As I walked through the bustling holiday market, the enticing scent of cinnamon and vanilla wrapped around me like a warm hug. Inspired by these familiar aromas, I knew I had to create a Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie for my festive gathering. This creamy delight not only brings together beloved holiday flavors but also offers an elegant touch without the fuss, making it perfect for both experienced bakers and novice chefs. With minimal prep time and the ability to easily adapt ingredients, this traditional dessert will surely become a cherished addition to your seasonal celebrations. So, why not treat your loved ones to a slice of nostalgia this year? Trust me, they will be asking for seconds! Why is this pie a holiday favorite? Nostalgic Flavors: This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie brings together the warm aromas of the season, making it a true comfort dessert. Effortless Elegance: Perfect for gatherings, it adds a touch of sophistication without demanding extensive baking skills. Versatile Recipe: With options for customizing flavors and crusts, every family can make it their own, just like they do with cherished traditions. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it the day before your celebration and store it easily, ensuring more time spent with loved ones and less in the kitchen. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: No one can resist the silky custard mingled with spices, making it an instant favorite at any holiday table. If you’re looking for more delicious inspiration, check out my delightful Key Lime Pie or my easy-to-make Broccoli Chicken Penne. Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Ingredients For the Pie Crust • Pie Crust – Choose a homemade buttery crust for that rich flavor or a graham cracker crust for a touch of sweetness. For the Custard Filling • Eggs – Fresh, room-temperature eggs provide the best structure and richness to your custard. • Granulated Sugar – Sweetens your pie while balancing the warm spices without overwhelming them. • Whole Milk – Contributes to a light custard; can be substituted with low-fat milk if desired. • Heavy Cream – Adds a velvety richness; can be replaced with extra milk for a lighter option. • Ground Cinnamon – Essential for that warm, festive flavor; a cinnamon stick can infuse even more aroma. • Vanilla Extract – Use pure extract or scrape a vanilla bean for unsurpassed depth of flavor. • Pinch of Salt – Enhances the sweetness by balancing the flavors beautifully. Optional Add-ins • Ground Nutmeg – Offers additional warmth and a festive touch to your custard. • Orange Zest – Brightens up the mixture with a zesty twist, adding another layer of holiday cheer. This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that will surely warm your heart during the holiday season! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie – Creamy Step 1: Pre-bake the Crust Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your pie crust and gently fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. To prevent bubbling, line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then carefully remove the weights and parchment, baking for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Allow to cool slightly while preparing the custard. Step 2: Prepare Custard Base In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk and heavy cream with ground cinnamon and vanilla extract. Heat over medium until steaming, making sure not to let it boil. If you’re using a whole cinnamon stick or vanilla bean, let them steep for about 10 minutes for extra flavor before removing them. This aromatic mixture is the heart of your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie. Step 3: Whisk Eggs and Sugar In a mixing bowl, add fresh room-temperature eggs, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk together vigorously until the mixture becomes pale and smooth, around 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for creating that rich custard texture that will envelop your pie, so mix until fully combined and fluffy before moving on to the next step. Step 4: Temper and Combine Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg and sugar mixture, whisking continuously to temper the eggs and prevent curdling. Once combined, strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to ensure a silky-smooth texture. This step ensures the creamy filling of your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is free of lumps, providing a delightful mouthfeel. Step 5: Fill and Bake Reduce your oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Carefully pour the custard filling into the pre-baked pie crust, filling it almost to the top. Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when you shake the pan. It’s this gentle jiggle that indicates a perfectly creamy custard in your pie. Step 6: Cool and Chill After baking, allow the pie to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Once it’s set, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can resist the temptation! Chilling will help the custard firm up a bit more, making slicing easier and enhancing the rich flavors of your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie. Make Ahead Options This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy holiday festivities without last-minute stress. You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance and store it covered at room temperature to maintain its crispiness. The custard filling can also be made up to 24 hours ahead; simply whisk the custard, pour it into the pre-baked crust, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven, bake the pie as directed, and let it cool. With these make-ahead options, you’ll ensure every slice of your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is just as delicious as when freshly made, saving you valuable time to spend with loved ones. How to Store and Freeze Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Fridge: Store your pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the custard fresh and delicious while allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully. Freezer: If you want to prepare ahead of time, you can freeze your custard pie tightly wrapped. It will maintain its best quality for up to 2 months; simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving. Reheating: To serve, slice and enjoy chilled, or warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds for a cozy treat. Serving: Always let the pie cool completely before slicing to achieve clean edges and to savor the creamy custard that makes this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie so delightful. Expert Tips for the Best Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie • Use Room-Temperature Eggs: Start with fresh, room-temperature eggs for the best custard texture. Cold eggs can result in a less creamy filling. • Master the Tempering: Be sure to whisk continuously when adding the hot milk to the eggs to prevent scrambling. This is key to achieving a smooth custard base for your pie. • Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the pie; it should jiggle slightly in the center when you remove it from the oven. Overbaking can lead to a dry custard, so aim for that perfect creamy consistency. • Cool Before Slicing: Patience is key! Allow the pie to cool fully before slicing. This helps set the custard and ensures clean, beautiful slices of your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie. • Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to tweak the spices! A pinch of nutmeg or some orange zest can elevate your pie to new festive heights while still staying true to its classic essence. Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Variations Feel free to explore these delicious twists on the classic custard pie, making each bite as unique as your celebration. Graham Cracker Crust: Swap your traditional pie crust for a buttery graham cracker crust for a sweet crunch that perfectly complements the creamy custard. Additional Spices: Experiment by adding a pinch of ground nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for a surprising depth of flavor that dances with the cinnamon. Bourbon Infusion: Elevate your dessert with a splash of 1-2 tablespoons of dark rum or bourbon for a warm and festive kick that adults will love. Individual Tarts: Bake the custard in individual tart pans for charming, portioned desserts that are perfect for sharing and make a beautiful presentation at your holiday table. Coconut Cream Option: For a tropical twist, use coconut milk in place of heavy cream, bringing a delightful, creamy texture and a hint of island flavor to your festive pie. Vegan Substitute: Replace eggs with a mix of silken tofu and a touch of cornstarch for a plant-based version that maintains a rich texture and flavor. Chocolate Drizzle: Don’t hold back on indulgence! Add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top of each slice for a decadent chocolate-cinnamon pairing that takes this pie to a new level. Zesty Addition: Brighten your custard with a teaspoon of orange zest, enhancing the holiday vibe with a fresh and aromatic burst! If you’re seeking more delightful treats, consider pairing your custard pie with my Broccoli Chicken Penne or serving alongside a refreshing Key Lime Pie. Enjoy crafting your own unique masterpiece! What to Serve with Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Elevate your holiday dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the creamy richness of this festive treat. Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the silky custard, enhancing its sweetness beautifully. Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing burst of flavor, cutting through the richness while adding vibrant color to your plate. Spiced Coffee: A steaming cup of spiced coffee accentuates the warm cinnamon and vanilla notes, creating a cozy, comforting end to your meal. Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of melted chocolate over the pie brings an indulgent richness, creating a delightful flavor combination that chocolate lovers will adore. Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: For the ultimate seasonal drink, serve a rich, cinnamon-infused hot chocolate that mirrors the pie’s warm spices, inviting nostalgia with each sip. Shortbread Cookies: Buttery shortbread cookies alongside the pie provide a crunchy texture contrast, making each bite a deliciously layered experience full of holiday cheer. Mulled Wine: Offering a glass of mulled wine enhances the festive feel, pairing well with the spiced flavors in the pie for a warming holiday treat. Candied Nuts: Sweet and crunchy candied nuts on the side provide a delightful texture and contrast, amplifying the cozy celebration of flavors on your plate. Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe FAQs What type of eggs should I use for the best custard? Absolutely! Fresh, room-temperature eggs yield the best structure and richness for your custard pie. Cold eggs can hinder the creamy consistency, while room temperature ensures smooth incorporation with other ingredients. How should I store the pie after baking? To enjoy your custard pie at its best, store it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh and allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or foil to avoid absorbing other refrigerator odors! Can I freeze Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie? Yes, you can! If you hope to prepare your pie ahead of time, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will keep quality in the freezer for up to 2 months. To serve, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before savoring its creamy goodness! What should I do if my custard pie cracks? If you notice cracks in your custard pie, don’t worry! A common culprit is overbaking. For a perfect custard, keep an eye on the baking time—remove it when the center still jiggles slightly. If you find yourself in a pinch, you can always cover cracks with a generous dollop of whipped cream! Is this pie safe for people with egg allergies? Unfortunately, since eggs are a key ingredient for the custard texture, this recipe wouldn’t be suitable for those with egg allergies. However, there are egg substitutes like silken tofu or commercial egg replacers that might work for a custard-like texture, though results can vary. Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk in this recipe? Very! Low-fat milk can definitely be substituted for whole milk; however, keep in mind that it might affect the overall creaminess. If you prefer a lighter custard but still desire richness, simply adjust by adding a little extra heavy cream or a dash of butter. Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Delight A delicious Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie that is creamy and perfect for holiday celebrations. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 55 minutes minsCooling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 25 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pie Crust1 pie crust Pie Crust Homemade buttery or graham cracker crust.For the Custard Filling4 large Eggs Fresh, room-temperature.1 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens the pie.2 cups Whole Milk Can substitute with low-fat milk.1 cup Heavy Cream Can replace with extra milk for a lighter option.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Essential for flavor.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Use pure or scrape a vanilla bean.1 pinch Salt Enhances sweetness.Optional Add-ins1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg For extra warmth.1 tablespoon Orange Zest Adds a zesty twist. Equipment 9-inch pie dishmedium saucepanmixing bowlWhiskFine-mesh sieve Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with weights. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly.In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk and heavy cream with ground cinnamon and vanilla extract. Heat over medium until steaming, making sure not to boil. If using a whole cinnamon stick or vanilla bean, let steep for about 10 minutes.In a mixing bowl, whisk together fresh eggs, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until pale and smooth, around 2-3 minutes.Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Pour custard filling into the pre-baked pie crust and bake for 35-40 minutes, until edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 5gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesFor the best texture, start with room-temperature eggs and whisk continuously when adding hot milk to prevent curdling. Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing for clean edges. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
