Description
This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is a smooth, creamy baked custard infused with warm cinnamon and pure vanilla. Delicately spiced and not overly sweet, it’s a classic, comforting dessert that feels special enough for the holidays while remaining simple and timeless.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Custard Filling
- 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
Optional Topping
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and set it aside to be filled later.
- Whisk Eggs: In a medium bowl, whisk the 3 large eggs until they are well blended and smooth to ensure a creamy custard texture.
- Add Sugar: Add 3/4 cup granulated sugar to the eggs and whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and has turned slightly pale in color.
- Incorporate Dairy: Slowly whisk in 2 cups of whole milk and 1/4 cup heavy cream to combine everything smoothly without causing lumps.
- Mix Spices and Flavor: Stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until fully combined, distributing flavors evenly throughout the custard.
- Fill Pie Crust: Carefully pour the custard mixture into the prepared pie crust, ensuring it’s evenly spread without spilling.
- Bake Custard: Place the pie on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle, indicating perfect doneness.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate and chill for at least 2 hours before slicing to achieve the best texture.
Notes
- Do not overbake; the custard will continue to set as it cools ensuring a creamy texture.
- For a deeper spice flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the custard mixture.
- This pie is best served chilled or slightly cool, not warm, to enjoy its creamy texture and delicate flavors.
- Can be made one day ahead and refrigerated until serving, making it a convenient holiday dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
