Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever wondered what dessert could truly capture the essence of the holiday season? Look no further than Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie – Creamy Holiday Dessert Magic. This delightful pie is a celebration of flavors, combining the warm embrace of cinnamon with the smooth richness of vanilla custard. Each bite transports you to a cozy winter evening, filled with laughter, joy, and the sweet aroma of spices wafting through the air.
As I reminisce about my childhood holiday gatherings, I remember my grandmother’s kitchen bustling with activity. The smell of freshly baked pies would fill the room, drawing everyone together in eager anticipation. Her signature dish was always this custard pie, a creamy masterpiece that brought smiles to our faces. It’s perfect for family gatherings or festive parties, making it an ideal choice for Christmas Eve celebrations. I promise this recipe will create delicious memories for you and your loved ones!
Key Ingredients For Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie – Creamy Holiday Dessert Magic
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pie Crust: Use either a homemade or store-bought crust; choose one that complements the creamy filling well.
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Granulated Sugar: This sweet ingredient balances the spices and enhances the custard’s flavor.
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Ground Cinnamon: A key spice that adds warmth and depth to the pie, so use fresh ground for optimal flavor.
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Whole Milk: Whole milk creates a rich and creamy custard texture; avoid skim milk for best results.
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Eggs: Fresh eggs help set the custard while providing a silky smooth consistency.
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Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract to impart a deep vanilla flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
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Nutmeg: A pinch adds a subtle earthiness that rounds out the flavors perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie – Creamy Holiday Dessert Magic
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step : Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure it’s hot enough to bake your pie evenly. While it’s heating, prepare your pie crust by placing it in a pie dish.
Second Step : Prepare The Filling
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine whole milk, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until sugar dissolves completely but do not let it boil.
Third Step : Whisk The Eggs
In a separate bowl, crack open your eggs and whisk them until they are fully blended. Slowly add some of the warm milk mixture to temper the eggs before mixing everything together in the saucepan.
Fourth Step : Combine And Cook
Return the mixture to low heat. Continue stirring gently until it thickens slightly—this should take about five minutes.
Fifth Step : Pour Into Crust
Once thickened, pour the custard filling into your prepared pie crust. Smooth out any bubbles on top for an even finish.
Sixth Step : Bake And Cool
Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes or until set. Allow it to cool completely before slicing into this creamy delight!
Serve slices topped with whipped cream or a sprinkle of additional cinnamon for an extra festive touch!

Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh eggs and dairy products for optimal flavor and texture in your custard pie.
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Don’t Rush The Cooling Process: Allowing your pie to cool completely helps prevent cracks in the custard as it sets.
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Add Some Zest: For an interesting twist, consider adding lemon or orange zest into your filling for added brightness.
Presentation Ideas
This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie – Creamy Holiday Dessert Magic is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the rich custard. Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra festive flair.
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Fresh Berries: Serve the pie with a side of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the custard, making each bite delightful.
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Mint Leaves: Garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness. The vibrant green contrasts beautifully against the creamy pie and adds an aromatic element to your presentation.
Storage Tips
To keep your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie – Creamy Holiday Dessert Magic fresh, store it in the refrigerator. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from absorbing other flavors. This dessert can last up to three days in the fridge. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, consider making the custard filling separately and assembling it just before serving. This will maintain its creamy texture and delicious taste.
Baking Tips
For perfect results with your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie – Creamy Holiday Dessert Magic, follow these baking tips:
1. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth custard consistency.
2. Avoid overmixing the egg mixture, as this can introduce bubbles that may prevent the custard from setting properly.
3. Use a pie crust that is slightly chilled to help retain its shape while baking. A pre-baked crust ensures a crisp base for your creamy filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie – Creamy Holiday Dessert Magic with:
1. A sprinkle of cinnamon for added warmth and flavor.
2. A drizzle of caramel sauce for a sweet contrast that enhances the pie’s richness.
3. Pairing with hot beverages like spiced cider or coffee can elevate this dessert experience during holiday gatherings.
Nutritional Information
Each slice of this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie – Creamy Holiday Dessert Magic offers a balance of indulgence and comfort. While it contains sugars and fats typical in desserts, enjoying it in moderation allows you to savor its rich flavors without guilt during holiday festivities.
FAQs
How can I make my Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie gluten-free?
To create a gluten-free version of your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie – Creamy Holiday Dessert Magic, replace regular flour in the crust with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Check if your vanilla extract is gluten-free as well, since some brands may contain traces of gluten.
Can I use different spices in my custard pie?
Absolutely! While cinnamon and vanilla shine in this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie – Creamy Holiday Dessert Magic, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for unique flavor profiles. Just be mindful not to overpower the delicate taste of the custard.
What should I do if my custard doesn’t set properly?
If your custard doesn’t set after baking, make sure you whisked the eggs thoroughly but not excessively to avoid air bubbles. Additionally, ensure you’re baking at an appropriate temperature; too high heat can cook the eggs too quickly and result in a runny filling.
Can I freeze my Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie?
Yes! You can freeze your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie – Creamy Holiday Dessert Magic for up to two months. Make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for best texture results.
Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie – Creamy Holiday Dessert Magic
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in the warmth of the holiday season with this delightful Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie. Each slice boasts a creamy custard infused with aromatic cinnamon and rich vanilla, making it the perfect centerpiece for festive gatherings. This pie not only captures flavors reminiscent of cozy family moments but also promises to create sweet memories with every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie crust in a pie dish.
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine milk, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until sugar dissolves; do not boil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until blended. Gradually add warm milk mixture to temper the eggs, then combine everything in the saucepan.
- Cook on low heat, stirring gently until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Pour custard into the prepared crust and smooth out any bubbles on top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until set. Allow to cool completely before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 140mg