The scent of warm spices wafting through the air is enough to transport me to my favorite holiday gatherings, where laughter and love fill the room. This Christmas Eve, I’m excited to share my Vanilla Cinnamon Pie – a creamy, comforting dessert that wraps you in a cozy embrace. With its smooth filling and flaky crust, it’s the perfect way to elevate your festive menu and delight anyone tired of the usual sweets. Plus, this simple recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for those busy nights when you want to impress without the stress. Let’s turn your kitchen into a holiday haven—are you ready to bake some sweet memories?
Why is Vanilla Cinnamon Pie a must-try?
Irresistible Warmth: The blend of vanilla and cinnamon creates an inviting aroma that fills your home with holiday cheer.
Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip up this delightful pie in no time—perfect for those last-minute holiday gatherings!
Versatile Desserts: Feel free to experiment with variations like Apple Cinnamon Pie or Pecan Cinnamon Pie for a personal twist that everyone will love.
Rich, Creamy Texture: Each slice boasts a velvety filling nestled in a flaky crust, offering a luxurious bite that melts in your mouth.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dessert isn’t just for the holidays; it’s a year-round favorite that guarantees smiles all around.
Perfect Pairings: Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat!
Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie Ingredients
• Elevate your holiday dessert with this deliciously comforting pie!
For the Crust
- Pie Crust – A flaky base that adds texture; feel free to use store-bought for convenience.
- Pie Weights – Essential if pre-baking; they help maintain the crust’s shape.
For the Filling
- Room Temperature Eggs – Adds richness for a creamy filling; cold eggs may lead to a lumpy texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the pie while balancing the spices; adjust to taste!
- Brown Sugar – Offers depth and moisture; you can tweak the amount for desired sweetness.
- Ground Cinnamon – The star spice; it brings aromatic warmth to this Christmas Eve pie.
- Vanilla Extract – Use pure for the best flavor; it enhances the richness of the filling.
- Heavy Cream – Creates that desired creamy texture; substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.
What are you waiting for? Gather these ingredients and let the festive baking begin!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you opt for a homemade pie crust, roll it out and fit it into your pie dish, ensuring you crimp the edges for a beautiful finish. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes, then use pie weights or dried beans to pre-bake for 10 minutes, until lightly golden and set.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine room temperature eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well incorporated, ensuring no lumps remain. Gradually add the heavy cream while mixing gently, creating a luscious, creamy filling for your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie.
Step 3: Combine and Pour
Once your filling is ready, carefully remove the pre-baked crust from the oven. Pour the smooth filling into the crust, allowing it to settle evenly. Give the pie dish a gentle shake to eliminate any air bubbles trapped in the mixture. This step ensures a velvety texture in your finished pie.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes. Look for the center to have a slight jiggle; it should be set at the edges but still slightly wobbly in the middle. This indicates that your creamy custard is perfectly cooked while ensuring it’s delightfully creamy and rich.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature. This crucial cooling step typically takes about 1 to 2 hours; it develops the flavors beautifully. For optimal taste, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before serving, or overnight for an even richer flavor.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Pie
When ready to serve your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie, slice it into generous pieces. Pair each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Admire the creamy, spiced filling and flaky crust that make this dessert a festive favorite!
Variations & Substitutions for Vanilla Cinnamon Pie
Feel free to get creative with this delightful pie, transforming it into something uniquely yours!
- Apple Cinnamon Pie: Add thinly sliced apples to the filling for a fruity twist and natural sweetness. This adds a lovely texture while complementing the warm spices.
- Pecan Cinnamon Pie: Mix in chopped pecans for a delightful crunch and rich flavor. The nutty surprise elevates every bite, making it a crowd favorite.
- Chocolate Cinnamon Pie: Incorporate chocolate chips or chunks to satisfy chocolate lovers in your family. The combination of chocolate and cinnamon creates a rich and inviting experience.
- Graham Cracker Crust: Swap the traditional pie crust for a graham cracker one for a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the creamy custard. It’s a fun twist that kids will adore!
- Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a nut-based cream for a dairy-free version. This adds a hint of tropical flavor that makes it exciting!
- Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol for those watching their sugar intake. You won’t lose out on the creamy goodness; just be sure to adjust proportions accordingly.
- Spiced Up Filling: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon for an exotic touch. This subtle shift in spices can transform the profile of your pie, making it even more festive.
For an added treat, consider serving your creation with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. If you’re curious about more flavor combinations, check out my recipes for Crumbl Pumpkin Pie Cookies or Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet for some inspiration!
What to Serve with Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie
Elevate your holiday meal by adding delicious sides and drinks that beautifully complement the festive flavors of this sweet dessert.
- Fresh Whipped Cream: A cloud of lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the creamy custard and adds a delightful airiness to each bite.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts into the warm pie, creating a luscious combination that feels indulgent and festive.
- Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, spiced drink pairs perfectly with the pie, wrapping you in cozy flavors that echo the comforting spices in your dessert.
- Buttery Shortbread Cookies: These crisp cookies offer a satisfying contrast in texture that complements the pie’s creamy filling, making for an irresistible pairing.
- Cinnamon Spiced Nuts: A bowl of mixed nuts glazed with cinnamon brings a satisfying crunch while enhancing the warm spice theme of your dessert.
- Roasted Pears: Sweet, caramelized roasted pears infused with cinnamon create a delectable side that ties in beautifully with the pie’s flavors.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of chocolate sauce adds an unexpected twist, delivering richness that plays off the vanilla and cinnamon beautifully.
- Eggnog: The creamy, spiced characteristics of eggnog echo the warm notes of the pie, making it a delightful holiday beverage to sip alongside your dessert.
- Caramel Sauce: A pool of homemade or store-bought caramel enhances the sweetness and introduces a comforting depth that your guests will love.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie ahead of time can save you valuable hours during the holiday rush! You can make the pie crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the crust and chill it until you’re ready to fill it, and respectfully refrigerate the filling mixture (to prevent browning and maintain its creamy texture). When you’re ready to bake, pour the filling into the chilled crust and proceed with baking as directed. Letting the pie chill overnight in the fridge after baking enhances its flavors, making it just as delicious if not better! Embrace these make-ahead options to enjoy stress-free holiday gatherings with everyone admiring your impressive dessert!
Storage Tips for Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie
Fridge: Store your pie covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days to keep it fresh and creamy.
Freezer: If you want to extend its life, freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the pie in the fridge overnight. This will allow it to regain its creamy texture beautifully.
Reheating: For a warm slice, you can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature (about 300°F/150°C) until warmed through, but avoid overheating to maintain the perfect custard consistency.
Expert Tips for Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie
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Chill the Crust: Always chill your pie crust after rolling it out. This prevents shrinking during baking and ensures a beautifully flaky finish.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs and cream. Cold ingredients can lead to a grainy filling, so plan ahead to prevent common mistakes.
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Jiggle Test: When baking, look for a slight jiggle in the center of the pie. This indicates your custard is perfectly creamy and will set as it cools.
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Cooling Time: Don’t rush the cooling process. Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating to deepen the delicious flavors of your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie.
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Ingredient Quality Matters: Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. High-quality ingredients elevate your pie from good to extraordinary!
Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of eggs should I use for the filling?
Using room temperature eggs is essential for achieving a smooth, creamy filling in your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie. Cold eggs can lead to a grainy texture, so I recommend taking them out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you start mixing your ingredients.
How should I store the pie after baking?
After baking, cover your pie with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and flavor. If you want to enjoy it later, freeze the pie wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze my Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your pie, make sure it’s completely cool after baking. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight freezer container to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight to preserve the creamy consistency before serving.
What should I do if my pie cracks during baking?
If your pie cracks, don’t worry too much—it can still taste great! To prevent this from happening, ensure you bake at the correct temperature and avoid overbaking. If you notice cracks forming, reduce the oven temperature slightly and watch the pie closely. Remember, a slight jiggle in the center is a good sign for a creamy consistency!
Is this pie suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! The Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie does not contain nuts in its basic recipe, making it a suitable dessert for those with nut allergies. However, always check your pie crust and any toppings for potential allergens just to be safe!
What can I serve with the pie to enhance its flavor?
I often recommend serving your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also sprinkle ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top for added flavor and visual appeal!
Savor Christmas Eve with This Cinnamon-Vanilla Creamy Custard Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your pie crust.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 15 minutes and pre-bake for 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- Gradually add in the heavy cream while mixing gently.
- Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust and gently shake to eliminate air bubbles.
- Bake for about 45 minutes until the edges are set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Allow to cool at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours and refrigerate before serving.
- Slice and serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
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