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Flawless, Creamy Old-Fashioned Custard Pie

A close-up of a creamy custard pie with a slice cut out, dusted generously with cinnamon.
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Make this classic, old-fashioned custard pie for a truly silky smooth dessert. This simple recipe delivers a velvety vanilla filling without the stress of a cracked top.

Ingredients

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  • 1 (9 inch) unbaked flaky pie crust
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for topping)
  • 2 cups whole milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate. Do not pre-bake the crust.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs lightly. Do not over-beat the eggs, as this incorporates too much air and can cause cracking.
  3. Whisk in the sugar and salt until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Gently warm the whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it is steaming but not boiling. Remove from heat.
  5. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly and gently. This tempering step helps create a smooth texture.
  6. Pour the custard mixture into the unbaked pie shell. If you wish to add cinnamon on top, sprinkle it lightly over the surface now.
  7. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes. To prevent cracking, place a baking sheet on the lower rack of the oven while the pie bakes. This helps regulate the bottom heat.
  8. The pie is done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle (about 1 inch diameter).
  9. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This slow cooling is key to a non-cracked top.

Notes

  • For an extra creamy custard pie filling, use only whole milk. Skim milk can result in a less rich texture.
  • To avoid a cracked top, do not overbake. The residual heat will finish cooking the center as it cools.
  • If you are making this for Christmas Eve, add a pinch of nutmeg to the milk while warming for a subtle holiday spice.
  • This recipe uses pantry staples, making it a wonderful simple dessert pie.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://eatableempress.com/creamy-custard-pie-recipe-old-fashioned/