If you’re searching for a dessert that’s both comforting and elegantly simple, this Creamy Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Imagine a luscious custard filling that perfectly balances the warmth of cinnamon with the sweet aroma of vanilla, all nestled in a crisp, buttery crust. This pie offers that perfect silky texture with just a hint of spice, making it an ideal treat for any occasion, especially cozy holiday gatherings or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in creating the smooth texture and delightful flavors that define this pie. From the richness of the dairy to the warm spices, every element contributes to making this custard pie a standout dessert.
- Pre-made pie crust: A time-saving base that provides a flaky, buttery foundation for your custard.
- Whole milk: Adds creaminess and body to the custard, ensuring it isn’t too heavy or thin.
- Heavy cream: Boosts the richness and velvety texture for that decadent mouthfeel.
- Large eggs: The secret to the custard’s silky set; they bind the mixture beautifully.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering, balancing the spices perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with a warm, inviting fragrance and depth of flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy, aromatic spice that elevates the vanilla and sweet notes.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, ensuring the custard isn’t flat or one-dimensional.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the custard just right, giving it that perfect creamy consistency.
How to Make Creamy Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gently press the pre-made pie crust into your pie dish, making sure it fits snugly on the bottom and up the sides. Poke a few holes in the base with a fork—this little trick prevents bubbles while baking. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until it turns a light, golden brown. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool; this pre-baking step ensures your crust stays crisp beneath the creamy filling.
Step 2: Heat the Milk and Cream
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring every so often, just until you see little bubbles forming around the edges—but don’t let it boil. This gradual heating awakens the flavors and prepares the dairy for a smooth custard. Once hot, take it off the heat and let it cool down a bit before combining with the eggs.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs and Dry Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together your eggs, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. This is where the magic begins—combining these ingredients until smooth ensures a uniform custard base without lumps. The cinnamon and vanilla here create a wonderful aroma that’ll whet your appetite.
Step 4: Temper the Egg Mixture
Now, the crucial part: slowly pour the warm milk and cream mix into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. This process, known as tempering, prevents the eggs from scrambling by gradually bringing up their temperature. Keep whisking until the custard is silky smooth and well combined—this luscious blend will soon become the centerpiece of your pie.
Step 5: Pour and Settle the Custard
Carefully pour your custard mixture into the pre-baked pie crust. To help the filling settle evenly, gently shake the pie dish back and forth. This ensures a uniform bake and a perfectly smooth surface that promises delicious results.
Step 6: Bake the Custard
Place the pie into your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’re looking for a custard that’s just set but still has a slight jiggle in the center when you gently shake the pan. The top should develop a lovely light golden color and give off that irresistible cinnamon-vanilla scent.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once out of the oven, set your pie on a wire rack and let it cool for at least two hours. This resting time allows the custard to fully set, making slicing neat and easy, while intensifying the flavors. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
How to Serve Creamy Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To make your slice look as good as it tastes, consider dusting a little extra cinnamon or powdered sugar on top. Fresh whipped cream pairs beautifully here, adding lightness and creaminess that complement the custard. You could also sprinkle crushed nuts like pecans for a delightful crunch, or add a few fresh berries for a pop of color and brightness.
Side Dishes
This luscious custard pie shines wonderfully on its own, but if you want to serve it alongside something else, think about a simple fresh fruit salad or a cup of spiced tea or coffee. These lighter sides prevent the meal from feeling too heavy and balance the richness of the pie perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve individual slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You could even turn this pie into the star of a dessert platter with small bite-sized squares garnished with cinnamon sticks. Elegant and fun presentations elevate the whole experience, making your Creamy Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe even more memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any pie left, store it in the refrigerator covered loosely with plastic wrap or foil to keep the custard fresh and protect it from picking up any fridge odors. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, perfect for enjoying next-day leftovers or sharing with loved ones.
Freezing
While the texture of custard pies can change after freezing, you can wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to a month. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving, but keep in mind the custard might be a little less creamy after freezing.
Reheating
Rewarm your custard pie slices gently in a low-temperature oven (around 275°F/135°C) for 10 to 15 minutes if you prefer it slightly warm. Avoid using a microwave as it can alter the texture. Alternatively, enjoy the pie chilled for that classic, creamy feel.
FAQs
Can I make the pie crust from scratch instead of using pre-made?
Absolutely! A homemade crust adds a personal touch and can be tailored to your taste, whether you prefer a more buttery shortcrust or a flaky pastry. Just be sure to prebake it as instructed to keep the bottom crisp against the custard filling.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the whole milk and heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or almond milk, but be aware this will subtly change the flavor and texture. Also, use a dairy-free pie crust to keep the recipe truly dairy-free.
Why is cornstarch used in this custard?
Cornstarch acts as a stabilizer and thickening agent, helping the custard set nicely without becoming too firm or rubbery. It also helps create that irresistible creamy texture.
Can this pie be made ahead of time for a holiday gathering?
Definitely! This Creamy Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe is perfect for making a day in advance—it actually benefits from some resting time in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully and the texture to firm up.
What can I do if the custard cracks after baking?
Cracking can happen if the pie is overbaked or cooled too quickly. To prevent cracking, bake just until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly and allow it to cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating. Gentle handling is key!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Creamy Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe enough—it’s like a warm hug baked right into dessert form. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply craving something that feels special yet approachable, this pie never disappoints. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of custard bliss that perfectly blends cinnamon’s cozy spice with vanilla’s sweet embrace.
Print
Creamy Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes (includes cooling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Delight features a smooth and velvety custard infused with warm cinnamon and aromatic vanilla, nestled in a perfectly pre-baked flaky pie crust. A comforting dessert that’s ideal for holiday gatherings, offering a delightful balance of creamy richness and subtle spice.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-made pie crust
Custard Filling
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pre-made pie crust in your pie dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Poke a few holes in the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Heat Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot but not boiling. You want small bubbles to form around the edges. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Mix Eggs and Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Milk Mixture and Egg Mixture: Slowly pour the hot milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Whisk until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Fill Pie Crust: Carefully pour the custard mixture into the pre-baked pie crust. Give it a gentle shake to ensure the mixture settles evenly.
- Bake the Custard Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The top should be slightly golden and fragrant.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the custard to set fully for clean slices and optimal texture.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs for a smoother custard mixture.
- Do not overbake; the center should jiggle slightly to ensure a creamy texture after chilling.
- For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon or powdered sugar on top before serving.
- Cover loosely with foil if the crust edges brown too quickly during baking.
- Chilling the pie overnight enhances the flavors and texture.
