Description
This Christmas Eve Custard Pie with Cinnamon & Vanilla is a rich, creamy dessert perfect for the holiday season. Featuring a smooth custard infused with warm cinnamon and pure vanilla, this classic American pie is baked to golden perfection in a flaky 9-inch crust. Serve chilled or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream and a dusting of spices for a festive finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Custard Filling
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk (warm, not hot)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish
- Whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked 9-inch pie crust in a pie dish and crimp or flute the edges for a decorative finish. Set aside while you prepare the custard.
- Mix Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and light-colored, which helps create a silky custard base.
- Add Warm Milk: Gradually pour in the warm whole milk while whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from cooking prematurely. This step ensures a smooth custard without lumps.
- Incorporate Flavors: Stir in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until all the ingredients are fully combined. This gives the custard its signature warm, aromatic profile.
- Pour Custard into Crust: Carefully pour the custard mixture into the prepared pie crust, distributing it evenly.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly when gently shaken. Insert a knife near the center—if it comes out clean, the pie is ready.
- Cool the Pie: Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Then place it in the refrigerator to chill for 2 to 3 hours. Proper chilling helps the custard set fully for the best texture.
- Serve: Serve the custard pie chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg if desired to enhance the festive flavors.
Notes
- Warming the milk before adding it to the eggs helps the custard bake evenly and prevents curdling.
- This custard pie can be made a day ahead and safely stored, covered, in the refrigerator.
- For a festive twist, add a splash of eggnog or a pinch of ground clove to the custard mixture before baking.
