Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (205°C) and place the ready-made pie crust on a baking tray. (If blind baking, bake the crust for 10 minutes and let cool while preparing the filling.)

Step 2

In a large saucepan, mix the white sugar, salt, half-and-half, and whipping cream. Bring the mixture to a boil, mixing constantly.

Step 3

Add the brown sugar and cornstarch to a large bowl and mix well to combine.

Step 4

Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the bowl, whisking constantly until about half of the cream is blended.

Step 5

Whisk gently until smooth, then pour the brown sugar-cream mixture into the saucepan with the rest of the cream mixture.

Step 6

Add butter or margarine and cook over medium heat.

Step 7

Continue whisking for 5 minutes, or until thick. Then reduce the heat to low, stir in vanilla, and simmer for another minute.

Step 8

Pour the pie mixture into the pie crust, sprinkle over the cinnamon and nutmeg (if using), and bake for 10 minutes.

Step 9

Turn the oven down to 350°F/175°C and bake for another 25 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 10

Let the pie cool completely before serving.