As the scent of cinnamon and vanilla wafts through my kitchen, I’m instantly transported back to cozy Christmas Eves surrounded by family. This Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a cherished tradition that wraps you in warmth and holiday spirit. Perfect for novice bakers, this recipe combines easily accessible ingredients and simple techniques to create a delightful Christmas Eve dessert that will impress friends and family alike. With a light yet creamy texture and the fragrant spices of the season, this holiday pie recipe offers the dual benefits of being a crowd-pleaser while also allowing for personal twists, like a gingerbread crust or a dash of nutmeg. Are you ready to make your holiday gatherings sweeter and more memorable with this irresistible pie?

Why is This Pie a Holiday Favorite?

Nostalgic Flavors: The combination of cinnamon and vanilla evokes cherished holiday memories, making each slice a delightful trip down memory lane.
Easily Customizable: Whether you want to swap the crust for a gingerbread variety or add a splash of bourbon, this recipe thrives on personal touches.
Perfect for Beginners: If you’re new to baking, this simple yet stunning dessert can be mastered with just a few steps.
Impressive Yet Cozy: Gather your loved ones around the table and serve a pie that looks and tastes gourmet without the fuss.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair with whipped cream or serve alongside hot cocoa for a festive touch, making it a must-have at your holiday gatherings.

Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Ingredients

For the Crust
• Pie Crust – Use homemade or store-bought for convenience; ensure it’s blind-baked for the best texture.
For the Custard
• Eggs (4 large) – Fresh, room-temperature eggs create a stable custard; they’re essential for structure.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) – Sweetens the custard without being overpowering.
• Whole Milk (1½ cups) – Whole milk is preferred for its creaminess, enhancing the custard’s texture.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Adds richness and smoothness to the filling.
• Ground Cinnamon (1½ tsp or 1 cinnamon stick) – The key spice that brings warmth; steeping a stick deepens the flavor.
• Pure Vanilla Extract (2 tsp or 1 vanilla bean) – Pure vanilla elevates the flavor, complementing the warmth of cinnamon excellently.
• Pinch of Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.
• Optional: (¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg, 1 tsp Orange Zest) – Introduces a lovely depth and festive freshness; elevates the holiday vibe.

This Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is a beautiful canvas for delicious memories.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

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, trimming any excess. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes until the edges are set, then remove the weights and parchment, baking for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown. Allow the crust to cool completely before filling.

Step 2: Prepare Custard Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and pure vanilla extract over medium heat. Warm the mixture gently until steaming, making sure it doesn’t come to a boil. If using a cinnamon stick or vanilla bean, steep for about 10 minutes, then remove them to maximize the flavor infusion, creating a rich base for your Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

Step 3: Whisk Eggs & Sugar
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the large eggs, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture becomes pale and smooth, roughly 2-3 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy texture in your custard. Once combined, set the bowl aside, allowing the mixture to reach room temperature while you prepare to combine with the milk mixture.

Step 4: Temper & Combine
Gradually pour the warm milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to temper the eggs and prevent curdling. Ensure that you pour slowly to maintain a uniform temperature. If desired, strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve to achieve an ultra-smooth filling for your Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie, enhancing its luxurious texture.

Step 5: Fill & Bake
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) to ensure gentle baking. Carefully pour the custard mixture into the pre-baked pie crust, filling just below the crust edge. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, checking for doneness; the edges should be set while the center still jiggles slightly when gently shaken. This indicates a creamy, perfect custard consistency.

Step 6: Cool & Chill
Once baked, remove the Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature on a wire rack. After cooling, cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the custard to set fully and flavors to meld. Chilling enhances the pie’s flavor and texture, making it even more delightful when served.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts, saving you time on busy holiday nights! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance; simply bake, cool, and store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the fridge. The custard filling can be made up to 24 hours ahead; allow it to cool completely before pouring it into the crust and refrigerating. To maintain the custard’s creamy texture, avoid freezing the filled pie. When you’re ready to serve, just bake the custard in the pre-baked crust, chill for at least 2 hours, and enjoy this delicious dessert without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie?

As the fragrant cinnamon and vanilla entice your senses, let’s explore delightful pairings that will elevate your holiday feast.

Whipped Cream:
A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy contrast, enhancing each rich bite of custard pie.
Spiced Hot Cocoa:
A warm cup of spiced hot cocoa offers cozy comfort, perfectly matching the pie’s warm flavors for a festive treat.
Mulled Wine:
This aromatic drink, with its blend of spicy and fruity notes, complements the cinnamon in the pie beautifully, creating a harmonious experience.
Cranberry Sauce:
The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the custard, adding a refreshing note to each mouthful.
Ginger Cookies:
Crunchy ginger cookies bring a delightful spice contrast that pairs well with the creamy custard, adding texture to the meal.
Orange Zest & Almond Biscotti:
The zesty brightness from the orange zest and the crunch of almond biscotti provides a sophisticated touch and wonderful contrast alongside the pie.
Pumpkin Spice Latte:
A seasonal favorite, the warm spices in this latte resonate with the custard pie, making for a comforting duo perfect for a winter gathering.
Eggnog:
Rich and creamy eggnog serves as a decadent drink option that echoes the custard’s sweet flavors while celebrating the holiday spirit.
Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting atop warm custard pie creates a dreamy texture, enhancing the indulgence of your dessert.

Storage Tips for Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Fridge: Store the pie covered with foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other odors.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the chilled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the pie to the refrigerator and thaw overnight for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm dessert, gently reheat individual slices in a microwave or a preheated oven set to a low temperature. Enjoy the comforting warmth of your Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie!

Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Variations

Feel free to personalize this delicious pie with your own unique twists and additions.

Gingerbread Crust:
Substitute a traditional crust with a gingerbread cookie crust for added holiday flavor and a fun twist.
Nutmeg Touch:
Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg in addition to cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth and spice that invites cozy memories.
Boozy Bliss:
Add a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy to the custard mix for an adult version that adds depth and sophistication.
Dairy-Free Option:
Replace whole milk and cream with almond, coconut, or oat milk to create a delightful dairy-free custard that everyone can enjoy.
Chocolate Swirl:
Fold in melted dark chocolate into the custard mixture for a rich, decadent twist that balances beautifully with the spices.
Orange Zest Lift:
Adding some fresh orange zest brightens the flavor profile and enhances the nostalgic notes of this Christmas Eve dessert.
Spiced Up:
Experiment with warm spices like cardamom or allspice to give the custard a seasonal twist that tells a new holiday story.
Fruit Layering:
Consider adding a layer of thinly sliced apples or pears on top of the custard before baking for a delightful fruit-flavored pie that surprises and delights.

No matter which variation you choose, remember that this Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is perfectly designed to adapt and shine at your festive gatherings. Pair it with a light dollop of whipped cream or serve alongside some homemade hot cocoa for a heartwarming holiday treat.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Quality Ingredients: Use the best milk and vanilla extract you can find; this elevates the flavor of your custard pie significantly.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the pie in the oven; the center should jiggle slightly to ensure a creamy texture in the finished cinnamon-vanilla custard pie.
Egg Tempering Technique: Always temper your eggs by adding warm milk gradually while whisking to prevent curdling. This guarantees a smooth custard.
Blind Baking Benefits: Don’t skip the blind baking step! It prevents a soggy crust, allowing for a flaky texture that complements the rich custard.
Flavor Customization: Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for unique twists on this classic holiday dessert.

Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of eggs should I use for the custard?
I recommend using fresh, room-temperature large eggs for the best results in your Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie. Fresh eggs contribute to a fluffier custard, while room temperature helps them blend more easily with the warm milk mixture.

How should I store the pie once it’s made?
Store your Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie in the refrigerator, covered with foil or plastic wrap, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This helps retain its moisture and prevents any unwanted flavors from transferring.

Can I freeze the custard pie?
Absolutely! To freeze your pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply move it to the refrigerator for overnight thawing to maintain its creamy texture.

What if my custard pie doesn’t set correctly?
No need to worry! If your pie is too jiggly when it comes out of the oven, it simply needs more time. The key is to look for the edges to be set while the center remains slightly jiggly. If you find the final product too soft, consider reducing the baking time next time, as temperatures can vary. Always remember to cool the pie completely before refrigeration to help it firm up further.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious as this pie contains dairy and eggs. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut or almond milk, though the texture may alter slightly. Always check your ingredients to ensure they’re suitable for any specific dietary requirements.

What can I do if I don’t have vanilla extract?
If you find yourself out of vanilla extract, you can use a vanilla bean instead for a more intense flavor. Simply split the bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds, incorporating them into the custard mixture. If that’s not possible, a dash of almond extract can work as an alternative, but use it sparingly, as it has a strong flavor!