Bring 4 cups salted water to a boil in a medium pot.
Slowly add the grits, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Add 1 teaspoon salt and partially cover.
Reduce the heat to medium and cook about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Uncover the pot and stir in the butter, sugar and 3 tablespoons of the cream.
Continue to stir, adding the remaining cream, a few tablespoons at a time, until the mixture thickens and begins to sputter slightly, about 15 minutes.