Description
Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is a rich and creamy holiday dessert featuring a flaky, buttery crust filled with a smooth custard infused with warm cinnamon and sweet vanilla. This elegant yet easy-to-make pie delivers a balanced blend of festive spices and creamy texture, perfect for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-made or homemade flaky pie crust (9-inch)
Custard Filling
- 4 large fresh eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Blind bake your pie crust by lining it with parchment paper and filling it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake at 375°F (190°C) until the crust is golden and crisp, about 15 minutes. Remove weights and parchment, then set aside.
- Mix the Custard Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until smooth. Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, stirring gently to combine. Mix in the ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and optional nutmeg until all flavors are well blended.
- Pour and Bake: Carefully pour the custard mixture into the pre-baked pie shell. Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the custard is just set and lightly golden around the edges. The center should still have a slight jiggle.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the pie from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the custard to firm up and develop the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs and dairy for smooth mixing and to prevent curdling during baking.
- Do not overbake the custard; it should jiggle slightly in the center when removed from the oven.
- Blind bake the crust properly to avoid sogginess and maintain crispness.
- Use freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg for the best flavor.
- Chill the pie for at least 3 hours before serving to improve texture and flavor melding.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pie)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
Keywords: Christmas pie, cinnamon custard pie, vanilla custard pie, holiday dessert, custard pie, cinnamon vanilla pie