Name: Cozy Up with Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 205 min
Ingredients: 1 Pie Crust (Store-bought or homemade); 4 Eggs (Fresh, room-temperature eggs); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 2 cups Whole Milk; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1 tablespoon Pure Vanilla Extract (Substituting with vanilla bean can elevate the flavor); 1 pinch Salt (A subtle balance to maximize flavors); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Use sparingly); 1 teaspoon Orange Zest (For a refreshing citrus note)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through the air, I realized I had stumbled upon the perfect recipe for the holiday season: Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie. This delightful dessert not only captures the warmth and comfort of Christmas but is also surprisingly easy to make, tailored for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Picture a silky custard cradled in a flaky pie crust, each bite promising a blend of nostalgic flavors that hark back to cherished family gatherings. With its flexible variations and creative twists, this pie is destined to steal the show at your festive celebrations. Ready to bring a touch of homemade magic to your Christmas Eve? Let’s dive into this delicious creation together!

Why is this pie the perfect holiday dessert?

Comforting Festivity: This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie envelops your senses in the spirit of the season. Versatile Options: You can play with flavors by adding nutmeg, orange zest, or even a splash of bourbon for an adult twist. Easy-to-Make: With just a few simple steps, this pie requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a cozy night in, its silky texture and warm spices let everyone feel at home. Speaking of delightful desserts, don’t miss our Lemon Raspberry Cookies for another festive treat!

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this festive treat!

For the Pie Crust

Pie Crust – You can use either store-bought for convenience or make a homemade crust for a personal touch.

For the Custard Filling

Eggs – Fresh, room-temperature eggs are essential for achieving the best texture in your custard.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the custard without overshadowing the cinnamon and vanilla.
Whole Milk – Balances the custard’s creaminess while keeping it light.
Heavy Cream – Adds a delightful richness to your custard; a mix of milk and cream ensures perfect texture.
Ground Cinnamon – This main spice brings the holiday flavor alive; for a deeper infusion, consider using a cinnamon stick.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the richness and sweetness; substituting with vanilla bean can elevate the flavor even more.
Pinch of Salt – A subtle balance to maximize the flavors of your custard.

Optional Flavor Enhancements

Ground Nutmeg – Adds an extra layer of warmth, but use it sparingly for best results.
Orange Zest – Brightens the custard with a refreshing citrus note for a holiday twist.

Each ingredient plays a role in crafting your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie, ensuring that your dessert shines during the festivities!

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

Step 1: Pre-bake the Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. To keep the crust from bubbling, line it with parchment paper and fill with pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes, then carefully remove the weights and parchment, baking for an additional 5 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden. Let it cool on a wire rack.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Base
In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and pure vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring gently, until the mixture is steaming but not boiling—about 5 minutes. The warm, fragrant blend will set the stage for your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie, ensuring each bite is infused with comforting spices.

Step 3: Whisk Eggs & Sugar
While the milk and cream are warming, crack fresh eggs into a mixing bowl and add granulated sugar and a pinch of salt. Using a whisk, beat the mixture until it becomes pale and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. This whisking step is crucial for achieving a light and airy custard in your festive pie.

Step 4: Temper & Combine
Once your milk and cream mixture is hot, slowly pour it into the egg and sugar mixture while continuously whisking. This tempering process prevents the eggs from curdling. After thoroughly mixing, pour the custard mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl to ensure a smooth and velvety texture for your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

Step 5: Fill & Bake
Carefully pour the prepared custard into your pre-baked pie crust. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes. The pie is done when the edges are set, and the center gently jiggles—a luscious sign of a perfectly creamy custard. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking, which could alter its smooth texture.

Step 6: Cool & Chill
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then transfer it to the refrigerator, letting it chill for at least 2 hours before serving. This cooling period helps the custard firm up and enhances the flavors, making each bite of your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie delightful and refreshing.

Expert Tips for Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients like fresh eggs and pure vanilla extract to elevate the flavor of your custard pie.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your pie; it should jiggle slightly in the center when done to ensure a creamy texture for your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.
Proper Tempering: Gradually add the hot milk mixture to the eggs while whisking to prevent curdling, creating a smooth custard.
Blind-Bake Wisely: Make sure to blind-bake your crust fully to prevent it from becoming soggy and losing that delightful flaky texture.
Chill Before Serving: Don’t skip the cooling step! Chilling your pie for at least 2 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the custard sets properly.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Refrigeration: Store your pie covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavors.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen pie to the fridge overnight to thaw gently. Serve chilled for the best experience.

Reheating: If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds on low power, allowing the custard to soften slightly while preserving its delightful flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance—simply pre-bake it, let it cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate to maintain freshness. The custard filling can also be mixed and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; just keep it covered to prevent any surface skin. When you’re ready to bake, pour the custard into the prepared crust and pop it in the oven. This no-fuss method saves you precious time during the holiday rush without compromising the deliciousness of your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie!

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Variations

Feel free to personalize this delightful pie to suit your taste and make it even more special!

Graham Cracker Crust: Swap the pastry crust for a graham cracker crust for a sweet twist that adds a crunchy texture.
Gingerbread Crust: For a festive flair, use a gingerbread crust, bringing a warm, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the custard.
Nutmeg Addition: Sprinkle a touch of ground nutmeg into the custard for an extra layer of warmth and holiday spirit.
Mini Pies: Bake individual mini custard pies in muffin tins for charming portions that are perfect for gatherings or gift-giving.
Citrus Zest: Add a hint of orange or lemon zest to brighten the custard’s flavor profile and give it a refreshing kick.
Boozy Custard: For an adult twist, mix in a tablespoon of dark rum, bourbon, or brandy for a festive touch that adults will love.
Spice It Up: Experiment with other spices like cardamom or clove to create your unique flavor blend that personalizes this holiday classic.
Pie Topping: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an irresistible finishing touch.

These variations will make your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie truly one-of-a-kind! If you’re in the mood for more festive goodies, consider pairing it with our Blueberry Cookie or trying out Smores Hand Pies for a joyful holiday assortment!

What to Serve with Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

As the aroma of your Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie fills your home, it’s time to think about delicious accompaniments that will elevate your holiday gathering.

Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a luscious contrast to the silky custard, enhancing each bite.
Spiced Hot Cocoa: Warm up your festivities with a cup of spiced hot cocoa, infusing chocolatey goodness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon flavors.
Fruit Compote: A vibrant fruit compote, like blueberry or raspberry, provides a refreshing tang that balances the richness, creating a harmonious dessert experience.
Toasted Almonds: Crunchy, toasted almonds sprinkle an inviting texture on your plated pie slice while adding a nutty flavor that enhances the creamy custard.
Mulled Wine: This warm beverage, infused with spices and citrus, brings a cozy warmth to your table, echoing the festive spices in the pie.
Gingerbread Cookies: These sweet treats offer a delightful holiday crunch and flavor, pairing seamlessly for a nostalgic touch during your festive meal.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream melts slightly over the warm pie, creating a delightful interplay of temperatures and textures in each delicious bite.

By mixing and matching these serving ideas, your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie transforms into the star of a lovingly crafted holiday spread.

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best eggs for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results in your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie, select fresh, room-temperature eggs. Look for eggs without any cracks and choose ones that have a clean, unblemished shell. Fresh eggs create a better texture in your custard, giving it that light and airy quality we all adore!

What is the best way to store leftover pie?
To keep your pie fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This helps retain its creamy texture and flavorful essence. If you’ll be enjoying it later, consider freezing it, too!

Can I freeze the custard pie?
Very! You can freeze your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie! Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and pop it in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer the pie to the fridge overnight to thaw slowly. This will help preserve its luscious flavor and texture.

What should I do if my custard didn’t set properly?
If your custard didn’t set as expected, don’t worry! It could be due to several factors. First, make sure you’ve baked the pie long enough; the edges should be set while the center has a slight jiggle. If it’s still soft after baking, you can return it to the oven at a lower temperature, checking every 5 minutes until set. Always remember to allow it to cool and chill fully before serving, as this helps it firm up beautifully.

Can I make this pie nut-free or dairy-free?
Definitely! For a nut-free version, simply ensure your pie crust is made with safe ingredients, as some pre-made options may contain nuts. To make it dairy-free, use plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk along with a dairy-free substitute for heavy cream. The flavor will shift slightly, but it will still be delicious!

Is this pie safe for pets or people with allergies?
While the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is delightful for us humans, it’s important to keep it safe for our furry friends! The ingredients such as milk and eggs can pose issues for pets, especially if they have lactose intolerance. Always check for any allergens like eggs or dairy before sharing this festive treat with others.