There is something truly magical about the Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe that makes it a standout dessert at any holiday gathering. This pie combines creamy custard with warm cinnamon and fragrant vanilla in a tender crust that whispers cozy festive vibes in every bite. The silky-smooth texture paired with the gentle spice feels like wrapping yourself in a holiday hug, making it the perfect sweet to share with friends and family on that special night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this pie lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to bring balance and warmth, ensuring the custard is rich, the flavor aromatic, and the crust flaky and inviting. Let’s break down the essentials:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch): A convenient base that saves time while delivering a buttery, flaky foundation.
- 2 cups whole milk: Provides the creamy body and smooth texture essential for a traditional custard.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard just enough without overpowering the subtle vanilla and cinnamon notes.
- 4 large eggs: The binding agents that set the custard into a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses the pie with its signature warm and inviting holiday spice.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Adds depth and a sweet floral aroma that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
How to Make Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pie Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a consistent baking temperature so your custard sets perfectly. Prepare your pie dish by greasing it lightly or simply using the pre-made crust, ready to hold the luscious filling.
Step 2: Fit the Pie Crust
Carefully unroll your pie crust and lay it into the pie dish. Make sure the crust fits snugly along the edges without any tears. A well-fitted crust prevents leakage and helps achieve that golden, flaky edge that’s so tempting.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, granulated sugar, eggs, ground cinnamon, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step is where the magic starts, as the custard base perfectly balances sweet and spice.
Step 4: Pour the Filling Into the Crust
Gently pour your custard mixture into the prepared crust, taking care not to disturb the edges. The smooth pour ensures even cooking and a flawless custard texture once baked.
Step 5: Bake Until Set
Bake the pie in your preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the custard is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center, just like a classic custard pie should be.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature. Cooling not only helps the filling firm up for clean slices but also lets the flavors meld together beautifully. When ready, slice and serve with a bit of whipped cream or an extra cinnamon sprinkle for that added festive touch.
How to Serve Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of ground cinnamon or a dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the warm spices in this pie perfectly. For an extra indulgent touch, consider melting a bit of white chocolate or adding toasted pecans to give textural contrast and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This custard pie pairs wonderfully with classic holiday sides like spiced mulled cider or a warm cup of coffee. Serving fresh fruit, such as sliced pears or pomegranate seeds, adds a refreshing brightness that balances the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive feast, present the pie on a decorative holiday platter and use edible gold leaf or star-shaped cinnamon sticks as whimsical toppers. You can also cut small slices and top each one with a cinnamon stick and a mint leaf for elegant individual servings that wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. This preserves the pie’s delicate texture and fresh flavors for up to 3 days.
Freezing
While custard pies are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this pie if needed. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat slices at a low temperature, about 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes, or until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture. Serve warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon or whipped cream to restore its fresh-baked charm.
FAQs
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Absolutely! While using a pre-made crust saves time, homemade pie crust adds that extra layer of love and flavor that’s perfect for Christmas. Just be sure to blind bake it slightly if you prefer a firmer base.
What is the best type of milk to use?
Whole milk is recommended for its creaminess, which gives the custard that silky, rich texture. However, you can use 2% milk, though the pie might be slightly less creamy.
Can I add other spices to the custard?
Definitely! Nutmeg or a pinch of ground cloves can add lovely complexity to the custard, but be careful not to overshadow the classic cinnamon-vanilla flavor.
How do I know when the custard is perfectly baked?
The custard should be mostly set with a slight jiggle in the center when gently shaken. This ensures the pie finishes setting as it cools without becoming too firm or rubbery.
Is this pie suitable for serving to children?
Yes! The flavors are gentle and warm without any alcohol or intense spices, making it a lovely dessert for kids and adults alike during holiday celebrations.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that wraps up your Christmas Eve celebration in pure comfort and joy, the Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe is the answer. It’s straightforward, satisfying, and packed with heartwarming flavors that make every bite feel like a festive celebration. Give this pie a try, and you might just find a new holiday tradition that everyone looks forward to year after year.
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Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie is a warm, comforting dessert featuring a smooth cinnamon and vanilla custard baked in a flaky pre-made pie crust. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it offers a delightful balance of sweet and spice with a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a dusting of extra cinnamon.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
Custard Filling
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your pie dish by lightly greasing it or ensuring it is clean and ready for the crust.
- Prepare Crust: Lay the pre-made pie crust into the prepared pie dish, making sure it fits snugly and evenly across the bottom and sides.
- Mix Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, granulated sugar, large eggs, ground cinnamon, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Fill Pie: Pour the custard mixture carefully into the pie crust, distributing evenly.
- Bake Custard Pie: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center when gently shaken.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature before slicing. Serve with whipped cream or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the custard is not fully firm when baking finishes; it will continue to set as it cools.
- Use whole milk for a richer and creamier custard. You can substitute with 2% milk but expect a lighter texture.
- Pre-made pie crust saves time but feel free to use homemade if preferred.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean, neat slices.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before serving.
