As the scent of cinnamon begins to dance through the air, I can’t help but feel that unmistakable holiday spirit creeping in. This Christmas Eve, I’m delighted to share my cherished recipe for Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie—a dessert that embodies warmth and joy. With its silky custard filling set in a crisp, flaky crust, this festive pie not only dazzles the eye but also brings comfort to the table, making it perfect for both the seasoned baker and the curious novice. Plus, it’s a simple yet stunning addition to your holiday gatherings, offering a brilliant balance of rich flavors without overwhelming the palate. So, ready to create a sweet centerpiece that will have everyone begging for seconds? Let’s dive into the comforting world of custard pie!

Why is this pie a holiday favorite?

Warm, Inviting Aroma: The delightful scent of cinnamon and vanilla fills your kitchen, instantly welcoming everyone into the holiday spirit.

Silky Texture: Each slice delivers a smooth, creamy custard that melts in your mouth, providing a comforting experience that resonates with cherished holiday memories.

Versatile Variations: Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with a gingerbread crust or a splash of bourbon, this pie can adapt to any festive gathering.

Time-Saving Delight: Prepping this pie is straightforward, allowing you to focus on enjoying the season with family and friends.

Stunning Presentation: It’s both a feast for the eyes and the taste buds, making it an ideal dish to impress your guests. You can even pair it with a glass of mulled wine or warm cocoa.

If you’re looking for more delicious holiday ideas, check out my Vanilla Custard Pie and Caramel Apple Pie for a lovely dessert spread!

Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Ingredients

For the Pie Crust
• Pie Crust – Use a flaky, crisp homemade or store-bought crust for the best base to this delightful pie.

For the Custard Filling
• Eggs (4 large) – Fresh, room temperature eggs provide structure and creaminess to your custard.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) – Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.
• Whole Milk (1½ cups) – Contributes to the custard’s smooth texture and pairs beautifully with cream.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Ensures a rich mouthfeel and elevates the custard’s luxurious texture.
• Ground Cinnamon (1½ tsp or 1 cinnamon stick, steeped) – Infuses your pie with a warm, festive flavor perfect for holiday gatherings.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp or 1 vanilla bean, scraped) – Enhances the sweetness and adds depth; pure vanilla is key for the best results.
• Salt (pinch) – Elevates the overall flavors and balances the sweetness of the custard.
• Optional Nutmeg (¼ tsp) & Orange Zest (1 tsp) – These ingredients add extra warmth and a delightful citrusy lift to your custard pie.

This Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is sure to impress and fill your holiday table with comfort and joy!

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

Step 1: Pre-bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully fit your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. To prevent bubbling while baking, use pie weights or dried beans and blind-bake for 15 minutes. Once slightly golden, remove the weights and let it bake for an additional 5 minutes until just golden brown and crisp.

Step 2: Prepare Custard Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream along with the ground cinnamon and pure vanilla extract. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it becomes aromatic and starts steaming, but do not let it boil. Stir occasionally to blend the flavors, allowing the custard base to warm thoroughly, which infuses delightful holiday essence.

Step 3: Whisk Eggs & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the room-temperature eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture turns pale and frothy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, enhancing the custard’s texture. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved, resulting in a smooth and creamy base for your Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

Step 4: Temper & Combine
Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture while continuously whisking to avoid scrambling the eggs. This tempering process ensures a gentle blending of ingredients. Once combined, pour the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a measuring cup or bowl to remove any lumps, creating an incredibly silky texture for your pie.

Step 5: Fill & Bake
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and slowly pour the custard into the pre-baked pie crust. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the edges are set, and the center jiggles slightly when gently shaken. This slight jiggle is a sign of a perfectly set custard that will continue to firm up as it cools, ensuring that classic custard texture.

Step 6: Cool & Chill
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature on a wire rack. This cooling phase is essential for the filling to settle. After it has cooled completely, cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to develop the flavors further and achieve the perfect slice of your Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Fridge: Refrigerate your Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Freezer: If you want to make this delightful pie ahead, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Make-Ahead Tip: For fresh flavor, bake the pie a day ahead, cool it at room temperature, cover, and chill until serving time.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who want to savor the flavors of the holidays without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the pie crust and store it, covered, in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance. You can also make the custard filling and pour it into the pre-baked crust, covering it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to delight your guests, simply bake the pie straight from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed. This way, you can enjoy the delicious, comforting flavors of Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie while spending more time with your loved ones!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your pie; it should jiggle slightly in the center when done. This ensures a creamy custard texture rather than a dry filling.
Proper Egg Tempering: Always gradually add the warm milk mixture to the eggs while whisking continuously to avoid curdling. This step is crucial for a smooth custard.
Use a Sieve: Straining the custard through a fine-mesh sieve guarantees an ultra-smooth filling without any lumps, enhancing the overall texture of your pie.
Bake in a Water Bath: Consider placing your pie dish in a larger pan filled with water while baking to promote even cooking and prevent cracks on the surface.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the custard to set perfectly, making every slice a delight.

What to Serve with Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Indulge in a holiday feast by pairing your custard pie with delightful side dishes and beverages that elevate the festive experience.

Light Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy contrast to the creamy custard, enhancing each bite’s richness.
Mulled Wine: The warm spices of mulled wine harmonize beautifully with cinnamon and vanilla, creating a cozy drink that complements your dessert.
Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries like raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing burst of flavor, cutting through the pie’s sweetness perfectly.
Gingerbread Cookies: The warm flavors of gingerbread echo the spices in your custard pie, making for a charming dessert duo that’s especially festive.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside for an indulgent treat; the creamy texture and vanilla flavor enhance the pie without overwhelming it.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce can add a touch of decadence, creating a delightful contrast to the creamy filling.
Cocoa or Hot Chocolate: For a non-alcoholic pairing, a cup of warm cocoa adds a nostalgic touch, enhancing the cozy holiday vibe.
Caramel Sauce: A light drizzle of caramel can add an exciting flavor twist, offering a sweet contrast to the creamy custard with buttery notes.
Candied Pecans: Their crunch and sweetness bring a lovely textural contrast to each slice, enhancing the overall eating experience with a hint of warmth.

Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful pie and discover new flavors that will make your holiday gatherings even more special!

Graham Cracker Crust: Swap the traditional crust for a graham cracker version for a delightful crunch and sweetness.
Gingerbread Crust: Embrace the festive spirit by using a gingerbread cookie crust for a spiced twist that’s simply delightful.
Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream and whole milk with coconut milk or almond milk for a creamy, dairy-free option.
Nutmeg Boost: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg to the custard for a warm, aromatic flavor that perfectly complements the cinnamon.
Bourbon Kick: For a grown-up version, mix in a splash of bourbon for added depth and a hint of warmth in every bite.
Mini Pies: Create individual servings by filling tart pans with the custard, perfect for festive gatherings or cozy get-togethers.
Chocolate Swirl: Incorporate a rich chocolate swirl into the custard mixture for a decadent chocolaty flavor intermingled with vanilla.
Citrus Zest: Brighten up the flavor by adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the custard for a refreshing twist.

If you’re looking for more irresistible holiday dessert inspiration, don’t miss my classic Vanilla Custard Pie or the warm, sweet notes of Caramel Apple Pie. These alternatives will surely delight anyone at your holiday table!

Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting eggs?
Using fresh, room-temperature eggs is key for the best custard texture. Look for eggs without any cracks and check the expiration date to ensure freshness. If they feel heavy for their size, they’re usually fresher!

How should I store my Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie?
Absolutely! Refrigerate your pie covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This storage method enhances the flavors and keeps the custard creamy, giving you that delightful taste each time you slice into it.

Can I freeze the pie for later use?
Yes! To freeze your Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

What should I do if my custard isn’t setting?
If your custard is too runny, it might not have baked long enough. Make sure to check for a slight jiggle in the center when it’s finished—this is crucial! If it still doesn’t set, don’t hesitate to return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. Also, using a water bath while baking can help promote even cooking and prevent this from happening.

Is this pie safe for people with allergies?
Since this Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie contains eggs, dairy (in the form of milk and cream), and gluten (in the crust), it’s not suitable for those with egg, dairy, or gluten allergies. For those with dietary restrictions, consider using egg substitutes, dairy-free milk, and gluten-free crust alternatives to enjoy a version that’s safe for you!

How can I enhance the flavors?
If you’re looking for an extra flavor boost, you can add ground nutmeg or a hint of orange zest to the custard mixture. These spices not only heighten the pie’s pleasant aroma but also introduce lovely warmth and brightness, making each bite even more delightful.