Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Villa Creamy Custard Pie: A Festive Dessert Delight
Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie is a delightful dessert that perfectly embodies the warmth and coziness of the holiday season. This rich and creamy pie features a smooth custard infused with fragrant cinnamon and vanilla, all nestled in a buttery crust. It’s an ideal ending to your Christmas Eve dinner, offering a comforting and indulgent treat that will impress your guests. In this article, we’ll guide you through the ingredients, preparation steps, and serving suggestions for this festive pie.
Ingredients List
To prepare Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker custard)
- Whipped cream for serving
- Ground cinnamon for garnish
Ingredient Substitutions
- Pie Crust: You can use a homemade pie crust or a graham cracker crust for a different flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pre-made pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. If using cornstarch for a thicker custard, whisk it in at this stage. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
Step 3: Pour the Filling into the Crust
Carefully pour the custard filling into the prepared pie crust, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted into the custard comes out clean. The edges may be slightly puffed, but the center should remain soft.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the custard to set completely. Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content per slice (approximately 1/8 of the pie):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugars | 15g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Calcium | 8% DV |
*DV = Daily Value based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie even healthier, consider these modifications:
- Use Low-Fat Milk: Substitute whole milk with low-fat or almond milk for a lighter version.
- Reduce Sugar: Cut down on the sugar or use a sugar substitute to lower the calorie count.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie with these creative serving ideas:
- With Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries or sliced apples for a refreshing contrast.
- A La Mode: Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Spiced Whipped Cream: Add a pinch of nutmeg or additional cinnamon to the whipped cream for extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie turns out perfectly, keep these common pitfalls in mind:
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the pie while baking; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
- Not Cooling Properly: Allow the pie to cool completely before refrigerating to ensure the custard sets properly.
- Skipping the Whipped Cream: Don’t forget the whipped cream topping; it adds a delightful creaminess to each slice.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To maintain the freshness and flavor of your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze slices in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie is a festive and delicious dessert that will delight your family and friends. With its creamy texture and warm spices, this pie is sure to become a holiday favorite. Try this recipe for your Christmas celebrations, and enjoy the sweet flavors of the season!
FAQs
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance and refrigerate it until serving.
What can I serve with the pie?
It pairs well with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream.
Can I use a different flavor of custard?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with flavors like chocolate or pumpkin for a unique twist.
Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Villa Creamy Custard Pie
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker custard)
- Whipped cream for serving
- Ground cinnamon for garnish
- Ingredient Substitutions
- Pie Crust: You can use a homemade pie crust or a graham cracker crust for a different flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pre-made pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. If using cornstarch for a thicker custard, whisk it in at this stage. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
Step 3: Pour the Filling into the Crust
Carefully pour the custard filling into the prepared pie crust, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted into the custard comes out clean. The edges may be slightly puffed, but the center should remain soft.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the custard to set completely. Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.