If you’re dreaming of a dessert that wraps you in the warmth of cinnamon and vanilla, this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie is your answer. It’s like a cozy hug in pie form—rich, smooth, and perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Whether it’s for Christmas Eve dinner, a festive gathering, or just a sweet treat to enjoy by the fire, this pie brings the magic of the season to your table. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories (approx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dessert | 15 mins | 45–50 mins | 8–10 | 320 per slice |
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pie Crust:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 3–4 tbsp ice water
For the Custard Filling:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Step‑By‑Step Instructions
- Prepare the pie crust
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. - Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press the dough into the dish and trim any excess. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool. - Prepare the custard filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and the sugar has dissolved. Do not let it boil. - Whisk the eggs and spices
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. - Temper the eggs
Gradually add a small amount of the warm cream mixture to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Continue adding the warm cream mixture in small amounts until about half of it has been incorporated into the eggs. - Combine and cook the custard
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining warm cream mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 10–12 minutes. Do not let it boil. - Fill the pie crust
Remove the custard from heat and strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into the prepared pie crust to remove any curdled bits. Smooth the top with a spatula. - Bake the pie
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the custard is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The center should still jiggle slightly. - Cool and serve
Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or whipped cream, if desired.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Chill the dough: For a flaky crust, ensure the dough is well-chilled before rolling it out.
- Avoid boiling the custard: Cooking the custard over low heat and stirring constantly helps prevent curdling.
- Storage: Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make-ahead: The pie can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Recipe Variations
- Spiced variations: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice to the custard filling for additional warmth.
- Dairy-free option: Substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut milk and a dairy-free butter for the crust.
- Gluten-free crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust to accommodate dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this delightful pie with a warm cup of spiced cider or a classic hot chocolate. It’s also perfect alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of holiday joy. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or enjoying a quiet moment by yourself, it brings the festive spirit to life. Happy baking and even happier holidays!