This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie is the perfect dessert to bring warmth and sweetness to your holiday celebrations. With its silky-smooth custard filling, infused with hints of cinnamon and vanilla, and baked in a flaky crust, it’s an irresistible treat to share with family and friends. A dusting of cinnamon on top adds the final festive touch!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade, if preferred)
For the Custard Filling:
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (plus extra for topping)
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Cooling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll out the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim and flute the edges for a decorative look. Use a fork to prick the bottom to prevent puffing.
Step 2: Blind Bake the Crust
Line the crust with parchment paper or aluminum foil and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.
Bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Custard Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine milk and cream. Heat gently over medium-low heat until just warm—do not boil.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Slowly add the warm milk mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the custard filling into the prepared pie crust.
Carefully transfer to the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least another hour before serving.
Sprinkle additional ground cinnamon on top for a festive touch.
Tips for Perfect Custard Pie
Temper the Eggs: Warm the milk mixture gently to avoid scrambling the eggs during mixing.
Don’t Overbake: The pie should have a slight jiggle in the center—it will firm up as it cools.
Make Ahead: This pie can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for Christmas Eve preparations.
Customize the Flavors: Add a splash of almond or rum extract for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 21 g
- Sodium: 190 mg
This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie is a classic dessert that combines elegance with ease. Its smooth texture, warming spices, and festive flavor make it a show-stopper for any holiday gathering. Bake it this Christmas Eve and enjoy a slice of holiday perfection