Name: Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie for Festive Cheers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 200 min
Ingredients: 1 pie crust Pie Crust (Homemade or store-bought); 4 large Eggs (Fresh, room-temperature); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 2 cups Whole Milk; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 2 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract (Choose pure for superior flavor); 1 pinch Salt (To balance sweetness); optional Ground Nutmeg (For warmth); optional Orange Zest (For a citrus twist)

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“Cinnamon and vanilla wafting through the house can transport you straight to cozy holidays spent with family.” That’s the magic we’re capturing with this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie. Nestled in a flaky crust, this heavenly pie combines silky custard with the warm spices of cinnamon and sweet vanilla, making it a comforting dessert that perfectly embodies the festive spirit. Whether you’re a baking newbie or a seasoned pro, this recipe strikes the ideal balance between simplicity and elegance—sure to make any holiday gathering memorable. Plus, it’s a delightful crowd-pleaser that can be prepared in advance, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities. Curious about how to bring this festive treat to life in your kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this pie a holiday favorite?

Irresistible Flavor: The Cinnamon-Vanilla combination delivers a cozy, nostalgic taste that instantly elevates your holiday dessert table.

Festive Appeal: This pie is not only delicious but visually stunning, making it a showstopper at any gathering.

Easy to Make: Even if you’re a baking newcomer, the straightforward instructions will guide you to success—just like my other hits, like Smores Hand Pies or Blueberry Cookie Bliss.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and refrigerate to save time on the big day, giving you the freedom to mingle with loved ones.

Customizable: Feel free to experiment with alternative crusts or spice blends, like a graham cracker crust or a pinch of nutmeg for added warmth!

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Ingredients

For the Crust
• Pie Crust – Use a homemade crust for ultimate flavor or a quality store-bought crust for convenience.

For the Custard Filling
• Eggs – Fresh, room-temperature eggs are key to achieving a velvety texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the custard while allowing the cinnamon and vanilla to shine through.
• Whole Milk – Contributes creaminess to the custard, keeping it light yet rich.
• Heavy Cream – Adds a luxurious richness that balances the lighter milk.
• Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warm flavor; steeping a stick can enhance the overall depth of the custard.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Choose pure extract for its superior flavor and aromatic qualities.
• Pinch of Salt – Helps to balance the sweetness and enhance all flavors in the pie.
• Optional Add-Ins – Consider adding ground nutmeg for warmth or orange zest for a delightful citrus twist.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Step 1: Pre-bake the Crust
Begin by rolling out your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring it fits snugly and gently pressing it into the edges. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place parchment paper filled with pie weights in the crust. Blind-bake for 15 minutes, then carefully remove the weights and parchment. Continue baking for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is golden brown; set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare Custard Base
In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and pure vanilla extract over medium heat. Stir gently and heat until the mixture steams, being careful not to allow it to boil. If you used a whole cinnamon stick, remove it at this point for a smoother custard base. This aromatic blend will infuse your custard filling with delightful holiday flavors.

Step 3: Whisk Eggs & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add fresh, room-temperature eggs along with granulated sugar and a pinches of salt. Using a whisk, beat the mixture vigorously until it becomes pale and slightly thickened, roughly 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the light and airy texture of the custard in your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

Step 4: Temper & Combine
Slowly pour the steaming milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture while continuously whisking to temper the eggs. This prevents them from scrambling. Once combined, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another bowl to ensure a velvety-smooth custard. This step is essential for creating the luxurious filling that enhances the pie’s festive nature.

Step 5: Fill & Bake
Carefully pour the smooth custard into your pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and place the pie in the oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly. This subtle wobble shows that your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie will have the perfect creamy consistency once cooled.

Step 6: Cool & Chill
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. After cooling, cover it loosely and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the custard fully sets, making it easier to slice and serve at your holiday gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pies are perfect for busy holiday preparations! You can prepare the crust up to 48 hours in advance, storing it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and prevent drying out. The custard filling can be made up to 24 hours ahead, just remember to let it cool completely before pouring it into the crust. To maintain the silky texture, refrigerate the filled pie until you’re ready to bake, ideally no more than a day before serving. When it’s time to enjoy, simply bake the pie as directed, and you’ll impress your guests with a delightful, make-ahead holiday treat!

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize this pie, transforming it into something uniquely yours with delicious twists!

Crust Options: Swap the standard pastry crust for a graham cracker or gingerbread cookie crust, adding richness and spice.
Spice Blends: Introduce a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth and depth. Bold spices can turn this custard pie into something extraordinary.
Alcohol Twist: For a little adult fun, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of dark rum, bourbon, or brandy to enhance the flavor profile. Imagine the holiday cheer with this delightful addition!
Mini Pies: Craft individual desserts by pouring the custard into small tart pans or ramekins, making perfect mini pies for festive gatherings.
Citrus Zest: Brighten up the filling with a teaspoon of freshly grated orange or lemon zest. This lively touch can elevate the overall flavor, making it fresh and zesty.
Chocolate Drizzle: For all the chocoholics out there, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top can add a rich, indulgent flair to your custard pie.
Dairy-Free Delight: Make it dairy-free by substituting almond milk and coconut cream. This swaps will retain creaminess while keeping it light.
Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of crushed almonds or pecans on top before serving. Their crunch will provide an appealing contrast to the smooth, silky filling.

Enhance your holiday dessert table with these variations and explore delightful options like my Lemon Raspberry Cookies for even more festive fun!

Storage Tips for Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Fridge: Store leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in a loosely covered container to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the pie to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This preserves the silky consistency of the custard filling.

Reheating: If preferred warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat as it can alter the texture of the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

Expert Tips for Holiday Pie

• Proper Egg Tempering: Take your time when tempering the eggs to avoid scrambling. Gradually add hot milk to the egg mixture while whisking continuously.

• Check Baking Time: The Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie center should jiggle slightly when removed from the oven. Overbaking will cause a dry texture.

• Blind Bake Wisely: Blind baking the crust is crucial; it prevents a soggy bottom. Ensure it’s golden and crisp before adding the custard filling.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, room-temperature eggs and pure vanilla extract. This simple choice elevates the pie.

• Chill Before Slicing: Allow the pie to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This not only sets the custard but enhances the flavors.

What to Serve with Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Delightful pairings can elevate your festive dessert into a memorable meal experience that warms hearts and fills bellies.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast, enhancing the pie’s creaminess.
Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance, making presentation effortless.
Mulled Wine: The spiced warmth of mulled wine echoes the cinnamon in your pie, creating a cozy, celebratory atmosphere.
Spiced Hot Cocoa: Pairing a cup of rich, spiced hot cocoa enhances the pie’s flavors, making every bite feel like a warm hug.
Coffee: A rich brew balances the sweetness of the custard while complementing its velvety texture and aromatic spices.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast, cutting through the custard’s richness beautifully.
Nutty Biscotti: Enjoying a slice of pie with a piece of nutty biscotti adds texture, making for a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad brings a burst of color and natural juiciness to the table, offering a refreshing palate cleanser.
Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla or cinnamon ice cream melts against the warm custard, creating a delightful combination that’s luxurious and indulgent.

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of milk should I use for the custard?
Absolutely! I recommend using whole milk for a creamy, luscious custard. It provides the right balance of richness without being too heavy. If you prefer a lighter option, you could use 2% milk, but keep in mind that it might slightly alter the final texture.

How can I tell if my custard is fully set?
Very good question! The center of your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie should jiggle slightly when you remove it from the oven. This jiggle indicates that it’s perfectly creamy. If the filling appears too firm, it might have overbaked, so keep a close watch during the last minutes of baking.

How do I store leftovers of the pie?
To keep your pie fresh, store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place the pie in a loosely covered container to prevent it from drying out. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, allowing it to freeze for up to 1 month.

Can I freeze the Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great option. Make sure the pie is fully cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just transfer the pie to the refrigerator the night before to thaw gently. This will help maintain that wonderful silky consistency you love.

What if I have an egg allergy?
If you’re looking for alternatives due to an egg allergy, you might try using a commercial egg replacer or a mixture of silken tofu blended until smooth as a substitute. Generally, about 1/4 cup of silken tofu can replace one egg. However, do note that the texture may vary slightly from the original recipe.

How should I serve this pie?
For a festive touch, consider garnishing your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with mulled wine or a warm cup of spiced cocoa. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere as you share this delightful dessert with your family and friends!