Name: Cozy Up with Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: 1 batch Pie Crust (Homemade butter crust or store-bought); 3 large Eggs (Fresh, room-temperature); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 cup Whole Milk (Can substitute with lower-fat milk); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Do not skip this!); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Could steep a cinnamon stick); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla enhances flavor); 1 pinch Salt (Brightens flavors); 1 teaspoon Optional Add-ins (Ground nutmeg or orange zest)

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Amidst the glow of twinkling lights and the joyous sounds of the season, there’s a special comfort in the smell of freshly baked treats wafting through the house. This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is my go-to dessert for holiday gatherings, effortlessly combining a silky, creamy texture with the warm embrace of cinnamon and sweet vanilla. Not only is this holiday dessert simple enough for even the novice baker, but its stunning appearance also makes it a showstopper on any festive table. Whether you’re hosting family or bringing a dish to share, this pie promises to envelop everyone in a cozy, nostalgic spirit. Are you ready to create a centerpiece that will have your loved ones gathering around for just one more slice?

Why is this pie a holiday must-have?

Irresistible Aroma: The moment this pie bakes, your kitchen is transformed into a cozy holiday haven, filled with the enticing scent of cinnamon and vanilla.

Effortless Elegance: Even if you’re a beginner, this recipe’s simple steps ensure a show-stopping dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, this creamy custard pie offers a nostalgic taste that will have everyone reminiscing about holiday traditions.

Versatile Recipe: Feel free to customize by adding a hint of nutmeg or swapping the crust for a graham cracker base.

Make-Ahead Option: Prepare this pie in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to three days, giving you a stress-free holiday celebration.

Bring on the festive cheer and grab an extra slice of this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie, and for more delightful desserts, try my Lemon Raspberry Cookies or the ever-popular Blueberry Cookie.

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Ingredients

For the Crust
• Pie Crust – Use a homemade butter crust for a rich flavor or opt for a store-bought one for quick convenience.

For the Custard Filling
• Eggs – Fresh, room-temperature eggs create a creamier texture that’s essential for the custard.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides balanced sweetness that complements the warm spices beautifully.
• Whole Milk – Lightens and adds creaminess; consider substituting with lower-fat milk if desired.
• Heavy Cream – Contributes essential richness to the custard’s texture; don’t skip this!
• Ground Cinnamon – The star spice that gives this pie its warm holiday flavor; you can steep a cinnamon stick for even more depth.
• Vanilla Extract – Pure vanilla enhances the custard; for an upscale touch, use a vanilla bean.
• Pinch of Salt – A tiny bit brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Optional Add-ins – Ground nutmeg or orange zest are perfect for adding an extra festive note.

Embrace the warmth and nostalgia that the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie brings to your holiday gatherings, and get ready for smiles and satisfied sighs!

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

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Fit your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it against the sides and bottom. Line it with parchment paper, then fill with pie weights or dried beans. Blind-bake for 15 minutes, then carefully remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the crust is golden and fragrant.

Step 2: Infuse Cream
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine whole milk, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir gently, heating until steamy but not boiling—this should take about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you start to see tiny bubbles around the edges, and the delightful scents of cinnamon and vanilla fill the kitchen.

Step 3: Whisk Eggs
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the room-temperature eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and slightly frothy. This step takes about 3-4 minutes. Achieving this lightness is key to ensuring a smooth custard filling for your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

Step 4: Temper Eggs
Slowly pour the heated milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. This gradual incorporation is crucial for preventing the eggs from curdling. Pour it in a steady stream for about 30 seconds, ensuring all ingredients blend seamlessly. If desired, strain the custard mixture through a fine mesh sieve into another bowl to achieve an ultra-smooth texture.

Step 5: Bake Pie
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Carefully pour the custard mixture into your pre-baked crust. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle—this indicates a perfect creamy texture. Keep an eye on it, as overbaking can lead to cracks.

Step 6: Cool and Chill
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to allow it to fully set and enhance the flavors. The chilling time is essential for the custard to achieve its signature smoothness for your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

Expert Tips for Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

• Water Bath Bake: For an ultra-creamy texture and to avoid cracks, place your pie dish in a larger baking dish filled with hot water during baking.

• Right Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your pie; it should be removed from the oven when the center still jiggles slightly. It will firm up as it cools.

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh, high-quality eggs and pure vanilla extract for the best flavor in your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

• Customize Flavors: Experiment with optional add-ins like ground nutmeg or orange zest to personalize the flavors and make your pie truly special.

• Cooling Essentials: Allow it to cool at room temperature before chilling in the fridge; this helps set the custard and intensifies the flavors.

Make Ahead Options

This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the entire pie up to 3 days in advance; simply bake it and let it cool before refrigerating. To maintain the silky custard texture, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you’re planning to serve it later, just chill and slice before serving. For the best flavors, make sure to allow the custard to set in the refrigerator at least 2 hours before slicing. This way, you can enjoy a stunning dessert without the last-minute stress, making your holiday gathering just a little bit sweeter!

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your personal touch on this delightful pie with these fun and scrumptious variations!

Graham Cracker Crust: Swap out the pastry crust for a buttery graham cracker one for a refreshing twist. This will add a sweet crunch that compliments the creamy custard beautifully.
Gingerbread Cookie Crust: Use crushed gingerbread cookies in place of the traditional crust for an extra festive flavor. This variation brings a lovely spice that sings of holiday cheer.
Nutmeg Boost: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg to your custard for a warm, spicy note that pairs perfectly with cinnamon. You might even find your taste buds dancing in excitement!
Cardamom Infusion: Incorporate a dash of cardamom for an elegant depth and an exotic twist. This fragrant spice will elevate your pie with a unique flavor that’s sure to impress.
Chocolate Swirl: After pouring the custard into the crust, swirl in some melted dark chocolate for a rich, decadent variation. It creates a delightful contrast between flavors that’s sure to please chocolate lovers.
Rum-flavored Custard: For an adults-only option, mix in a tablespoon of dark rum, bourbon, or brandy into the custard before baking. This choice adds warmth and sophistication that feels festive.
Zesty Orange Variation: Add a teaspoon of fresh orange zest to the custard for a bright citrus note that awakens the flavors of holiday spices. This fresh twist gives a vibrancy to each bite!
Fruit Topping: After chilling, serve your pie topped with a medley of seasonal fruits such as pomegranate seeds or fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor. It adds a refreshing finish that’s irresistible!

As you explore these variations, remember to make this recipe truly your own and enjoy the joyful process of creating something special. And for more delightful treats, don’t miss trying out my S’mores Hand Pies for a fun dessert delight!

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

Fridge: Store the pie in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: To enjoy this delightful holiday dessert later, freeze tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 1 month.

Thawing: When you’re ready to serve, thaw the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie in the fridge overnight for the best texture.

Reheating: For a warm treat, gently reheat slices in the microwave, using low power to avoid overheating the custard.

What to Serve with Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

The festive cheer isn’t complete without delightful accompaniments that elevate your dessert experience and create a cozy gathering.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luscious topping, balancing the pie’s creamy texture with a light, airy feel.
Mulled Wine: The warm spices in mulled wine beautifully complement the cinnamon and vanilla flavors, creating a harmonious holiday drink pairing.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce introduces a decadent twist, making each slice even more indulgent and visually appealing.
Gingerbread Cookies: These spiced cookies are perfect for dunking, adding a delightful crunch and contrasting texture to the smooth custard pie.
Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries provides a refreshing burst of tartness that brightens the dish and enhances the overall presentation.
Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Serving warm beverages can create a comforting atmosphere, wrapping up your festive meal in warmth and sweetness.

Embrace the joy of the season, and let these pairings turn your Christmas Eve gathering into a memorable celebration!

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of milk is best for this pie?
I recommend using whole milk for a creamy texture, but you can substitute with lower-fat milk if needed. Just keep in mind that the richness might be slightly reduced.

How can I tell if my eggs are fresh?
To check if your eggs are still good, place them in a bowl of water. Fresh eggs will sink and lay flat on the bottom, while older eggs will stand upright or float to the top. Always choose the freshest eggs for your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie to ensure the best flavor!

How should I store leftover pie?
Store your pie in the fridge by covering it tightly with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. It will maintain its freshness for up to 3 days. It’s a delightful treat you won’t want to waste!

Can I freeze the custard pie?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.

What if my custard pie cracks while baking?
Cracks may occur if the pie is overbaked or baked at too high a temperature. To prevent this, consider using a water bath, which helps regulate the baking temperature. Always keep an eye on the pie; it should be removed from the oven when the center is still slightly jiggly as it will continue to set while cooling.

Can pets eat this pie?
It’s best to avoid sharing this pie with pets, especially due to the sugar content and potential allergens such as eggs and dairy. Always consult your veterinarian for safe treats for your furry friends.

These FAQs should help you navigate the delightful experience of making and enjoying your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie!