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Introduction

The holiday season is a time for warmth, joy, and the delight of sharing delicious treats with loved ones. One standout dessert that embodies the spirit of Christmas is the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie. This enchanting pie brings together the comforting flavors of cinnamon and vanilla, creating a rich, creamy custard that is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.

Imagine the scene: a cozy kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of baking spices, laughter echoing through the air, and the anticipation of enjoying a slice of this decadent pie after a festive meal. With its silky texture and harmonious blend of flavors, this custard pie not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also adds a touch of elegance to your holiday table.

What makes this dessert truly special is its simplicity. Made with just a few key ingredients, including heavy cream, whole milk, and eggs, the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is easy to prepare, even for those who may be pressed for time during the bustling holiday season. It’s the perfect way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Key Ingredients

Heavy Cream (1 ½ cups)

Heavy cream is the star of this custard pie, providing a rich and velvety texture that makes each bite feel indulgent. Its high fat content ensures that the custard sets beautifully while maintaining a smooth consistency.

Whole Milk (½ cup)

Whole milk adds creaminess and balances the richness of the heavy cream. It contributes to the custard’s overall flavor and ensures a delightful mouthfeel that enhances the pie’s enjoyment.

Granulated Sugar (¾ cup)

Granulated sugar sweetens the custard, bringing out the flavors of cinnamon and vanilla. It plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of sweetness without overpowering the other ingredients.

Eggs (4 large)

Eggs are essential for setting the custard. They provide structure and richness, allowing the pie to hold its shape while contributing to its creamy texture.

Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons)

Vanilla extract infuses the custard with warm, aromatic notes. It enhances the overall flavor profile, complementing the cinnamon and creating a comforting holiday dessert.

Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)

Ground cinnamon adds a warm, spicy kick that evokes the spirit of the season. Its fragrant aroma and flavor enhance the custard, making it an irresistible holiday treat.

Salt (¼ teaspoon)

A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors, ensuring that the pie is perfectly seasoned.

Prepared Pie Crust (1)

A prepared pie crust forms the base of this delightful dessert. Whether homemade or store-bought, it provides a flaky contrast to the creamy custard filling, making each slice a delicious combination of textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When it comes to holiday desserts, the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie stands out for its delightful combination of flavors and textures. This pie is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy young professionals who love homemade food. Its warm notes of cinnamon and vanilla evoke the cozy spirit of the season, ensuring that each bite is a comforting experience.

What truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. You can easily customize the pie by adjusting the sweetness or adding a dash more cinnamon for an extra kick. It’s an inviting dessert that pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of cinnamon on top, making it visually appealing and even more delicious. Plus, it yields eight generous servings, so there’s plenty to share with family and friends during festive gatherings.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply want to treat yourself, this custard pie is sure to impress. It’s a classic dessert that captures the essence of Christmas, making it a must-try recipe for your holiday celebrations.

Variations

The Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is a versatile dessert that can be easily adapted to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. One delightful variation is to incorporate seasonal fruits like pears or apples into the custard for a fruity twist. Simply slice the fruit thinly and layer it in the prepared pie crust before pouring the custard mixture on top. This not only adds flavor but also a beautiful presentation.

Another option is to experiment with spices. While cinnamon and vanilla are classic choices, consider adding a hint of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth and complexity. These spices complement the custard beautifully, making it even more festive for holiday gatherings.

For those looking for a lighter option, you can substitute some of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. This will give the custard a tangy flavor while reducing the overall richness, making it a great choice for health-conscious guests. With these variations, you can customize the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie to create a unique dessert that everyone will love!

Cooking Tips and Notes

Perfecting Your Custard

To achieve a smooth and creamy custard for your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie, ensure that you whisk the ingredients together thoroughly. This helps to incorporate air and prevents any lumps from forming. For the best results, use fresh eggs and high-quality vanilla extract, as these ingredients significantly enhance the flavor.

Baking Tips

When baking your pie, it’s essential to monitor the time closely. Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness around the 45-minute mark. The custard should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. A knife inserted into the custard should come out clean when it’s properly cooked. Let it cool for at least an hour before slicing, as this will help it firm up further.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch of indulgence, consider serving your custard pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. These small additions can elevate the dessert, making it a true showstopper at your holiday gatherings. Don’t forget to share your pie with friends and family, as this delightful dessert is best enjoyed together!

Serving Suggestions

The Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is not only a delectable dessert on its own but can also be elevated with a few thoughtful serving suggestions. To enhance its creamy texture and warm spices, consider adding a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top. This addition not only adds richness but also visually transforms the pie into a festive centerpiece.

For an extra touch of elegance, serve each slice with a light dusting of ground cinnamon or a sprinkle of nutmeg. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful finish that excites the senses.

If you’re looking to add a fruity twist, consider pairing the pie with a side of spiced poached pears or caramelized apples. These fruits complement the flavors of the custard while adding an inviting contrast in texture.

Lastly, for a delightful crunch, serve the pie with a sprinkle of crushed nuts, such as pecans or almonds, on top. This not only adds a delightful crunch but also elevates the overall presentation, making your Christmas Eve gathering even more special. With these serving suggestions, your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie will surely impress your guests and become a cherished holiday tradition.

Time Breakdown

Preparation

Preparing the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie takes about 15 minutes. During this time, you’ll gather your ingredients and whisk together the custard mixture, ensuring everything is well combined for a smooth texture.

Cooking/Baking

Once prepared, the pie needs to bake for approximately 50 minutes at 350°F (175°C). It’s crucial to keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure the custard sets perfectly without overcooking.

Total

In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish. This makes it an ideal dessert option for time-pressed holiday gatherings, allowing you to enjoy a homemade treat without spending all day in the kitchen.

Nutritional Facts

Understanding the nutritional profile of the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie can help you enjoy this delightful dessert with mindfulness. Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, making it a rich yet indulgent treat for festive occasions. The pie is relatively high in fats, with 22 grams per serving, primarily due to the heavy cream and eggs, contributing to its creamy texture and decadent flavor.

In terms of carbohydrates, it has around 30 grams, with 24 grams of sugar that enhance its sweetness. While it does contain some protein (5 grams), it’s important to enjoy this pie in moderation, especially for those watching their caloric intake. The pie is suitable for vegetarians, allowing a wide range of guests to partake in this holiday favorite without concern.

FAQ based on “People Also Ask” section

What is the best way to serve Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie?

The best way to serve this custard pie is chilled, with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a light dusting of cinnamon on top. These additions enhance the flavor and create a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests.

How long does it take to make Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie?

The total time to make this pie is about 1 hour and 5 minutes, including 15 minutes of preparation and 50 minutes of baking. This makes it a perfect choice for time-pressed holiday gatherings.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie a day in advance. Just ensure to store it covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

What are some variations for this custard pie?

You can experiment with flavors by adding a splash of almond extract or incorporating seasonal fruits like pears or apples into the custard. These variations add a delicious twist and make the pie even more festive.

Conclusion

The Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful centerpiece that embodies the warmth and joy of the holiday season. With its rich custard infused with cinnamon and vanilla, this pie is sure to become a cherished tradition at your gatherings.

Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also offers a comforting taste that resonates with homemade goodness. Whether served with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon, each bite will evoke feelings of nostalgia and festive cheer. This pie is a perfect way to bring family and friends together, making every celebration a little sweeter.

So, this holiday season, treat yourself and your loved ones to this scrumptious custard pie. Cook it, share it, and enjoy the joy it brings to your table!

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