As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with the warm scent of cinnamon and vanilla, invoking memories of cozy family gatherings around the kitchen table. It was Christmas Eve last year when I whipped up this Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie for the first time, and the delighted faces of my loved ones were all the encouragement I needed to make it a tradition. With its silky custard nestled in a flaky crust, each bite is a little piece of comfort that transforms any occasion into something extraordinary.
This delightful pie is not just a dessert; it’s a hug in a slice. The combination of creamy milk, rich heavy cream, and a hint of ground cinnamon creates a luscious filling that feels like a warm embrace. Best of all, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to tackle, even on the busiest nights filled with holiday festivities. With just a handful of ingredients, you can craft a stunning centerpiece for your dessert table that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the details and create a new holiday favorite together!
Why You'll Love This Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy the festive season without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The flavor combination of creamy custard with warm cinnamon and vanilla creates an irresistible dessert everyone will adore.
- Its versatility means you can enjoy this pie not just on Christmas Eve but for any special occasion throughout the year.
- Plus, the gorgeous appearance of the pie will make it a stunning centerpiece on your dessert table, captivating your guests from the moment they arrive.
Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
• Pre-made pie crust – saves time and ensures a flaky foundation for your custard.
For the Filling
• Whole milk – provides the creamy base that makes the custard rich and luscious.
• Heavy cream – enhances the creaminess for that delightful mouthfeel.
• Large eggs – essential for setting the custard and giving it structure.
• Granulated sugar – balances the flavors and adds sweetness to the creamy mix.
• Vanilla extract – adds depth and warmth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Ground cinnamon – infuses the filling with a spicy, festive aroma perfect for holiday gatherings.
• Salt – a pinch enhances sweetness and brings out the flavors of the custard.
• Cornstarch – thickens the custard for a velvety texture that holds together beautifully in each slice.
This Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie is sure to become a beloved tradition in your holiday celebrations!
How to Make Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie
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Preheat: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your pre-made pie crust in a pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Don’t forget to poke a few holes in the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling! Bake for about 10 minutes, until lightly golden brown. Remove and set aside to cool.
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Heat Milk & Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through but not boiling. Once it’s hot, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
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Whisk Together: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creates the flavorful base of your custard.
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Combine Mixtures: Slowly pour the warm milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This is crucial for preventing the eggs from scrambling. Whisk until everything is well combined and creamy.
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Pour Into Crust: Carefully pour the custard mixture into your pre-baked pie crust. Give it a gentle shake to ensure the custard settles evenly and any bubbles rise to the top.
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Bake the Pie: Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The custard should be set but may still have a slight jiggle in the center. Look for a light golden color on top and a fragrant aroma in your kitchen!
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Cool Time: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. This cooling time helps the custard set further for perfect slices.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra festive touch before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Prepare your Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie ahead of time to save valuable moments during the busy holiday season! You can make the custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance—just whisk together the eggs, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. To ensure perfect texture, be sure to allow the mixture to come to room temperature before folding in the heated milk and cream right before pouring it into the crust. Additionally, the pie can be baked up to 3 days ahead; simply cover it loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, let the pie cool for two hours to set properly. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy a delicious dessert without the last-minute rush!
Storage Tips for Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie
Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool completely before storing it. It can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours without concern, but should be refrigerated afterward.
Fridge: Store your custard pie in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the crust from getting soggy.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze slices of the Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To enjoy a slice, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its creamy texture.
What to Serve with Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie?
As you gather with family and friends for festive celebrations, let’s enhance your pie experience with delightful pairings that complement its rich flavors.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture, enhancing the pie’s creamy profile while offering a sweet contrast.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The warm, comforting notes of spiced apple cider create a cozy vibe that perfectly echoes the cinnamon in the pie.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or tart raspberries bring a burst of freshness and acidity, beautifully balancing the creamy sweetness of the custard pie.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A rich, dark chocolate drizzle provides a decadent touch, making each slice feel extra indulgent and luxurious.
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Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti enhances the experience with its satisfying texture, delivering a perfect foil to the silky custard.
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of robust coffee or espresso pairs beautifully, highlighting the warm spices while providing a delightful contrast to the sweet pie.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream offers a nostalgic touch, each scoop melting blissfully into the warm custard for an irresistible dessert experience.
Cinnamon Vanilla Variations
Feel free to add your own twist to this charming dessert, making each slice uniquely yours!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or coconut milk and use a dairy-free heavy cream alternative for a vegan-friendly option. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying!
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Nutmeg Boost: Swap out ground cinnamon for freshly grated nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist that’s equally comforting during the holidays. This will fill your kitchen with a lovely, festive fragrance!
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Chocolate Swirl: Fold in chocolate chips or a chocolate syrup drizzle before baking for a decadent chocolaty flavor that elevates the custard to a whole new level. Just imagine that creamy chocolate mingling with the cinnamon vanilla!
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Pumpkin Spice: Add 1 cup of pure pumpkin puree and replace half the sugar with brown sugar for a seasonal pumpkin custard pie. This variation sings of autumn flavors, perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings!
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Maple Sweetness: Substitute granulated sugar with pure maple syrup, which will lend a delightful, natural sweetness to your custard. The maple undertones complement the vanilla beautifully!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the custard mixture for a surprising dash of heat that pairs well with the sweetness of the dessert. This unexpected addition creates an interesting flavor balance!
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Berry Bliss: Top your custard with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a tart contrast that brightens up each bite. Their vibrant colors and fresh taste will make your pie even more inviting!
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Coconut Cream: Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical twist that brings a hint of the exotic to the classic flavors of cinnamon and vanilla. It’ll make you feel like you’re enjoying a dessert on the beach!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making the Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie, ensure your milk and cream mixture is heated just below boiling to avoid curdling the eggs when combined.
- Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly until smooth; this prevents any lumps in your custard.
- A gentle shake after pouring the custard into the crust allows for even settling and eliminates air bubbles.
- Keep an eye on the baking time and check for the slight jiggle in the center to ensure perfect doneness without overbaking.
Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe FAQs
How should I choose the perfect milk and cream for my custard pie?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, opt for whole milk and heavy cream. They create a creamy base that enhances the custard’s texture. Look for fresh products with no expiration dates approaching. Avoid low-fat or skim options, as they can result in a less luxurious pie.
How do I store leftover Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie?
To keep your custard pie fresh, let it cool completely before storage. In the fridge, it will last up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container or covered tightly with plastic wrap. This prevents the crust from getting soggy while keeping flavors intact. Enjoy those sweet leftovers!
Can I freeze slices of this custard pie?
Very much so! To freeze, first allow the pie to cool completely. Cut it into slices and wrap each slice tightly with plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and refresh in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
What if my custard is too runny after baking?
If you find that your custard pie didn’t set properly, don’t fret! The most likely cause is that it was underbaked. Make sure to bake it until the center is slightly jiggly and the top has a light golden hue. Next time, ensure you’re following the baking time closely and test it with a knife; it should come out clean when inserted. If it still doesn’t set, you can serve it as a delightful custard in cups!
Is this pie suitable for anyone with dietary allergies?
The Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie contains dairy and eggs, which are common allergens. If you’re catering to someone with lactose intolerance, consider using lactose-free milk and cream, and try an egg substitute like a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) for a similar texture. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of this festive treat!
Equipment
- oven
- pie dish
- Medium saucepan
- mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Fork
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 pre-made pie crust saves time and ensures a flaky foundation for your custard
For the Filling
- 2 cups whole milk provides the creamy base that makes the custard rich and luscious
- 1 cup heavy cream enhances the creaminess for that delightful mouthfeel
- 4 large eggs essential for setting the custard and giving it structure
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar balances the flavors and adds sweetness to the creamy mix
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract adds depth and warmth, enhancing the overall flavor profile
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon infuses the filling with a spicy, festive aroma
- 1/4 teaspoon salt enhances sweetness and brings out the flavors of the custard
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch thickens the custard for a velvety texture
Instructions
How to Make Creamy Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your pre-made pie crust in a pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Poke a few holes in the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling and bake for about 10 minutes, until lightly golden brown. Remove and set aside to cool.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until heated through but not boiling. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
- Slowly pour the warm milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Carefully pour the custard mixture into your pre-baked pie crust, giving it a gentle shake to ensure even settling.
- Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra festive touch before serving.
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