As the holidays approach, the scent of cinnamon and vanilla wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to warm family gatherings. This Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic embrace of cherished moments shared around the table. With its silky custard filling and the perfect balance of spices, this pie is an unforgettable addition to your holiday festivities. Easy to make ahead and wonderfully satisfying, it’s the kind of festive treat that will impress your loved ones without causing stress in the kitchen. Are you ready to indulge in a slice of this comforting classic? Let's dive into the recipe!

Why Is This Pie a Holiday Favorite?

Indulgent, Velvety Custard: The rich custard filling is perfectly balanced with cozy cinnamon and sweet vanilla, making every bite a delightful experience.
Effortlessly Make-Ahead: Prepare this pie in advance, freeing up your holiday schedule for more cherished moments with family.
Versatile Variations: Whether you choose a graham cracker crust or a splash of rum, this recipe allows you to tailor it to your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dessert is sure to impress guests, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia that comes with holiday celebrations.
Beautiful Presentation: Its stunning golden hue and creamy texture will make you the star of any festive gathering! Don’t forget to check out my Tamale Pie Hearty or Spinach Pie Deliciously for more holiday inspiration!

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this delightful holiday dessert!

For the Crust

Pie Crust – Use a homemade or store-bought option for that perfect base; just remember to blind-bake for a crisp texture.

For the Custard

Eggs – Fresh, room-temperature eggs are vital for creating a smooth custard that sets perfectly.
Granulated Sugar – Adjust the amount to your taste; it sweetens without overpowering the spices.
Whole Milk – This creamy richness pairs beautifully with the custard; feel free to swap it for half-and-half for a decadent twist!
Heavy Cream – Adds an ultra-smooth texture; if you want it lighter, more milk works too.
Ground Cinnamon – The star of the show! It brings warmth to the custard, or steep a cinnamon stick for an enticing infusion.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Use for that luscious depth of flavor; vanilla beans can elevate this even further!
Pinch of Salt – A tiny but mighty addition that harmonizes all the flavors; don’t skip this essential ingredient.

Optional Ingredients

Ground Nutmeg – A sprinkle brings warmth, but use sparingly to avoid overshadowing the main flavors.
Orange Zest – Add a fresh, citrusy note for a festive lift to your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Step 1: Pre-bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your pie crust and gently place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes until set, then carefully remove the weights and parchment, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is lightly golden. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare Custard Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine your whole milk, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and pure vanilla extract. Warm the mixture until it's steaming, ensuring it doesn’t boil to prevent separation. If you're using a cinnamon stick or vanilla bean, allow it to steep for 10 minutes; then remove it, leaving behind a fragrant, warm mixture that forms the base for your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

Step 3: Whisk Eggs & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, crack your room-temperature eggs and add granulated sugar with a pinch of salt. Using a whisk, blend these ingredients together until the mixture becomes pale and smooth, approximately 2-3 minutes. This creates a lovely, airy texture for your custard filling, crucial for achieving the perfect balance in your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie.

Step 4: Temper & Combine
Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while continuously whisking—this process is called tempering and prevents the eggs from curdling. Once combined, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to achieve a silky smooth custard texture, ensuring your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie has that velvety finish with no lumps.

Step 5: Fill & Bake
Lower your oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Carefully pour the custard mixture into the pre-baked pie crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly—it should look slightly firm yet creamy. This baking ritual brings your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie to life.

Step 6: Cool & Chill
Once out of the oven, allow the pie to cool to room temperature for about an hour. Afterward, refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the custard set properly. Once chilled, your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie is ready to be sliced and served, perfect for those cozy holiday gatherings.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Fridge: Store your pie covered in plastic wrap or an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the custard fresh and creamy for your holiday gatherings.
Freezer: If you wish to enjoy it later, wrap the pie tightly in foil or a freezer-safe container; it can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Thawing: For optimal taste and texture, thaw your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently warm in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 10-15 minutes until just heated through.

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Variations

Feel free to make this cozy classic your own with these delightful twists and swaps!

Graham Cracker Crust: Swap the traditional pie crust for a graham cracker crust for a sweet, crunchy contrast.
Bourbon Infusion: Add a tablespoon of bourbon for a rich depth that complements the vanilla and cinnamon beautifully.
Mini Pies: Use tart pans to create adorable mini custard pies, perfect for individual servings at your holiday celebration.
Nutmeg Touch: Introduce a pinch of ground nutmeg to the custard for a subtle warmth alongside the comforting cinnamon flavors.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute dairy with almond milk and coconut cream for a vegan-friendly custard that remains rich and enjoyable.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the pie before serving for a decadent flair that chocolate lovers will adore.
Spicy Extra: Enhance the warmth with a dash of cayenne pepper in the custard for a surprising kick that balances the sweet flavors.
Fruit Garnish: Top the cooled pie with fresh berries or a citrusy fruit salad for a refreshing complement to the creamy custard base.

For more delightful holiday recipes, you might enjoy checking out my Watermelon Popsicles Blissful for a lighter treat or a savory option like Spinach Pie Deliciously. Happy baking!

What to Serve with Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Indulge your senses and elevate your holiday gathering with delightful pairings that bring out the best in this silky dessert.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and a sweet contrast, enhancing the rich custard.
Sugared Cranberries: These festive, tart bites offer a pop of color and a refreshing crunch, perfectly balancing the pie's sweetness.
Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: The warm, buttery flavors of these cookies echo the pie's spice profile, making for a delightful dessert duo.
Hot Cocoa or Spiced Cider: Cozy drinks like rich hot cocoa or infused spiced cider offer comforting warmth that pairs beautifully with the custard.
Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiciness complements the cinnamon in the custard, creating a joyous holiday flavor harmony reminiscent of childhood.
Mini Fruit Tarts: Fresh fruits in sweet tarts provide a vibrant, juicy contrast to the creamy custard pie, adding brightness to your dessert table.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of classic vanilla ice cream creates a luscious combination when drizzled over the warm custard slice, enhancing the dessert experience.
Eggnog: This creamy, spiced drink is a classic holiday favorite and makes an indulgent pairing alongside the custard pie, enhancing those warm festive feelings.
Pecan Pie Bites: These bite-sized treats bring nutty sweetness and texture, making each bite of custard pie even more delightful.
Apple Crisp: A warm, cinnamon-spiced apple crisp enriches your holiday spread and contrasts beautifully with the smooth custard filling.

Expert Tips for Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, room-temperature eggs and dairy for the best texture and flavor. Cold eggs can cause the custard to curdle.
Blind-Baking: Always blind-bake your pie crust to avoid a soggy bottom. This extra step ensures that your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie has the perfect crispness.
Temperature Checks: Keep an eye on the baking process. The pie is ready when the edges are set, and the center jiggles slightly—don’t overbake to maintain a creamy custard texture.
Strain for Smoothness: Straining the custard mixture after tempering removes any lumps and results in a silky custard that glides effortlessly onto the palate.
Let It Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before slicing. This resting time enhances the flavors and helps the custard set perfectly for serving.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie ahead of time is a wonderful way to save yourself from last-minute holiday stress. You can make the pie crust up to 3 days in advance; just blind-bake it, then let it cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap and refrigerating. The custard filling can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead; simply combine the ingredients, strain, and then refrigerate until you’re ready to pour it into the crust. When you’re set to serve, gently reheat the pie in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 10-15 minutes to revitalize the flavors and enjoy a silky-smooth dessert that’s just as delicious as if made fresh!

Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting eggs for my custard pie?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh, room-temperature eggs. They play a crucial role in making the custard smooth and creamy. Look for eggs with clean, uncracked shells and a “sell by” date that is as fresh as possible.

How can I store my Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie?
You can store your pie covered in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and maintains the lovely creamy texture. I often suggest letting it sit for a bit at room temperature before serving to rediscover its delightful flavors!

Can I freeze the custard pie for later enjoyment?
Yes! To freeze your Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.

What’s the best way to troubleshoot if my custard pie doesn't set?
If your pie hasn’t set properly, don’t fret! It can still be salvaged. Gently reheat the custard in a saucepan over low heat, whisking continuously until it thickens. Then, re-pour the mixture into the crust and bake again at 325°F (160°C) until the edges are set. This step should help firm it up.

Are there any dietary considerations for my guests regarding this pie?
It's wise to consider dietary restrictions! The recipe contains dairy and eggs, which may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. You can experiment with dairy-free milk alternatives and thickening agents like cornstarch to cater to different needs, making this Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie more inclusive.

How long can I keep my Christmas Eve Cinnamon-Vanilla Custard Pie in the freezer?
Your pie can remain in the freezer for up to 1 month without sacrificing flavor. For the best taste, ensure it's wrapped securely to prevent freezer burn, and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. A bit of patience often leads to delicious rewards!