Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe
This Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard pie combines a flaky, buttery crust with a rich, creamy custard infused with warm cinnamon and pure vanilla flavors. Perfectly baked and lightly spiced, this dessert is a comforting and festive treat ideal for holiday celebrations.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 2–3 tablespoons ice water
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar for a slightly sweet crust
Custard Filling
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar if using. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Form into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll and Pre-Bake the Crust: Roll the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough, trim and crimp edges. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line crust with parchment and pie weights, bake 10-12 minutes. Remove weights and bake an additional 5 minutes. Let cool.
- Prepare Custard Filling: Whisk eggs and sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Add vanilla extract and cinnamon, whisking to combine. Gradually stir in heavy cream and add a pinch of salt for balance.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour custard filling into pre-baked crust, avoiding overfilling. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake pie for 45-50 minutes, until edges are set and center slightly jiggles. Cool on wire rack for at least 2 hours as custard sets.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with whipped cream or sprinkle cinnamon if desired. Slice and serve with warm coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy holiday dessert.
Notes
- Ensure butter is very cold for a flaky crust.
- Do not overfill the pie to prevent spilling during baking.
- Custard sets further as it cools; slight jiggle in center when done is normal.
- Use pure vanilla extract for best flavor.
- Pie can be refrigerated and served chilled or at room temperature.
Keywords: Christmas custard pie, cinnamon vanilla custard, holiday pie recipe, baked custard, festive dessert, homemade pie crust
