Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie Recipe – Festive & Delicious

Indulge in the festive flavors of Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie Recipe – Festive & Delicious. This delightful dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings, combining a buttery crust with a smooth custard that bursts with cinnamon and vanilla flavors. Easy to prepare, this pie will make your Christmas Eve celebrations memorable, and it is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delightful Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and vanilla creates a warm, inviting taste that embodies the spirit of the holidays.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether enjoyed plain or topped with whipped cream, this pie adapts to your preference for a festive touch.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance to save time on Christmas Eve without sacrificing freshness or flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This creamy custard pie is bound to be a hit at any holiday gathering, pleasing both adults and kids alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making the pie, gather the necessary tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness for your pie crust, ensuring it bakes uniformly.
• Pie dish: Provides structure to the pie while allowing for even cooking and easy serving.

Ingredients

To create your festive masterpiece, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Crust

• All-purpose flour – 1 1/4 cups
• Cold unsalted butter – 1/2 cup (cut into small cubes)
• Ice water – 2-3 tablespoons
• Salt – A pinch
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar (if you prefer a slightly sweet crust)

For the Filling

• Large eggs – 3
• Granulated sugar – 1/2 cup
• Heavy cream – 1 1/4 cups
• Pure vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons
• Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
• Salt – A pinch

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie Recipe – Festive & Delicious

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by mixing the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl.
1. Add cold butter cubes to the bowl.
2. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to combine until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water until dough forms; do not overwork it.
4. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you roll out the dough.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches wide.
2. Carefully transfer it to your pie dish, pressing gently into place.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together eggs and granulated sugar until smooth.
2. Stir in heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour filling into prepared crust.
1. Bake for about 50 minutes or until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
2. Let cool before slicing.

Now you have a stunning Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie ready to bring joy to your holiday table!

How to Serve Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie Recipe – Festive & Delicious

Serving this delightful pie is a wonderful way to enhance your holiday gatherings. The creamy custard and warm spices are sure to create a festive atmosphere that everyone will enjoy.

Classic Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light, airy contrast that complements the rich custard.

Cinnamon Sugar Dusting

• Lightly sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the pie before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and spice.

Fresh Berries

• Pair the pie with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a burst of color and tartness that balances the sweetness.

Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add a creamy, cool element that enhances the overall flavor.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over each slice for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will appreciate.

Mint Garnish

• Add fresh mint leaves as a garnish to each plate for a pop of color and a refreshing herbal note.

How to Perfect Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie Recipe – Festive & Delicious

Achieving the perfect custard pie requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dessert!

• Use cold ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream are cold. This helps create a flaky crust and prevents curdling in the custard.
• Blind bake the crust: Pre-bake your pie crust before adding the filling. This keeps it crispy and prevents sogginess.
• Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture in your custard.
• Check for doneness: The custard should be set but slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
• Cool completely: Allow the pie to cool at room temperature before chilling. This ensures proper set and enhances flavors.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate after cooling; this allows flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite more enjoyable.

Best Side Dishes for Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie Recipe – Festive & Delicious

Complement this rich dessert with delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Holiday Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the pie.
2. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted mixed nuts with cinnamon and sugar offer a crunchy contrast and festive flair.
3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of soft cheeses paired with crackers can provide savory bites between sweet slices of pie.
4. Cranberry Sauce
   A tangy cranberry sauce can cut through the sweetness of the custard, offering a delightful contrast.
5. Pumpkin Soup
   A warm bowl of pumpkin soup provides comforting flavors that resonate with holiday traditions.
6. Garlic Breadsticks
   Soft, buttery breadsticks bring warmth and texture to your meal while being easy to prepare ahead of time.
7. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonally roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots bring color and nutrition to your table.
8. Mulled Wine
   A spiced mulled wine warms up any gathering, making it an ideal pairing for this festive dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using warm butter: Warm butter can affect the crust’s texture. Always use cold, cubed butter for a flaky crust.
• Skipping the chilling time: If you skip chilling the dough, it can shrink during baking. Make sure to chill the crust for at least 30 minutes.
• Underbaking the custard: A runny custard can ruin your pie. Bake until the center is set but slightly jiggly; it will firm up as it cools.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure accurate measurements.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Oven temperatures can vary. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the pie in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking with other desserts.

Freezing Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie Recipe – Festive & Delicious

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie Recipe – Festive & Delicious

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds. Check regularly to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: For slices, place in a skillet over low heat with a lid. Heat gently for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie last?

The pie will last up to 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.

Can I freeze this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie Recipe – Festive & Delicious?

Yes! You can freeze this pie for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap it well before freezing.

What is the best way to serve this custard pie?

Serve it chilled or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by using alternative sweeteners or dairy-free options based on your dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or looking for a comforting dessert, this recipe fits perfectly. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite flavors or toppings! Give it a try and enjoy a slice of holiday cheer!

Print

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Celebrate the magic of Christmas with this irresistible Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie. This delightful dessert features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a velvety custard infused with warm cinnamon and rich vanilla flavors. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this pie is easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether served plain or adorned with whipped cream and fresh berries, this creamy custard pie will enchant your family and friends, creating lasting memories around the holiday table.

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed)
• 2–3 tablespoons ice water
• Pinch of salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add cold butter and work until crumbly. Gradually mix in ice water until dough forms. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. Transfer dough into the dish, pressing gently.
4. Make the filling: Whisk together eggs and sugar until smooth. Stir in heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
5. Pour filling into the prepared crust and bake for about 50 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
6. Cool completely before slicing and serving.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 130g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 21g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Chill your ingredients for a flakier crust. Consider blind baking the crust for extra crispiness. Customize by adding nutmeg or using alternative sweeteners.