Christmas Eve Custard Pie with Cinnamon & Vanilla

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There is something deeply nostalgic about the aroma of cinnamon and vanilla filling the kitchen on Christmas Eve. This custard pie is all about comforting simplicity and warmth, baked into every silky, golden slice. It combines a creamy vanilla custard base with a whisper of cinnamon spice, wrapped in a flaky pie crust that melts in your mouth with each forkful.

Perfect for quiet evenings by the fire or festive gatherings with family, this pie is a gentle reminder that the best desserts don’t need to be fancy. It’s the kind of recipe you can make while Christmas music plays in the background, knowing it will bring smiles and requests for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Eve Custard Pie

This pie is the ultimate holiday dessert for anyone who appreciates old-fashioned comfort with minimal fuss. The custard is silky and subtly sweet, with warm cinnamon notes and a real vanilla bean flavor that feels like a cozy hug in dessert form. It uses pantry staples, comes together easily, and offers make-ahead convenience that makes holiday hosting so much smoother.

Can I Use a Store-Bought Pie Crust?

Absolutely. While homemade pie crust adds a special touch, a good quality store-bought crust can save time without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to blind-bake it slightly before adding the custard to prevent sogginess. If you’re feeling extra festive, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on the crust before baking for an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredients for the Christmas Eve Custard Pie with Cinnamon & Vanilla

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient serves a purpose and comes together to create a warm, inviting custard pie that tastes like the holidays.

• Pie crust
• Whole milk
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
• Ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg (optional)
• Salt

The pie crust provides structure and a buttery crunch that balances the creaminess of the custard. Whole milk creates the silky base, while eggs add richness and help the filling set perfectly. Granulated sugar sweetens just enough, and vanilla extract gives it that warm, nostalgic aroma. A touch of cinnamon brings in the holiday spirit, and a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors. For a cozier twist, a dash of nutmeg is a welcome addition.

How To Make the Christmas Eve Custard Pie with Cinnamon & Vanilla

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

If using store-bought pie dough, unroll it and press it into a 9-inch pie pan. Crimp the edges and prick the bottom with a fork. Blind bake it at 375°F for about 8 minutes. Let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Whisk the Custard Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt until smooth. Slowly pour in the milk while continuing to whisk, creating a uniform custard mixture.

Step 3: Fill and Bake

Pour the custard mixture into the cooled crust. Carefully transfer the pie to a 350°F oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the center is just set and a slight jiggle remains. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool at room temperature for at least an hour, then refrigerate until ready to serve. It tastes best chilled, but if you’re serving it warm, allow it to cool just enough to slice cleanly.

Serving and Storing This Holiday Pie

This custard pie makes about 8 generous slices, perfect for a family gathering or holiday dessert spread. Serve it with a dusting of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream if you like to dress it up. It stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert for your Christmas menu.

To store leftovers, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. For best texture, enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge or gently warmed in the oven at 300°F.

What to Serve With Christmas Eve Custard Pie

Hot Mulled Wine

A warm glass of mulled wine adds spice and citrus notes that pair beautifully with the cinnamon custard.

Gingerbread Cookies

Crunchy gingerbread men offer a festive contrast in texture and flavor.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Rich and minty, this cozy drink complements the vanilla-cinnamon profile of the pie.

Cranberry Compote

The tartness of cranberries cuts through the custard’s creaminess for a refreshing bite.

Eggnog

A creamy classic that mirrors the custard vibe and adds holiday richness.

Toasted Pecans

Sprinkle over the pie for added crunch and nuttiness.

Apple Cider

Warm or chilled, apple cider brings fruity warmth that pairs perfectly with the spice.

Want More Holiday Dessert Ideas?

If you enjoyed this Christmas Eve Custard Pie, here are more delightful seasonal recipes you might love:

• Ooey Gooey Butter Cake for rich, melt-in-your-mouth decadence.
• Baby Lemon Impossible Pies if you’re looking for something bright and citrusy.
• Pecan Pie Lasagna for layers of sweet and nutty indulgence.
• Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies when you want cinnamon sugar in cookie form.
• Easter Chocolate Lasagna that’s not just for Easter!

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday dessert board so you can make it again year after year.

And don’t forget to leave a comment with how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the cinnamon or add your own twist? I love hearing how these cozy desserts find their way into your family’s traditions.

Explore more comforting, seasonal desserts and healthful drink recipes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest.

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