Are you a beginner looking to impress your family and friends with delicious desserts? Look no further! Cream pies are a classic favorite that never goes out of style, and we’ve got 20 mouthwatering recipes for you to try. From classic vanilla to decadent chocolate, and from fruity twists to nutty treats, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of easy cream pies, with a focus on beginner-friendly recipes that require minimal fuss but maximum flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a sweet treat after dinner, these creamy confections are sure to satisfy your cravings.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive in and discover your new favorite recipe!
Classic Vanilla Cream Pie
A timeless dessert that’s sure to please, this classic vanilla cream pie is a crowd-pleaser. A flaky crust, creamy filling, and a touch of sweetness make it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the crust: Combine flour, salt, and cold butter in a bowl. Gradually add ice-cold water until dough forms.
3. Roll out crust and place in a pie dish. Trim edges and crimp.
4. Bake crust for 15 minutes.
5. Make the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and heavy cream. Add vanilla extract.
6. Pour filling into baked crust and smooth top.
7. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
No-Bake Chocolate Cream Pie
A classic dessert gets a no-bake twist! This rich and creamy pie is perfect for hot summer days when you want to avoid heating up your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Temper the egg yolk mixture by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into it, whisking constantly.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish or a large glass bowl. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Just before serving, melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Spread the melted chocolate over the chilled cream mixture. Refrigerate for an additional 15 minutes to set.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake!)
Banana Cream Pie with Graham Cracker Crust
This beloved dessert combines sweet ripe bananas, creamy custard, and a crunchy graham cracker crust to create a show-stopping treat. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine egg yolks and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Arrange banana slices in the baked pie crust. Pour custard mixture over bananas.
7. Top with whipped cream and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Coconut Cream Pie with Toasted Coconut Topping
This classic dessert gets a tropical twist with the addition of toasted coconut flakes and a creamy coconut filling. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a sweet and refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping:
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare crust according to package instructions.
3. In a separate bowl, combine coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, and egg yolks. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour filling into prepared crust and bake for 40-45 minutes or until set.
5. Toast coconut flakes in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently.
6. Top pie with toasted coconut flakes and melted butter. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lemon Cream Pie with Whipped Cream
Brighten up any occasion with this refreshing lemon cream pie, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of sweetness. This classic dessert is easy to make and sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and lemon juice.
5. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into lemon mixture.
6. Pour filling into baked crust. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
7. Top with whipped cream and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Strawberry Cream Pie with Fresh Berries
A classic dessert gets a fresh twist with this strawberry cream pie recipe featuring a layer of sweet and tangy whipped cream topped with an abundance of juicy, ripe strawberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add sugar and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the whipped cream, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle cornstarch over the strawberries to prevent them from sinking into the filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peanut Butter Cream Pie with Chocolate Drizzle
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this decadent peanut butter cream pie, topped with a velvety chocolate drizzle. This indulgent dessert is perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the chocolate drizzle:
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
3. Press crust into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour filling mixture into baked crust and smooth top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Melt chocolate chips with butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
9. Drizzle melted chocolate over pie.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (crust baking), 2+ hours (pie setting)
Pumpkin Cream Pie with Spiced Whipped Cream
Pumpkin Cream Pie with Spiced Whipped Cream: A creamy and aromatic dessert perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
For the pie:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 3 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
For the whipped cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cream, pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs until well combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and fill with the pumpkin mixture.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes or until set.
6. For whipped cream, beat heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form. Add cinnamon and nutmeg; whip until combined.
7. Serve warm pie with spiced whipped cream.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Oreo Cream Pie with Crushed Cookie Crust
A classic dessert gets a creative twist with this Oreo cream pie featuring a crushed cookie crust. The perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups Oreo cookies, crushed
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crushed Oreos and sugar.
3. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
6. Add vanilla extract, salt, and sweetened condensed milk; mix until combined.
7. Pour the whipped cream mixture over the baked cookie crust.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 3-4 hours (including chilling)
Butterscotch Cream Pie with Caramel Sauce
Rich and creamy butterscotch filling, nestled in a flaky pastry crust and drizzled with a sweet caramel sauce – this classic dessert is sure to please.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice water
For the Filling:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup butterscotch syrup (or to taste)
For the Caramel Sauce:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare crust and bake according to package instructions or make from scratch using flour, butter, and ice water.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together filling ingredients until smooth.
4. Pour filling into baked crust and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until set.
5. Meanwhile, combine caramel sauce ingredients in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves and mixture turns golden brown.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over cooled pie.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Key Lime Cream Pie with Meringue Topping
This tangy and sweet pie is a classic Florida Keys dessert, featuring a creamy key lime filling topped with a fluffy meringue topping.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup key lime juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the meringue topping:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Whisk together egg yolks, key lime juice, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Pour into the crust.
4. Bake for 15 minutes. Let cool completely.
5. Preheat oven to 200°F. Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Spread meringue topping over the cooled pie filling. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Raspberry Cream Pie with Shortbread Crust
A classic dessert that combines sweet and tart flavors, this raspberry cream pie is a showstopper for any gathering. With its buttery shortbread crust and creamy filling, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 cups fresh raspberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Whipped cream and additional raspberries for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Press dough into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Bake crust for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and egg yolks until stiff peaks form.
6. Fold in granulated sugar and fresh raspberries.
7. Pour filling into baked crust and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (crust) + 2 hours (filling)
Blueberry Cream Pie with Lemon Zest
This classic cream pie gets a boost of brightness from the addition of lemon zest and a sweet-tart blueberry filling. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For the filling:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon (about 1 teaspoon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together filling ingredients until smooth.
4. Pour filling into the prepared crust and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
5. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Peach Cream Pie with Cinnamon Sugar
This classic pie combines the warmth of cinnamon sugar crust with a creamy peach filling, perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
For the Filling:
– 3 cups fresh peaches, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix crust ingredients until a crumbly dough forms. Press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Bake crust for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together filling ingredients except peaches.
5. Arrange sliced peaches in the baked pie crust.
6. Pour cream mixture over peaches and smooth out.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 30-35 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-55 minutes
Mocha Cream Pie with Espresso Whipped Cream
Experience the perfect blend of coffee and chocolate with this decadent pie that combines a velvety mocha cream filling with a crunchy cookie crust, topped with a dollop of espresso-infused whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons instant coffee powder
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whipped cream
– 2 teaspoons espresso powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
2. Combine sugar, melted butter, and whisk until smooth.
3. Add egg yolks and vanilla extract; whisk until well combined.
4. Melt chocolate in microwave or double boiler; stir into mixture.
5. Pour filling into pre-baked pie crust (see note).
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Allow to cool completely before topping with whipped cream and espresso powder.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Cherry Cream Pie with Almond Crust
This classic cherry cream pie gets a delightful twist with an almond crust, adding a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the traditional recipe. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 cup almonds
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the crust: In a food processor, blend almonds, confectioners’ sugar, and salt until coarsely ground. Add melted butter and process until mixture forms a ball.
3. Roll out crust on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with cherries, cream, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract.
4. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is set. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Mint Chocolate Cream Pie with Chocolate Shavings
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing twist on the classic chocolate cream pie. The combination of cool mint and rich chocolate will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup peppermint extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 store-bought or homemade chocolate cookie crust
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
– Chocolate shavings for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract. Let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk and cooled chocolate mixture until smooth.
4. Pour filling into the prepared crust and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves and top with chocolate shavings (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparation only), 2+ hours (chilling time)
Apple Cream Pie with Streusel Topping
This classic pie combines the warmth of apples with the richness of cream and a crunchy streusel topping, perfect for cozying up on a crisp fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 3-4 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– Streusel Topping (see below)
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Arrange apple slices on top of crust.
6. Pour in heavy cream, making sure apples are fully covered.
7. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is set.
8. Top with Streusel Topping (see below) and serve warm with whipped cream.
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Combine dry ingredients and cold butter in a bowl. Use fingers or a pastry blender to work butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add chopped walnuts and mix until just combined.
Blackberry Cream Pie with Honey Drizzle
This classic dessert combines the sweetness of honey with the tartness of blackberries, all wrapped up in a creamy pie crust. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this show-stopping dessert in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, and honey until stiff peaks form.
3. Roll out pie crust and fill with blackberries.
4. Pour cream mixture over berries.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is set.
6. Allow to cool before serving.
Honey Drizzle:
1. Warm honey by placing jar in warm water for a few minutes.
2. Drizzle warmed honey over pie.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Salted Caramel Cream Pie with Pretzel Crust
Salted Caramel Cream Pie with Pretzel Crust Recipe
This rich and creamy pie combines the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, topped with a crunchy pretzel crust. Perfect for any occasion, this show-stopping dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups pretzels, crushed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and flaky sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crushed pretzels, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Bake crust for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
5. Pour caramel sauce over whipped cream and mix until well combined.
6. Pour filling into baked pretzel crust and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy delights! This collection of 20 easy cream pie recipes is perfect for beginners. From classic vanilla and no-bake chocolate, to fruity twists like strawberry and blueberry, there’s something for everyone. Plus, creative combinations like peanut butter and mocha will satisfy any sweet tooth. With simple instructions and mouthwatering photos, you’ll be whipping up your own masterpieces in no time. Treat yourself or share with friends and family – either way, these delicious cream pies are sure to bring smiles all around!
