make it more manageable and to achieve a flaky crust.
– **Constant Stirring:** When preparing the filling, stir constantly to prevent any lumps and to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
– **Proper Cooling:** Let the pie cool completely. Patience is key to getting the perfect set filling.
Serving Suggestions
This Vegan Old-Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie is perfect on its own, but for a truly indulgent experience, consider serving it with:
Whipped Topping:
Fruit Garnish:
Warm Beverages:
Why This Pie is Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, this Vegan Old-Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie is a crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity means it can be whipped up without too much fuss, and its flavors are universally appealing. Plus, it’s a great way to show that vegan desserts can be just as satisfying and delicious as their traditional counterparts.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a comforting and decadent dessert, give this Vegan Old-Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie a try. Your taste buds—and your loved ones—will thank you.
