Vanilla Custard Pie

Vanilla Custard Pie is a timeless dessert that combines a smooth, creamy custard with the sweet simplicity of a flaky pie crust. This old-fashioned favorite is infused with rich vanilla flavor and a silky texture that melts in your mouth. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a comforting, elegant dessert perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie is delightfully simple yet decadent, using just a few ingredients to create a rich, custardy filling that’s naturally gluten-free (apart from the crust). It’s ideal for make-ahead gatherings, family dinners, or when you want a dessert that feels nostalgic and refined. The creamy vanilla flavor and golden top make it both beautiful and delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• Whole milk
• Heavy cream
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Cornstarch (optional, for extra stability)
• Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
• Salt
• Ground nutmeg (optional, for topping)

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Fit your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges. Blind bake if desired for a crisper bottom.
2. In a saucepan, warm milk and cream over medium heat until just hot (not boiling).
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, vanilla, salt, and cornstarch (if using).
4. Slowly temper the egg mixture by adding a small amount of the hot milk while whisking constantly.
5. Gradually add the rest of the hot milk mixture into the eggs, whisking well.
6. Pour the custard into the prepared pie shell.
7. Optional: Lightly dust the top with ground nutmeg.
8. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
9. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours
Total time: 3 hours
Servings: 8 servings

Variations

• Coconut Custard Pie: Stir in shredded sweetened coconut before baking.
• Spiced version: Add cinnamon or cardamom to the custard for a warm twist.
• Citrus touch: Add a little lemon or orange zest for a fresh, fragrant note.
• Low-sugar option: Reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute for a lighter pie.
• Mini pies: Bake in tart shells or muffin tins for individual servings.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.

Vanilla custard pie is best served cold or at room temperature. If you’d like to serve it warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. Do not overheat to avoid curdling the custard.

FAQs

What’s the difference between custard pie and cream pie?

Custard pie is baked with the custard filling in the shell, while cream pie has a cooked filling poured into a pre-baked shell and chilled.

Can I use just milk instead of cream?

Yes, but using a mix of milk and cream gives a richer, silkier texture. Whole milk alone works in a pinch.

Why do I need to temper the eggs?

Tempering prevents the eggs from scrambling when adding the hot milk by gradually bringing them up to temperature.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, it’s a great make-ahead dessert. Bake the day before and chill until ready to serve.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The center should jiggle slightly but not be liquid. It will continue to set as it cools.

Can I freeze custard pie?

It’s not recommended. Freezing can change the texture and cause separation when thawed.

What type of crust works best?

A traditional pie crust (buttery or shortcrust) is ideal, but graham cracker crust also works for a variation.

Can I add fruit to the custard pie?

Yes, layering thinly sliced fruit like bananas or berries before adding the custard can be a delicious addition.

Is this pie gluten-free?

The filling is gluten-free, but be sure to use a gluten-free pie crust if needed.

Can I use vanilla bean instead of extract?

Yes, using vanilla bean paste or scraped vanilla bean seeds gives it an extra gourmet touch.

Conclusion

Vanilla Custard Pie is a dessert that never goes out of style. With its creamy, luscious filling and subtle vanilla flavor, it’s a comforting classic that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a family dinner, or simply because you crave something sweet and elegant, this custard pie will always deliver warmth and satisfaction.

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