15+ Cream Pie Recipes

Cream pies are beloved desserts that combine rich, creamy fillings with a variety of delicious crusts. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving a gathering of friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home. The balance of smooth textures and sweet flavors makes cream pies a hit with all ages.

Wondering which cream pies are the best to try? This article brings together 15 amazing cream pie recipes that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic favorites to inventive twists, these recipes offer something for everyone. Get ready to explore a world of creamy delights that are both easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

1) Classic Boston Cream Pie

A classic Boston Cream Pie combines a light sponge cake with rich pastry cream and a smooth chocolate glaze.

Start by mixing cake flour and salt. Set aside and move on to heating milk and butter until the butter melts.

You’ll then whisk eggs and sugar until they are well combined and the mixture turns light.

Combine the hot milk mixture with the egg mixture, then add the dry ingredients.

Bake the batter in two 9-inch round cake pans until golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

For the filling, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt. Heat and then strain it to get a smooth texture.

Cut each cake layer in half and spread the pastry cream between the layers.

Top with a homemade chocolate glaze made by melting chocolate and heavy cream together.

Ensure the glaze is smooth and spread it over the top of the cake.

Let everything cool before serving. Your Classic Boston Cream Pie is now ready to enjoy!

2) Chocolate Cream Pie

Chocolate Cream Pie is a timeless dessert that you will love. It starts with a delicious crust. You can make it from Oreo cookie crumbs mixed with melted butter, then press it into a pie plate.

Next comes the creamy filling. In a saucepan, mix cocoa powder, cornstarch, and sugar. Stir in egg yolks and milk until smooth. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles.

Pour the filling into the cooled crust. Let it set in the fridge until firm. This usually takes a few hours.

Finish the pie with a light layer of whipped cream. Use electric mixers to whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread this over the chocolate filling.

For an extra touch, garnish with chocolate curls or shavings. You can make these by using a vegetable peeler on a bar of chocolate.

Enjoy a slice of this rich, creamy pie any time you crave a sweet treat.

3) Banana Cream Pie

Banana Cream Pie is a classic dessert that’s both creamy and delicious. It combines the smooth texture of rich custard with fresh banana slices.

The pie starts with a pre-baked crust. You can use either a traditional pastry crust or a graham cracker crust.

Next, layer fresh banana slices on the bottom of the crust. These slices add a sweet and fruity flavor to the pie.

Then, prepare the custard filling. This is typically made with milk, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla.

Pour the custard over the banana slices, filling the crust to the top. Smooth the surface with a spatula.

Chill the pie for several hours to set the custard. This will ensure the pie holds its shape when sliced.

To serve, you can top the pie with whipped cream. Some people also add extra banana slices or chocolate shavings on top for decoration.

Banana Cream Pie is best served cold, straight from the fridge. It’s a perfect treat for hot summer days or family gatherings.

4) Coconut Cream Pie

Coconut Cream Pie is a beloved dessert that brings tropical flavors to your table.

Start with a pre-baked pie crust. You can use a store-bought crust or make your own.

For the filling, mix coconut milk, half-and-half, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens.

Separate egg yolks and whisk them with cornstarch. Slowly add this to the hot mixture, stirring constantly.

Return the pot to the heat and cook for a few more minutes until everything is well combined.

Add vanilla extract and toasted coconut to the filling. Pour the creamy mixture into the pie shell.

Chill the pie in the refrigerator for about 4 hours until it firms up. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut.

Your Coconut Cream Pie will be a hit with anyone who loves creamy, coconut-packed desserts. It’s a perfect treat for special occasions or just because. With its creamy texture and sweet coconut flavor, it’s hard to resist.

5) Strawberry Cream Pie

Strawberry Cream Pie is a classic dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a creamy filling. It starts with a simple crust, which can be either baked or no-bake. For a baked crust, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and a bit of sugar. Press this mix into a pie dish and bake until golden.

The cream filling is made by blending cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth. Whipped cream is then folded in to give it a light and airy texture. This mixture is poured into the cooled crust.

Fresh strawberries are the star of this pie. You can chop the strawberries finely and mix them into the cream filling or arrange whole or halved berries on top for a beautiful presentation. Sometimes, a layer of berry puree or a light gelatin glaze is used to enhance flavor and keep the berries looking fresh.

For a no-bake option, prepare the cream filling and crust as described. Chill the pie in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. Either way, this pie is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

6) Lemon Cream Pie

Lemon Cream Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy flavor of lemons with a creamy texture.

To make it, start by preparing a lemon mixture with ingredients like lemon juice, lemon zest, and sweetened condensed milk. This gives the pie its distinct citrus taste.

Incorporate the lemon mixture into whipped cream, creating a light and airy filling. Ensure the whipped cream has stiff peaks before folding in the lemon mix to maintain its fluffiness.

Pour the combined filling into a pre-prepared crust. A graham cracker crust works wonderfully, adding a crunchy contrast. For a no-bake version, simply refrigerate the pie until it sets, usually about four hours.

For those who prefer a baked option, mix lemon juice, sour cream, and condensed milk, then pour into the crust. Bake briefly, cool, and refrigerate.

Adding a garnish of whipped cream or lemon slices can provide an aesthetic finishing touch. This pie is perfect for warm weather, offering a refreshing dessert option.

7) Peanut Butter Cream Pie

Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and requires no baking. You start by beating cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy. This gives your pie a rich, creamy base.

In another bowl, blend peanut butter and powdered sugar. This adds the sweet and nutty flavor that makes this pie so irresistible.

Fold in whipped cream to make the mixture lighter and airier. This helps to give the pie its signature fluffy texture. Spread this filling into a prepared graham cracker crust.

Chill the pie in the refrigerator for several hours to let it set. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency.

When you’re ready to serve, top the pie with chopped peanuts or a drizzle of chocolate for an extra touch. The contrasting textures make each bite a joy.

Peanut Butter Cream Pie is perfect for family gatherings or just a cozy night at home. The combination of flavors and textures will keep you coming back for more.

8) Pumpkin Cream Pie

Pumpkin Cream Pie offers a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin pie. This creamy dessert combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with a smooth, luscious filling.

Start by making the crust. You can use graham crackers or a traditional pastry crust. Mix graham crackers with powdered sugar and melted butter. Press this mixture into the pie pan.

For the filling, blend pumpkin puree with pudding mix and evaporated milk. Add pumpkin pie spice for that classic fall flavor. Whip the mixture until smooth.

Next, fold in whipped topping. This gives the pie its creamy texture. Pour the pumpkin filling into the crust and smooth the surface.

Freeze the pie for at least 4 hours. This helps it set firmly. Before serving, let it stand in the refrigerator for about an hour.

To finish, you can top the pie with more whipped cream. This makes it look and taste even better. Enjoy your Pumpkin Cream Pie with friends and family!

9) Key Lime Cream Pie

Key Lime Cream Pie is a refreshing dessert that combines the tangy taste of lime with a creamy texture. You’ll need a graham cracker crust as the base.

Mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and a little sugar. Press this mixture firmly into a pie pan and bake until slightly browned.

For the filling, beat cream cheese with sweetened condensed milk and lime juice until smooth. Fold in some whipped cream to add extra fluffiness. Spoon this mixture into the cooled crust.

Top the pie with more whipped cream for an extra creamy bite. Sprinkle toasted coconut on top for a bit of crunch and extra flavor. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours before serving.

To add a touch of elegance, garnish each slice with a thin slice of Key lime. This bright dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or any time you crave something sweet and tangy.

10) Raspberry Cream Pie

Raspberry Cream Pie is a delightful treat that combines a flaky crust with a refreshing raspberry filling.

To start, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate. Prick the bottom and sides with a fork, then line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Fill with pie weights or dried beans.

Bake the crust until golden brown, about 15 minutes. Let it cool completely.

For the raspberry filling, cook raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water in a medium saucepan. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Let the mixture cool in the refrigerator for an hour.

In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Reserve some whipped cream for topping.

Fold the remaining whipped cream into the cooled raspberry mixture. Pour this filling into the baked pie crust and spread evenly.

Place the pie in the freezer for about two hours until very firm. Before serving, let it thaw slightly. Garnish each slice with extra whipped cream and fresh raspberries for a perfect finish.

Raspberry Cream Pie is a simple, no-bake recipe that makes a great dessert for any occasion.

11) Pineapple Cream Pie

Pineapple Cream Pie is a delightful dessert that brings a tropical twist to your table. Its sweet and tangy flavor makes it a favorite among many.

Start by making the crust. You can use a store-bought crust or make your own graham cracker crust. Crush graham crackers, mix with melted butter and sugar, and press into a pie dish. Bake until lightly browned.

For the filling, mix sugar, flour, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Add milk and cook until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat and stir in crushed pineapple, egg yolks, and butter. Return to the heat and cook until it begins to bubble again.

Once your filling is ready, pour it into the cooled crust. Let it set in the refrigerator for a few hours or until firm.

Top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture. Your Pineapple Cream Pie is now ready to serve. Enjoy this refreshing slice of paradise!

12) Mango Cream Pie

Mango Cream Pie is a delicious summer dessert that’s sure to brighten any table. Start by preparing a graham cracker crust. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into a pie plate and bake it at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes. Let it cool completely.

For the filling, blend ripe mangoes into a smooth puree. Mix the puree with whipped cream, sugar, and a dash of vanilla extract. Some recipes suggest adding mango extract for extra flavor, but this is optional.

Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the mango puree. Pour this mixture into the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Chill the pie in the refrigerator for several hours or until it sets firmly. Before serving, you can garnish with fresh mango slices or a dollop of whipped cream.

This Mango Cream Pie offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and sweet, tangy mango flavor. It’s a refreshing treat that’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests.

13) Blueberry Cream Pie

Blueberry Cream Pie is a delightful dessert that marries the tartness of blueberries with the creamy texture of cheese. Start by making a graham cracker crust. Combine the crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch pie pan. Bake it until lightly toasted and set it aside to cool.

For the filling, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in some blueberry pie filling and a portion of whipped topping. Spread this mixture over the prepared crust.

Add another layer of whipped topping over the pie. Refrigerate it for at least 5 hours to let the flavors meld together. This cool and creamy pie is perfect for warm days and will be a hit at any gathering.

14) Butterscotch Cream Pie

Butterscotch Cream Pie is a rich and creamy dessert that offers a delightful mix of sweet and buttery flavors. The filling is made with ingredients like brown sugar, butter, and egg yolks.

Start by baking the pie crust until it’s light brown and crisp. Then, prepare your butterscotch mixture by combining brown sugar, flour, and cornstarch. Add a bit of milk to form a paste.

Next, mix beaten egg yolks with the paste and add the remaining milk. Cook this mixture slowly, stirring constantly until it thickens. Remove it from the heat and stir in butter and vanilla.

Temper the egg yolk mixture by slowly adding some of the hot butterscotch. This step ensures the eggs don’t scramble. After tempering, combine everything back into the pot and continue cooking until the mixture thickens.

Once thickened, pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Let it cool completely so it sets properly. You can decorate with whipped cream or reserved butterscotch for an extra touch.

Butterscotch Cream Pie not only tastes delicious but also offers a nostalgic and homey feel that makes it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

15) Nutella Cream Pie

Nutella Cream Pie is a quick and tasty dessert that doesn’t require baking. You can make it using simple ingredients like Nutella, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and whipped topping. Start by pressing a cookie or graham cracker crust into a pie plate.

In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar. Add a cup of Nutella and blend until smooth. Gently fold in whipped topping until fully combined. Pour the Nutella mixture into the prepared crust and smooth it out.

Refrigerate the pie for at least four hours or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to meld and the pie to firm up. When you’re ready to serve, you can add extra toppings like whipped cream or chocolate shavings.

This Nutella Cream Pie is perfect for family gatherings or as a quick treat. It takes just a few minutes to prepare, but it’s full of rich, creamy flavor that everyone will love. Enjoy the sweet and nutty taste with every bite!

History of Cream Pies

Cream pies have a rich history that spans across different regions and communities. You’ll learn about where these pies originated and how they’ve varied from place to place.

Origins and Evolution

Cream pies date back to at least the 1800s. One of the earliest known recipes is the Sugar Cream Pie, which appeared in Indiana. The Shaker and Amish communities were known for this creation, making it popular during times when fruits were scarce.

Boston Cream Pie is another famous example. Despite its name, it’s actually a cake and was created in Boston in the mid-19th century. This pie features layers of cake with cream filling and a chocolate glaze.

Over time, cream pies have evolved. Ingredients and techniques may have changed, but the essence of a rich, creamy filling has remained the same. Each community has added its own twist, showing the versatility of this beloved dessert.

Regional Variations

Different regions have unique takes on cream pies. In Indiana, the Sugar Cream Pie is a staple, especially in Amish and Shaker communities. It’s usually made with simple ingredients like cream, sugar, and butter, creating a custard-like filling.

In Boston, the Boston Cream Pie is a must-try. This pie uses a sponge cake base, filled with rich pastry cream and topped with chocolate. It’s more cake than pie, but its name has stuck.

New England has its own version with the famous Boston Cream Pie. Other regions may focus on using local ingredients. For example, some southern recipes might include peaches or bananas, adding a unique local flavor.

Each region’s variation reflects local tastes and ingredients, making cream pies a versatile and beloved dessert across the United States.

Key Ingredients of Cream Pies

Cream pies are famous for their smooth fillings and rich flavors. They often have a creamy base made from dairy products, along with a crust that can vary in materials and methods.

Dairy and Alternatives

The main ingredient in most cream pies is dairy. Common choices include heavy cream, milk, cream cheese, and sweetened condensed milk. These ingredients make the pie filling rich and smooth.

Heavy cream is often whipped to create a light and fluffy texture. Cream cheese adds a tangy taste and makes the filling more stable.

If you prefer non-dairy options, you can use coconut milk or almond milk. These provide a creamy texture without using animal products.

Crust Options

The crust of a cream pie can be just as important as the filling. Popular choices include graham cracker, Oreo, and shortbread crusts.

Graham cracker crusts are easy to make by mixing crushed graham crackers with melted butter. Oreo crusts use crushed Oreo cookies and butter for a chocolatey base. Shortbread crusts are buttery and slightly sweet, providing a sturdy base for the filling.

You can also use traditional pie crusts, which are made from flour, fat, and water, for a classic taste.

Tips for Perfect Cream Pies

Creating the perfect cream pie involves proper mixing, baking techniques, and avoiding common pitfalls that can ruin your dessert.

Mixing and Baking Techniques

When mixing ingredients for a cream pie, ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth and even mixture. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend the ingredients thoroughly.

For the crust, pressing the crumbs firmly into the pie dish ensures a solid base. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup for even pressure. Blind baking the crust helps prevent sogginess. To blind bake, line the crust with parchment paper and fill with weights. Bake until golden.

Cook your filling on medium heat while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cool it completely before adding whipped cream or toppings.