Slice of Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie served on a festive plate

Cozy Up with Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

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Cozy Up with Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

The holidays are the perfect time to indulge in warm, comforting desserts, and this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is a festive treat that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. With its creamy custard base infused with cinnamon and vanilla, this pie is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a nostalgic reminder of holiday gatherings. As someone who has spent years perfecting my pastry skills, I can assure you, this pie will be the star of your holiday table.

Why Make This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and vanilla creates a warm, inviting flavor profile that invokes holiday cheer.

  2. Rich Texture: The smooth custard filling pairs beautifully with a flaky pie crust, making every bite a delightful experience.

  3. Crowd-Pleaser: This pie is perfect for gatherings, guaranteed to impress family and friends with its elegance and flavor.

  4. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this impressive dessert.

  5. Personal Connection: I love making this pie every Christmas Eve. It brings back memories of baking with my grandmother, who taught me the magic of homemade treats.

Recipe Overview

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Servings: 8
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Cooking Method: Baking

This pie is prepared by making a custard filling and baking it in a pre-prepared pie crust, requiring basic baking skills and equipment.

My Experience Making This Recipe

Testing this recipe was a wonderful experience that brought back memories of holiday baking with loved ones. I struggled initially with getting the custard to set perfectly, but after tweaking my oven temperature and carefully monitoring baking time, I achieved a beautifully creamy filling that won’t disappoint. Remember, patience is key when waiting for the pie to cool!

How to Make Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

To create this comforting dessert, start with a store-bought or homemade pie crust. The secret lies in the custard itself, made by whisking together eggs, sugar, milk, cream, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. You’ll gently combine these ingredients until smooth and pour them into the prepared crust. Bake until the filling is just set, and let it cool to allow the flavors to develop. Expect a sweet, aromatic pie that fills your home with warmth.

Expert Tips for Success

  1. Choose Quality Ingredients: Use pure vanilla extract and fresh eggs for the best flavor. The quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the final dessert.

  2. Watch the Oven Temperature: Baking at 350°F (175°C) is ideal for custards. Higher temperatures can cause the custard to curdle.

  3. Test for Doneness: Gently jiggle the pie; it should slightly quiver in the center. It will continue to set as it cools.

  4. Let It Cool Fully: Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before slicing. This helps the custard firm up.

  5. Use a Pie Weights: If you’re using a homemade pie crust, par-baking it with weights will prevent a soggy bottom.

How to Serve Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

  1. Chilled with Whipped Cream: Serve slices of pie chilled, topped with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy contrast.

  2. Sprinkle of Cinnamon: Adding a dusting of ground cinnamon on top enhances the festive aesthetic.

  3. Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Pears or berries make excellent accompaniments, adding natural sweetness and color to your presentation.

  4. Paired with Coffee or Spiced Tea: The warmth of the spices in the pie pairs beautifully with a hot beverage, making it the perfect end to a holiday meal.

Storage and Reheating Guide

Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the entire pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.

Recipe Variations

  1. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pie crust for a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor.

  2. Dairy-Free Custard: Substitute almond or coconut milk and a dairy-free cream alternative for a delicious dairy-free custard.

  3. Additional Flavors: Stir in a few tablespoons of bourbon or rum into the custard for an adult twist.

  4. Spice Variations: Experiment with nutmeg or allspice alongside cinnamon for a deeper flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights

This custard pie provides a rich source of protein from eggs and is a delightful source of calcium from milk and cream. It’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its sugar content. Always consider allergies; this recipe contains eggs, dairy, and gluten.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  1. Custard Not Setting: If your custard is too runny, you may have undercooked it. Ensure the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid before removing it from the oven.

  2. Soggy Crust: A soggy pie crust can occur if it isn’t baked long enough prior to adding the filling. Blind bake the crust to avoid this issue.

  3. Crust Burning: If you notice the crust browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil during baking to protect them.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! The pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before serving.

2. How do I know when the custard is done?
The custard should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.

3. Can I substitute the milk?
Yes, feel free to use any milk or cream substitute of your choice, such as almond milk or oat milk for a lighter option.

4. What should I do if I have leftover filling?
You can pour any remaining custard mixture into ramekins and bake them for individual custard cups—simply adjust the baking time to around 20-25 minutes.

This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is sure to warm hearts and create cherished holiday memories. Happy baking!

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Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

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  • Author: jurgentukur
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

A festive dessert featuring a creamy custard base infused with cinnamon and vanilla, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 pre-prepared pie crust
  • 4 large eggs
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, cream, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
  3. Pour the custard mixture into the prepared pie crust.
  4. Bake for 45 minutes or until the filling is slightly jiggly in the center.
  5. Allow to cool completely at room temperature before slicing.

Notes

Let the pie cool fully to ensure the custard firms up properly. Use a pie weight if using a homemade crust to prevent sogginess.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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