Name: Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought); 3 large eggs; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups whole milk; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Ground cinnamon or nutmeg; Lightly sweetened whipped cream

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If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly blends nostalgia with festive warmth, this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe is exactly what you need on your holiday table. It’s a luscious, creamy custard with that cozy hug of cinnamon and delicate vanilla, baked to silky perfection in a buttery crust. This pie manages to feel both elegantly simple and heartwarmingly comforting, making it a timeless holiday favorite that everyone will remember long after the last slice is gone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pie crust with a light yellow smooth filling sits in the center on a thin white marbled surface, surrounded by small white bowls containing white fluffy whipped cream, white sour cream with swirls, and white cottage cheese. Two white eggs rest below the pie, alongside a white bowl of light brown powder and another bowl with reddish-brown ground spice. Above the pie, there is a small white bowl of coarse white salt, a very fine white sugar bowl, a small glass with light yellow liquid, dark brown cinnamon sticks wrapped in white paper, and another small white bowl filled with dark brown amber liquid, all arranged neatly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe comes from a handful of simple, quality ingredients that each play a vital role in the final flavor and texture. With just eggs, milk, cream, and warming spices, you’ll create a pie that’s silky, fragrant, and utterly satisfying.

Unbaked 9-inch pie crust: Provides a flaky, buttery foundation that holds the custard perfectly.
3 large eggs: The binding agent that creates that smooth, creamy custard texture.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the spices.
2 cups whole milk: Keeps the custard rich and smooth without heaviness.
1/4 cup heavy cream: Elevates the creaminess for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth, complementing the cinnamon perfectly.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice, bringing festive warmth and aroma.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle complexity and a nutty undertone.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors, balancing sweetness and spice.

How to Make Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it into place so it will hold the custard filling without shrinking or bubbling. Set this aside for the filling while you prepare the custard mixture.

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk the eggs until they are fully blended and smooth. This step is crucial because it ensures the custard will have a consistently creamy texture without any lumps.

Step 3: Add the Sugar

Gradually add the granulated sugar to the eggs and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly pale. This helps dissolve the sugar completely, giving the custard a silky finish.

Step 4: Incorporate Milk and Cream

Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, combining them gently with your egg mixture. Using both creates a velvety richness that balances the pie’s delicate spices beautifully.

Step 5: Stir in Spices and Vanilla

Now add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir thoroughly to make sure all the flavors are evenly distributed, turning your custard into an irresistible fragrant treat.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Carefully pour the custard filling into the prepared pie crust. Place the pie on the center rack of your oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set and firm but the center still has a slight jiggle—this perfect wobble means it will set nicely as it cools.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Then transfer it to the fridge to chill for at least two hours. Chilling helps the custard firm up while enhancing the flavor, giving you that classic, creamy slice.

How to Serve Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To make your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe even more special, a light dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top adds a festive look and a hint of extra spice. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a soft, fluffy contrast that pairs beautifully with the silky custard.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs perfectly with simple holiday beverages like hot apple cider, mulled wine, or even a steaming cup of coffee. For a holiday meal, serve it alongside roasted chestnuts or a fresh winter fruit salad to complement the warm flavors of the custard.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed gingerbread cookies or candied pecans on top of your whipped cream. Or serve individual slices in clear dessert dishes layered with a cinnamon-spiced berry compote for an elegant presentation that surprises and delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover slices of this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe should be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. Properly stored, the pie will stay fresh and creamy for up to three days, making it a great make-ahead holiday dessert.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. While freezing custards can sometimes alter texture slightly, this pie holds up fairly well for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to preserve its creamy delight.

Reheating

This custard pie is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it slightly warmer, let it sit out for about 20 minutes after refrigeration. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the custard to become grainy or rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?

Absolutely! Whether homemade or store-bought, a good quality pie crust will work beautifully for this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe. Just make sure to choose one that bakes well and has good flavor.

What makes this custard pie different from pumpkin pie?

This custard pie is simpler and more delicate, with a smooth vanilla base enhanced by cinnamon and nutmeg rather than the bold pumpkin spices. It’s lighter, less sweet, and truly highlights the classic custard texture.

Can I add extra spices for a stronger flavor?

Yes! A pinch of ground cloves or allspice can add wonderful depth to the warm spice palette. Just be cautious not to overpower the vanilla and cinnamon balance that defines this recipe.

How can I tell when the custard is fully baked?

The edges should be set and look firm, but the center should still have a gentle jiggle to it, like gelatin. This ensures the custard will finish setting as it cools, resulting in that perfectly creamy texture.

Is this pie suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this pie is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or gelatin. It’s a comforting holiday dessert that anyone following a vegetarian diet can enjoy without worry.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of serving a freshly baked Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe at your holiday gathering. It’s that rare dessert that brings old-fashioned charm, smooth textures, and just the right amount of spice to create joyful memories. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, this pie promises a cozy, sweet finish to your celebrations. Give it a try—you just might find it becomes your new holiday tradition.