Famous No-Fail Sugar Pie

Famous No-Fail Sugar Pie

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

• 2 cups packed brown sugar (dark brown sugar is preferred for a deeper caramel flavor)

• ½ cup all-purpose flour (to help it set without eggs)

• 1 ½ cups evaporated milk or heavy cream

• 4 tbsp butter (real butter, no substitutions)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Mix Dry: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, flour, and salt until very well combined and lump-free.

3. Combine & Cook: Stir in the milk (or cream), butter, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a boil.

4. Fill: Pour the thickened, hot mixture into your unbaked pie shell.

5. Bake: * Bake at 400°F for the first 5 minutes.

   • Reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 25 minutes.

6. The Secret Set: The pie may look slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it, but do not overbake. It will firm up into a silky custard as it cools at room temperature.

Why It’s “No-Fail”:

• Minimal Effort: Unlike many custard pies, the filling is cooked briefly on the stove first, ensuring it thickens perfectly every time.

• Historical Roots: It’s known as a “desperation pie” because it uses simple ingredients farm families always had on hand.