Oh, let me tell you about the joy of making my Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie! This pie is not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate, bringing the delightful flavors of cinnamon and vanilla together in a creamy custard that just melts in your mouth. Every Christmas Eve, my family gathers around the kitchen, and this pie has become our special tradition. The smell of cinnamon wafting through the house is enough to make anyone feel festive! I love how the golden crust cradles the rich filling, creating a perfect slice of holiday magic. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why it’s a staple at our gatherings. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring a quiet moment alone, this pie is sure to make your holiday season a little sweeter!

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

How to Prepare the Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie

Now, let’s dive into making this creamy dream come true! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a pie that’ll wow everyone at your holiday gathering. Just remember to take your time and enjoy the process—baking should be fun!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly and perfectly.
2. Mix the base: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the whole milk, granulated sugar, cornstarch, salt, and ground cinnamon. This mixture is where the magic begins, so mix it well!
3. Cook it up: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. You want to keep an eye on it; this part takes about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens. It should be bubbly and smooth. Oops! Don’t let it stick to the bottom.
4. Temper the yolks: While that’s cooking, grab a bowl and whisk the egg yolks. Once your milk mixture is hot, slowly add a small amount of it to the yolks while whisking. This step is crucial to avoid scrambling your eggs!
5. Combine: Stir the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is well combined and thickened.
6. Add the finishing touches: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract and unsalted butter until fully melted and incorporated. This is when your kitchen will smell heavenly!
7. Fill the crust: Carefully pour the creamy custard into your pre-made pie crust. Don’t worry if it looks a bit wobbly; it will set up beautifully in the oven.
8. Bake it: Pop that pie into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set but still slightly jiggly—like a gentle wave!
9. Cool before serving: Once baked, let your pie cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before transferring it to the fridge. If you can, chill it for a few hours to perfect the texture. The longer it sits, the better it gets!

And there you have it! A luscious, creamy custard pie that’s just waiting to be topped with whipped cream. Enjoy the anticipation as you wait for it to cool—you’re in for a treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare, so you can spend more time enjoying the holiday festivities!
• Rich, creamy flavor that combines the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of vanilla—just divine!
• Perfect centerpiece for your holiday table that will impress your guests and family alike.
• Simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry make it easy to whip up on a whim.
• Versatile enough to enjoy any time of year, but especially festive for Christmas Eve celebrations.
• Every slice is a comforting hug, bringing back cherished memories of holiday gatherings.

Tips for Success

To make sure your Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie turns out absolutely perfect, here are some of my top tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh eggs and pure vanilla extract. They really enhance the flavor of the custard and make your pie taste homemade and special.
• Don’t rush the cooking: It’s tempting to turn up the heat to speed things up, but resist! Cooking over medium heat and stirring constantly is key to achieving that smooth, creamy texture without any lumps.
• Check for doneness: Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes. It should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center. If it’s too firm, it might have overcooked, so trust your instincts!
• Let it chill: Chilling the pie for a few hours after baking isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a game changer! The flavors meld together beautifully, and the texture becomes even creamier.
• Top it off: For an extra special touch, don’t forget to add a generous dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before serving. It not only looks gorgeous but also adds a delightful creaminess!
• Experiment with spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the custard mixture for a unique twist. It’s a great way to personalize the flavor and make it your own!

Follow these tips, and you’ll have a custard pie that not only tastes amazing but also brings joy to your holiday table. Happy baking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit, there are plenty of delightful variations you can try with your Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie! Here are some fun ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Spice it up: Instead of just cinnamon, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the custard mixture. These warm spices will add an extra layer of flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season!
• Chocolate lover’s delight: For a rich twist, fold in some melted chocolate into the custard before pouring it into the pie crust. You’ll end up with a decadent chocolate custard pie that’s hard to resist!
• Fruit infusion: Try adding a layer of fresh fruit, like sliced pears or apples, on the bottom of the pie crust before pouring in the custard. The fruit will add a lovely tartness that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
• Nutty topping: Before baking, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the custard. They’ll toast beautifully in the oven and add a delightful crunch to every slice.
• Caramel swirl: Drizzle some caramel sauce into the custard before baking, and gently swirl it with a knife for a stunning marbled effect. It not only looks gorgeous but also adds a sweet, buttery flavor!
• Holiday cheer: For a festive touch, add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard mixture—just a tablespoon or two will do! It’ll elevate the flavor and bring a bit of warmth to your pie.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on your taste preferences! Every variation is a chance to make this pie uniquely yours while still keeping that creamy, custardy goodness that we all love. Happy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve enjoyed your Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie, you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store it properly and keep that wonderful flavor and creamy texture intact.

First things first: let the pie cool completely at room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the crust soggy. Once it’s cooled, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or if you have it, pop it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Now, if you want to enjoy this creamy goodness later, you can also freeze it! Just slice the pie into individual portions, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply transfer a slice to the fridge to thaw overnight or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. No need to reheat it; it’s delightful served chilled!

However, if you prefer it warm, you can gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it—nobody wants a rubbery custard! Enjoy your pie, whether it’s freshly baked or a sweet leftover treat!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional breakdown for each slice of your delightful Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, so this is just an estimate:

• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

These numbers give you a sense of the creamy goodness you’re indulging in, but remember to enjoy this treat in moderation as part of your festive celebrations!

FAQs

Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of a pre-made one?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade pie crust recipe, feel free to use it. Just make sure to pre-bake it for about 10 minutes before adding the custard filling to ensure it stays nice and crispy!

Can I make this custard pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This pie actually tastes even better after a day in the fridge, allowing all those lovely flavors to meld together. Just be sure to cover it well to keep it fresh.

What should I do if my custard doesn’t thicken?
If your custard isn’t thickening as you cook it, don’t panic! Just keep stirring and give it a little more time on the heat. If it’s still not thickening, it might need a bit more cornstarch—try mixing an extra tablespoon with a little milk and adding it to the mixture while cooking.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?
You’ll know your pie is done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle to it. It will firm up as it cools, so don’t worry if it’s a bit wobbly when you take it out of the oven!

Can I add other flavors to the custard?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors. You can add a splash of almond extract or even a hint of citrus zest for a fun twist. Just remember to balance the flavors so they complement the cinnamon and vanilla!

Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie Delight

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A rich and creamy custard pie flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, perfect for Christmas Eve.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens.
4. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks. Gradually add a small amount of the hot mixture to temper the yolks.
5. Stir the yolk mixture back into the saucepan and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and butter.
7. Pour the custard into the pie crust.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
9. Let cool before serving.

Notes

• Chill the pie for a few hours for better texture.
• Top with whipped cream before serving.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: christmas eve cinnamon vanilla creamy custard pie