Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie

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There’s magic in the air during the holidays, and few things capture that cozy, festive feeling better than a slice of this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie. With its silky-smooth texture, gentle vanilla notes, and dusting of cinnamon spice, this pie brings a nostalgic warmth that tastes like a hug from home. Each bite melts delicately in your mouth, offering that perfect balance of sweet and spiced flavors wrapped in a flaky, golden crust.

This custard pie is everything you want in a winter dessert: simple ingredients, comforting flavors, and an elegance that makes it worthy of your holiday table. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or having a quiet celebration, this pie is destined to become a new Christmas Eve tradition.

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Why You’ll Love This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie

This dessert isn’t just beautiful to serve—it’s also wonderfully easy to make. The vanilla custard is made on the stovetop with familiar pantry staples, then baked in a pre-made or homemade pie crust for a fuss-free treat.

It’s:

• Incredibly creamy with a melt-in-your-mouth custard.
• Just the right touch of cinnamon warmth.
• A perfect make-ahead dessert.
• Loved by both kids and adults.

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What Kind of Pie Crust Should I Use?

You can use a store-bought pie shell if you’re in a hurry, but if you have a little time, a homemade butter crust elevates this pie to another level. The crust serves as the crisp, buttery base that contrasts the custard’s creaminess. Just make sure it’s blind-baked beforehand to prevent sogginess—this helps keep that lovely flaky bottom intact when the filling goes in.

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Ingredients for the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie

Every ingredient in this pie plays an important role in building its comforting, creamy character:

• Whole Milk: The base of the custard, providing richness and smooth texture.
• Eggs: Essential for thickening and setting the custard into a luscious, sliceable consistency.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the vanilla.
• Cornstarch: Helps stabilize the custard and prevent weeping.
• Vanilla Extract: The star flavor, bringing warmth and depth to the pie.
• Ground Cinnamon: For that gentle festive spice sprinkled on top.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds creaminess and shine.
• Pie Crust: A pre-baked 9-inch shell forms the crisp base.
• Whipped Cream (optional): For topping, adding a light and fluffy finish.

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How To Make the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie

Step 1: Blind Bake the Pie Crust

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a store-bought or homemade crust, prick the bottom with a fork and line it with parchment paper and pie weights. Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool.

Step 2: Whisk the Custard Base

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until it begins to steam.

Step 3: Temper the Eggs

In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. Slowly pour about a 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the eggs while whisking continuously, then return the egg mixture to the saucepan. This step prevents scrambling.

Step 4: Cook the Custard

Continue to whisk constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens into a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until glossy and smooth.

Step 5: Fill and Chill

Pour the warm custard into the pre-baked pie shell. Smooth the top and sprinkle with ground cinnamon. Let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until fully set.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of cinnamon right before serving, if desired.

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How to Serve and Store This Custard Pie

This pie serves 8 generous slices and is best served chilled straight from the fridge. The custard is firm enough to slice cleanly, yet still luxuriously soft and creamy. For serving, a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon will make it feel extra festive.

To store, keep the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing—custards don’t always hold up well to freezing and can split when thawed.

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What to Serve With This Pie?

Spiced Hot Chocolate

A rich, dark cocoa with cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne complements the creamy vanilla notes beautifully.

Mulled Wine or Apple Cider

Warm spiced drinks elevate the holiday feel.

Roasted Pecans or Candied Nuts

Add a bit of crunch on the side to contrast the soft custard texture.

Peppermint Ice Cream

If you’re after something extra indulgent, a scoop of peppermint ice cream makes for a magical pairing.

Holiday Fruit Salad

A refreshing citrus or berry mix brightens the rich custard experience.

Gingerbread Cookies

Serve a small one alongside the pie slice for a festive edible garnish.

Irish Coffee or Chai Latte

End your evening with a comforting drink and a sweet slice.

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Want More Holiday Dessert Ideas?

If you’re craving more sweet festive flavors, explore these delightful options:

• Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie for deep cocoa richness.
• Whipped Shortbread Cookies that melt in your mouth.
• Oreo Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls for a gooey twist on tradition.
• Easter Swirl Pie for a colorful, creamy celebration.
• Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins for breakfast or dessert.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use homemade crust or store-bought? Add nutmeg? Serve it with whipped cream or ice cream?

I love seeing your versions of my recipes. Don’t forget to tag and share!

Explore beautifully curated holiday desserts and health-boosting drinks on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to seasonal treat!

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