Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie 🎄🥧

Nothing says “cozy Christmas Eve” quite like the warm, comforting flavors of Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie. This classic dessert combines a silky, creamy custard filling infused with fragrant cinnamon and vanilla, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for sharing with loved ones around the holiday table, this pie is both simple and luxurious. ✨

Why You’ll Love This Recipe 🎅

✅ Easy to Make – Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. 👩‍🍳
✅ Festive Flavors – The cozy combination of cinnamon and vanilla is holiday perfection. 🎄
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – Ideal for prepping ahead of Christmas Eve celebrations. 🎉
✅ Creamy & Dreamy – Silky smooth custard that melts in your mouth. 🤤

Ingredients 🛒

For the Pie Crust (or use store-bought):

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed 🧈
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water 💧

(Shortcut: Use a pre-made 9-inch pie crust to save time!)

For the Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
• 1 cup whole milk 🥛
• 4 large eggs, room temperature 🥚
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar 🍚
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 🍦
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🌿
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional for added warmth) ✨
• Pinch of salt 🧂

For Topping:

• Ground cinnamon for dusting 🌟
• Whipped cream (optional) 🧁
• Powdered sugar for a light snowfall effect ❄️

Instructions 👨‍🍳

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust 🥧

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter (or your hands) to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Do not overwork the dough!
3. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
4. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Gently press it into the dish, trim any excess, and crimp the edges.
5. Pre-bake the crust: Prick the bottom with a fork, line with parchment paper, and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.

(Skip this step if using a store-bought pie crust.)

Step 2: Make the Custard Filling 🍮

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream and milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. 🥄
3. Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Pie 🌟

1. Carefully pour the custard filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Use a fine-mesh strainer to catch any lumps for a perfectly smooth filling.
2. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
3. Remove from the oven and let the pie cool completely at room temperature. For best results, chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours to allow the custard to firm up.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve 🎄

1. Before serving, dust the top of the pie with a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a bit of powdered sugar for a festive snowy effect. ❄️
2. Add a dollop of whipped cream to each slice for an extra creamy touch. 🧁

Serving Suggestions 🎅

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