Northern Ch’ti Sugar Pie: A Sweet Taste of Northern France
Welcome to a delightful culinary journey to the heart of Northern France with our Northern Ch’ti Sugar Pie, known locally as Tarte au Sucre. This iconic dessert hails from the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region, where rich, comforting flavors define the local cuisine. The Ch’ti people, known for their warm hospitality and love for hearty, indulgent dishes, have perfected this sweet, caramelized tart that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a special treat. With a buttery, yeast-based dough, a luscious brown sugar filling, and a creamy custard topping, this pie is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating an authentic Ch’ti Sugar Pie with step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and ideas to make it your own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this dessert is approachable yet impressive, offering a taste of French tradition that’s sure to delight your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Ch’ti Sugar Pie
- Rich Regional Heritage: This recipe captures the essence of Northern France’s culinary traditions, bringing a piece of Ch’ti culture to your table.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of a soft, yeasted dough, sweet brown sugar, and creamy custard creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm for a cozy treat or chilled for a refreshing twist—either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
- Simple Ingredients, Stunning Results: Made with pantry staples, this pie transforms humble ingredients into a decadent masterpiece.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
For the Dough:
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tablespoon (10 g) fresh baker’s yeast (or 1 teaspoon active dry yeast)
- ⅓ cup (100 ml) whole milk, warmed to 100–110°F (38–43°C)
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- ¼ cup (50 g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 pinch fine sea salt
For the Filling:
- ¾ cup (100 g) dark brown sugar, packed
- ¾ cup (200 ml) heavy cream or crème fraîche
- 1 large egg, room temperature
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl for yeast activation
- Whisk or fork
- Rolling pin
- 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan or pie dish
- Parchment paper or clean kitchen towel
- Oven mitts
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Begin by preparing the yeast, which gives the dough its light, airy texture. In a small bowl, combine the fresh baker’s yeast (crumbled) or active dry yeast with the warm milk. Stir gently until the yeast dissolves, then let the mixture rest for 8–10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the surface becomes frothy and slightly bubbly, indicating the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Tip: Ensure the milk isn’t too hot (above 115°F/46°C), as this can kill the yeast, or too cold, as it won’t activate properly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted flour and a pinch of sea salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the melted butter, one large egg, and the activated yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until the ingredients start to come together.
Once combined, transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes. The dough should be smooth, soft, and slightly elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a sprinkle of flour, but avoid adding too much, as this can make the dough dense.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Form the dough into a ball and place it back in the mixing bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper and set it in a warm, draft-free spot—such as near a sunny window or on top of a warm (but not hot) oven. Let the dough rise for 60–75 minutes, or until it has doubled in size. This slow rise ensures a tender, flavorful crust that’s characteristic of Ch’ti Sugar Pie.
Tip: If your kitchen is cool, place the bowl inside a turned-off oven with a pan of warm water to create a cozy environment for the dough.
Step 4: Preheat and Prep
While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch tart pan or pie dish with butter to prevent sticking. If you prefer a crispier edge, dust the pan with a touch of flour after greasing.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. On a lightly floured surface, roll it out to a circle about 10–11 inches in diameter, ensuring it’s slightly larger than your tart pan to account for the sides. Carefully transfer the dough to the prepared pan, pressing it gently into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough for a neat appearance.
Step 6: Add the Filling
Sprinkle the dark brown sugar evenly over the base of the dough, creating a generous layer that will caramelize beautifully during baking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream (or crème fraîche) and the remaining egg until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the brown sugar, ensuring it spreads evenly to cover the entire surface.
Tip: For an extra touch of decadence, add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the cream mixture for a subtle flavor boost.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set with a slightly caramelized, glossy top. Keep an eye on the pie during the last few minutes to avoid over-browning. The center should be just set but still slightly jiggly, as it will firm up as it cools.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes. This brief cooling period allows the filling to settle, making it easier to slice. Serve the Ch’ti Sugar Pie warm for a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth experience, or let it cool completely for a firmer texture that’s equally delicious.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Ch’ti Style: Enjoy a slice with a cup of strong coffee or tea, as is traditional in Northern France.
- Indulgent Twist: Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
- Festive Presentation: Dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve alongside a glass of crisp cider or a dessert wine like Sauternes to complement the pie’s sweetness.
Tips for Success
- Yeast Freshness: Check the expiration date on your yeast, as old yeast may not activate properly, resulting in a dense dough.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the egg and butter are at room temperature to blend smoothly into the dough.
- Customize the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the brown sugar to ¾ cup or experiment with a mix of brown and white sugar for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dough a day in advance and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight for even deeper flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy filling keeps the pie moist, but the crust may soften slightly over time.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to restore the crust’s crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dough soggy.
- Freezing: Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Sugar: 18 g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
A Taste of Ch’ti Culture
The Northern Ch’ti Sugar Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a symbol of the warmth and generosity of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region. Known for its mining history and vibrant community spirit, the Ch’ti culture celebrates simple, hearty foods that bring people together. This tart, with its golden crust and caramelized filling, is often enjoyed at family gatherings, local festivals, or as a sweet end to a meal of regional specialties like carbonnade flamande (a beef and beer stew).
By baking this pie, you’re not just creating a dessert—you’re preserving a piece of French heritage. Share it with loved ones, and let the sweet, creamy flavors transport you to the cobblestone streets and cozy cafés of Northern France.
Variations to Try
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds over the brown sugar before adding the cream mixture for added texture.
- Fruit Fusion: Add a thin layer of sliced apples or pears beneath the brown sugar for a fruity twist that complements the caramelized filling.
- Spiced Delight: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the dough for a warm, aromatic note.
Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 60–75 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
Final Thoughts
This Northern Ch’ti Sugar Pie is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in baking. With its buttery crust, sweet brown sugar, and creamy custard, it’s a dessert that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a taste of France, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
We’d love to hear how your Ch’ti Sugar Pie turns out! Share your creations with us on social media using hashtags like #Ch’tiSugarPie, #FrenchDesserts, or #TasteOfTheNorth. Bon appétit, or as the Ch’ti might say, À l’plaisir!
