Cream pies are a beloved dessert that can satisfy any sweet tooth. These cool and creamy treats come in many flavors, from classic chocolate to tangy key lime. With their silky fillings and buttery crusts, cream pies are perfect for any occasion.
You can easily make delicious cream pies at home with simple ingredients and techniques. Many recipes don’t even require baking, making them great options for hot summer days. Whether you prefer fruity, nutty, or chocolatey flavors, there’s a cream pie recipe out there for you to try. Get ready to discover some tasty new desserts to share with family and friends.
1. Classic Banana Cream Pie
Banana cream pie is a beloved dessert that brings smiles to many faces. You’ll love the combination of creamy custard, fresh bananas, and flaky crust.
To make this pie, start with a pre-baked pie crust. Fill it with layers of sliced bananas and homemade vanilla pudding. Chill the pie to let the flavors meld together.
Before serving, top your pie with fluffy whipped cream. For extra flair, add banana slices or crushed vanilla wafers on top.
This classic treat is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. You can even make it ahead of time, as it needs to set before serving.
2. Chocolate Cream Pie
Chocolate cream pie is a classic dessert that’s easy to make at home. You’ll need a pie crust, chocolate pudding filling, and whipped cream topping.
Start by preparing your crust. You can use a store-bought crust or make one from Oreo cookie crumbs and melted butter.
For the filling, mix milk, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. In another bowl, whisk cornstarch, egg yolks, and sugar. Combine the two mixtures and cook until thick.
Add chocolate, butter, and vanilla to the filling. Pour it into the crust and let it cool. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings before serving. Your homemade chocolate cream pie will be a hit!
3. Coconut Cream Pie
Coconut cream pie is a tropical treat that’s sure to delight your taste buds. You’ll love the creamy coconut filling nestled in a flaky pie crust.
To make the filling, mix coconut milk, half-and-half, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. Heat this mixture gently. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with cornstarch.
Combine the two mixtures and cook until thick. Fold in shredded coconut for extra texture. Pour the filling into a pre-baked pie crust and chill.
Top your pie with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes for a picture-perfect finish. This dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a slice of paradise.
4. Lemon Meringue Cream Pie
Lemon meringue cream pie is a classic dessert that combines tangy lemon filling with a fluffy meringue topping. The creamy lemon custard sits in a flaky pie crust, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
To make this pie, you’ll need a pre-baked pie crust, lemon juice, sugar, eggs, and a few other simple ingredients. The lemon filling is cooked on the stove until thick and creamy.
For the meringue, you’ll whip egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread this over the lemon filling and bake until the meringue is golden brown. Let the pie cool before serving for the best flavor and texture.
5. Peanut Butter Cream Pie
Peanut butter cream pie is a delicious no-bake dessert you can easily make at home. The filling combines cream cheese, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and whipped cream for a smooth texture.
You’ll start by mixing the cream cheese until smooth, then add peanut butter and a bit of heavy cream. In a separate bowl, whip the cream and gradually add sugar.
Fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture. Pour this filling into a prepared pie crust and chill until set.
For extra flavor, sprinkle chopped peanuts on top before serving. You can also add toppings like chocolate drizzle or caramel sauce if desired.
6. Key Lime Cream Pie
Key lime cream pie is a refreshing twist on the classic dessert. You’ll love its tangy-sweet flavor and creamy texture.
To make it, mix cream cheese, condensed milk, and lime juice until smooth. Fold in whipped cream for extra richness. Pour this filling into a prepared pie crust.
Chill the pie for at least 2 hours before serving. Top with more whipped cream and sprinkle with toasted coconut for added flair.
For the best taste, use fresh Key lime juice. If you can’t find Key limes, regular limes work too. The pie’s bright, zesty flavor makes it perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a tropical treat.
7. Vanilla Cream Pie
Vanilla cream pie is a classic dessert that’s sure to please. You’ll start by making a flaky pie crust and blind baking it until golden brown.
For the filling, you’ll cook milk, cream, sugar, and cornstarch on the stovetop. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens. Add vanilla extract for flavor.
Pour the warm filling into your cooled crust. Chill the pie for several hours until set. Top with whipped cream before serving if desired.
This creamy, sweet pie has a smooth texture and rich vanilla taste. It’s perfect for special occasions or anytime you want a comforting treat.
8. Oreo Cream Pie
Oreo cream pie is a dream dessert for cookie lovers. You can make it without turning on your oven. The crust is made from crushed Oreo cookies.
For the filling, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and whipped cream. Fold in crushed Oreos for extra flavor and texture.
Spread the creamy mixture into the crust. Top with more crushed Oreos or whole cookies for decoration. Chill the pie in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
This pie is rich, creamy, and packed with Oreo goodness. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert.
9. Strawberry Cream Pie
Strawberry cream pie is a delightful dessert perfect for warm weather gatherings. You can make it easily with just a few ingredients.
Start with a graham cracker crust as the base. Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and whipped cream for a fluffy filling. Add fresh strawberries on top for color and flavor.
This no-bake treat is quick to prepare. You can have it ready to chill in about 15 minutes. The cool, creamy texture pairs perfectly with the sweet berries.
Serve this pie at picnics, potlucks, or backyard barbecues. Your guests will love the light, refreshing taste. It’s an ideal dessert for spring and summer parties.
10. Butterscotch Cream Pie
Butterscotch cream pie is a classic dessert that brings comfort to any table. You’ll love its rich, creamy texture and sweet caramel-like flavor.
The pie starts with a flaky crust filled with homemade butterscotch pudding. To make the filling, you’ll cook brown sugar, butter, and milk until thick and smooth.
Whole milk gives the pie its creamy texture, while egg yolks add richness. Some recipes top the pie with fluffy meringue or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
For best results, serve your butterscotch cream pie warm. The melty filling and crisp crust create a delightful contrast your taste buds will appreciate.
11. French Silk Pie
French Silk Pie is a velvety smooth chocolate dessert that melts in your mouth. You’ll love its rich, creamy texture and intense chocolate flavor.
To make this pie, you’ll start with a pre-baked pie crust. The filling is a blend of melted chocolate, sugar, eggs, and butter whipped until light and fluffy.
Fold in some whipped cream to make the filling even more luscious. Pour the mixture into the crust and chill until set.
Top your French Silk Pie with a layer of freshly whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an extra special touch. This indulgent treat is perfect for chocolate lovers and special occasions.
12. Blueberry Cream Pie
Blueberry cream pie is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet-tart flavor of blueberries with creamy filling. To make it, you’ll need a pie crust, cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and fresh blueberries.
Start by preparing the crust and chilling it in the freezer. Mix cream cheese, sour cream, and sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped cream for extra lightness.
Spread half the cream mixture in the crust, then add a layer of blueberries. Top with the remaining cream and more blueberries. Chill the pie for at least 5 hours before serving.
For added flavor, try adding lemon zest or vanilla extract to the filling. You can also make a blueberry sauce by cooking some berries with sugar and cornstarch to pour over the pie.
13. Pumpkin Cream Pie
Pumpkin cream pie is a delightful twist on the classic dessert. You’ll love its smooth, creamy texture and rich pumpkin flavor.
To make this pie, blend pumpkin puree with pudding mix, evaporated milk, and pumpkin pie spice. Fold in whipped topping for extra creaminess.
Pour the mixture into a graham cracker crust. You can make your own by combining crushed graham crackers with butter and sugar.
Chill the pie for at least 3-4 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly.
Top your pumpkin cream pie with extra whipped cream for a perfect finishing touch.
14. Pineapple Cream Pie
Pineapple cream pie is a tropical treat that combines tangy pineapple with smooth, creamy filling. You’ll love the contrast between the sweet fruit and rich custard.
To make this pie, start with a pre-baked graham cracker crust. Mix sugar, flour, and milk in a saucepan until thickened. Then add pineapple, egg yolks, and butter.
Pour the filling into the cooled crust and chill until set. Top with whipped cream and coconut flakes for extra flavor. This refreshing dessert is perfect for summer gatherings.
You can use canned pineapple for convenience or fresh pineapple for a brighter taste. Either way, this pie will transport you to a sunny beach with each bite.
15. Cherry Cream Pie
Cherry cream pie is a delightful dessert that combines sweet cherries with creamy filling. You’ll love the contrast between the tart fruit and smooth custard.
To make this pie, start with a graham cracker crust. Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla for the filling. Spread it in the crust and chill.
Top the pie with cherry pie filling just before serving. For extra flavor, add a dash of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture.
This no-bake treat is perfect for summer gatherings. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Try it at your next party or potluck.
Cream Pie Basics
Cream pies are beloved desserts known for their smooth, rich fillings and flaky crusts. Let’s explore the key elements that make these pies so delicious.
What Is a Cream Pie?
A cream pie features a baked pie crust filled with a creamy, pudding-like mixture. The filling is typically made from milk, sugar, and a thickener like cornstarch or flour. It’s cooked on the stovetop until thick, then poured into the crust to set.
Common flavors include chocolate, vanilla, and coconut. Some cream pies are topped with whipped cream or meringue for extra indulgence.
You can serve cream pies chilled or at room temperature. Their smooth texture and sweet taste make them a hit at gatherings and special occasions.
Common Ingredients in Cream Pies
The base of most cream pie fillings includes:
- Milk or cream
- Sugar
- Eggs or egg yolks
- Cornstarch or flour
- Salt
- Flavoring (vanilla extract, cocoa powder, etc.)
For the crust, you’ll often use:
- All-purpose flour
- Butter
- Salt
- Ice water
Some recipes call for a graham cracker crust instead. This uses crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar.
Toppings vary but may include whipped cream, meringue, or chocolate shavings.
Cream Pie vs Custard Pie
While similar, cream pies and custard pies have key differences:
Cream Pies:
- Filling cooked on stovetop
- Smoother, pudding-like texture
- Often topped with whipped cream
- Usually served chilled
Custard Pies:
- Filling baked in the oven
- Denser, eggier texture
- No additional topping needed
- Can be served warm or at room temperature
Cream pies use more starch to thicken, while custard pies rely more on eggs. This affects their final texture and how they’re prepared.
Both types of pies are delicious in their own right. Your choice might depend on the flavor you’re craving or the texture you prefer.
Expert Tips for Making Cream Pies
Making a perfect cream pie takes skill and attention to detail. These tips will help you create delicious cream pies every time.
Choosing the Right Crust
Pick a crust that complements your filling. Graham cracker crusts work well for many cream pies. For a classic look, use a flaky pastry crust.
Pre-bake your crust to prevent sogginess. Let it cool before adding filling.
For no-bake pies, chill the crust in the fridge for 30 minutes before filling. This helps it hold its shape.
Try adding flavor to your crust. Mix in some cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra taste.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
Use cornstarch or flour to thicken your filling. Cornstarch gives a silky texture, while flour creates a denser custard.
Cook your filling over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent lumps and scorching.
Strain your filling through a fine-mesh sieve for ultra-smooth results.
Chill your pie thoroughly before serving. This lets the filling set properly.
For light and fluffy pies, fold whipped cream into your cooled filling.
Decorating Your Cream Pie
Add visual appeal with toppings. Fresh fruit, chocolate shavings, or nuts work well.
Use a piping bag to create pretty whipped cream designs on top.
Try a dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon for simple elegance.
Make chocolate curls by scraping a vegetable peeler along a chocolate bar.
For a professional look, use a hot knife to cut clean slices. Dip the knife in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts.