Name: Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie That's Pure Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: 1 crust Pie Crust (homemade or store-bought); 4 large Eggs (room temperature); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (for sweetness); 2 cups Whole Milk (can substitute with low-fat milk); 1 cup Heavy Cream (can substitute with extra milk); 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (try steeping a cinnamon stick for extra flavor); 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract (use pure for best taste); 1 pinch Salt (to balance flavors); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (optional for festive touch); 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (optional for aromatic brightness)

As the holidays approach, I find myself dreaming of the delightful aromas wafting through my kitchen—nothing quite says Christmas like a freshly baked pie. This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is my go-to recipe, combining the fragrant comforts of cinnamon and vanilla into a creamy, silky filling nestled in a flaky crust. Not only is it a cozy dessert that will impress your guests, but it also offers the flexibility to customize the crust and add your favorite spices for a personal touch. It’s the perfect way to round off your festive feast, leaving everyone at the table with warm memories, one bite at a time. Ready to dive into the world of holiday baking? Let’s get started!

Why is this pie a holiday must-try?

Unforgettable Flavor: This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie bursts with warm spices and a touch of sweet vanilla, creating a nostalgic treat that highlights the spirit of the season.

Versatile Variations: Customize it! Offer a graham cracker crust or incorporate spices like nutmeg for a unique twist that sparks joy and creativity.

Effortless Elegance: Impress your guests without the hassle. Its simple preparation makes it a standout dessert for any gathering.

Perfectly Timed: The best part? It can be made in advance, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities. Consider pairing with lightened whipped cream or even a glass of mulled wine for extra cheer!

For a fun twist, check out my Pumpkin Pie Protein recipe for a delightful alternative that still captures the essence of the holidays!

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Ingredients

For the Pie Crust
• Pie Crust – A homemade or store-bought crust works perfectly for this festive pie.

For the Custard Filling
• Eggs – Room-temperature eggs create a creamier texture and structure for your custard pie.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds the perfect amount of sweetness without overwhelming the cinnamon and vanilla flavors.
• Whole Milk – Provides a light, creamy texture; substitute with low-fat milk if preferred.
• Heavy Cream – Enhances the richness; if unavailable, you can use extra milk as a substitution.
• Ground Cinnamon – The star spice that brings warmth; try steeping a cinnamon stick in the cream for an extra flavor boost.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – For depth and sweetness, always choose pure vanilla over imitation for the best taste.
• Pinch of Salt – A small addition that balances the flavors beautifully.
• Optional Ground Nutmeg & Orange Zest – Adds a festive touch with aromatic brightness, perfect for the holiday season.

Feel free to get creative with this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie by incorporating your favorite flavors!

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

Step 1: Pre-bake the Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish, then place it gently inside. To prevent bubbling, use parchment paper to line the crust and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 20 minutes until slightly golden, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare Custard Base
In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk and heavy cream with ground cinnamon and pure vanilla extract. Heat the mixture over medium flame until it steams, being careful not to let it boil. Stir gently to combine, allowing the warm scents to fill your kitchen as the flavors infuse beautifully. Once steaming, remove from the heat.

Step 3: Whisk Eggs & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine room-temperature eggs, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Using a whisk, beat the mixture until it turns pale and slightly frothy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The goal is to create a light, airy texture that will yield a luscious custard for your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

Step 4: Temper & Combine
Gradually pour the warm milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture while continuously whisking. This process, known as tempering, is crucial for preventing the eggs from scrambling. Once fully combined, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to ensure it is silky smooth and free of any curdled bits.

Step 5: Fill & Bake
Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Pour the custard filling gently into the pre-baked pie crust, taking care not to overfill it. Bake the pie for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center remains slightly jiggly. This visual cue indicates perfect doneness for your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

Step 6: Cool & Chill
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This cooling period allows the custard to firm up slightly. After cooling, cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to enhance the flavors further before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the holiday without the last-minute rush! You can pre-bake the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it’s crisp and ready to hold your luscious custard. The custard filling can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; simply cool it completely before refrigerating. To maintain its silky texture, cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy, pour the chilled custard into the pre-baked crust, bake at 325°F (160°C) for 35-40 minutes, and let it cool before refrigerating. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready in no time, just as delicious as if it were freshly made!

What to Serve with Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

As the aroma of this creamy custard pie fills your home, consider these delightful pairings to create a memorable holiday meal.

Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: This airy topping adds a touch of decadence, balancing the richness of the custard beautifully. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top can enhance that festive feel!
Spiced Mulled Wine: Warm, fragrant, and full of holiday cheer, this drink pairs wonderfully with the custard’s sweet notes. It also sets the perfect cozy atmosphere for your gatherings.
Gingerbread Cookies: Crisp and spiced, these classic holiday cookies complement the pie’s creaminess. They provide a nice texture contrast and a nostalgic taste of Christmas.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: A savory option! Their caramelization and earthy flavor profile serve as a lovely counterpoint to the pie’s sweetness, making for a well-rounded meal.
Holiday Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing, a fruit salad featuring citrus and pomegranate can add a burst of color and flavor. Its acidity cuts through the richness of the pie and cleanses the palate.
Nutmeg Eggnog: For a rich beverage option, consider serving eggnog spiced with nutmeg. This creamy drink mirrors the flavors of the pie, creating a warm, luxurious pairing that feels indulgent.

With these delicious options, your Christmas Eve meal will be a festive celebration of flavors that leave everyone smiling and satisfied!

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this delicious pie your own with these tempting twists and substitutions!

Graham Cracker Crust: Swap traditional pie crust for a graham cracker crust for a sweeter, nostalgic flavor. This crumbly base adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Nutmeg Infusion: Sprinkle in some ground nutmeg along with cinnamon for an extra layer of aromatic warmth. The combination creates a festive blend that will make your tastebuds dance.
Mini Pies: Transform this recipe into charming mini custard tarts for easy serving at gatherings. Just use a muffin tin, and your guests will love the adorable portions!
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness, enhancing the comforting essence of the custard.
Flavored Extracts: Try using almond or maple extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist! Each option brings a distinct flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Flavorful Citrus: Incorporate orange zest into the custard for a bright, citrusy note that elevates the pie. The zest brings a refreshing contrast to the creamy filling, making it even more delightful.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or black pepper for an unexpected hint of heat! This gives a surprising twist to the comforting custard, adding warmth in more ways than one.

For more delicious options, don’t forget to explore the joys of Pumpkin Pie Protein balls or whip up some fun Rice Krispie Treat ghosts that keep the festive spirit alive! Each recipe brings a unique flavor and experience to your holiday table, allowing you to create heartwarming memories with every bite.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Fridge: Keep the pie covered in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy texture and flavors. A pie dome or plastic wrap works well for covering.

Freezer: If you need to store it longer, freeze the pie (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat individual slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or serve chilled for a refreshing dessert option.

Texture Tip: It’s best enjoyed chilled after refrigeration, which allows the custard to set perfectly, ensuring your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie remains delightful!

Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Custard Pie

Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before whisking. They blend better, yielding a smoother custard for your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.
Don’t Rush Tempering: Slowly add the warm cream mixture to the eggs while whisking continuously. This prevents the eggs from curdling, achieving a silky custard.
Watch the Baking Time: Avoid overbaking! The pie should be removed when the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly. This ensures a luscious texture without dryness.
Blind Bake Properly: Pre-baking the crust is crucial to avoid sogginess. Fill the crust with weights during the first bake to maintain its shape.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for an added twist! Personalize your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie to suit your family’s taste.
Chill for Best Flavor: Refrigerating the pie for at least two hours allows the flavors to develop beautifully, making each slice even more delicious.

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right eggs for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting eggs, opt for large, fresh ones labeled as free-range or organic for the best flavor and texture. Room temperature eggs blend more easily, resulting in a smoother custard. If you can, crack a few to check for freshness—look for bright yellow yolks and clear egg whites.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very simple! Keep the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. A pie dome or plastic wrap works wonderfully to ensure it stays fresh. This way, you can savor the delightful flavors without worrying about drying out.

Can I freeze this custard pie?
Of course! To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then cover it with a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the fridge and enjoy it cold or slightly reheated—delicious either way!

How can I avoid curdling the eggs when making custard?
Great question! The key is in the tempering process. Slowly pour the warm milk and cream mixture into the whisked eggs while continuously stirring. Start with just a small amount of the cream to bring the eggs up to temperature gradually. This step prevents them from cooking too fast and curdling, ensuring a smooth custard.

What if I want to make this recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! To make a gluten-free version of the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie, use a gluten-free pie crust option available at most stores, or create your own using gluten-free flour or almond flour. This way, everyone can enjoy this festive dessert without any concerns!

Is this pie suitable for pets?
No, it’s best to keep this pie away from pets. The ingredients, such as eggs and dairy, can be hard on their digestive systems. Always consult with your veterinarian if you’re unsure about sharing any human food with your furry friends.