The Old Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe

If there’s one dessert that’s a true classic, it’s Old Fashioned Custard Pie. The rich, silky custard filling encased in a perfectly flaky, buttery crust is just pure comfort in every bite. It’s the kind of pie that takes you back to the days when dessert was made with love and simplicity. With its delicate sweetness and creamy texture, this pie is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.

Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Custard Pie

Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a slice of custard pie? This recipe is a celebration of traditional flavors with a few little touches that will make you fall in love all over again.

• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: The beauty of this pie lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of basic ingredients, you can create something that tastes just like Grandma used to make.
• Perfectly Creamy Custard: The smooth, velvety custard filling is just the right balance of sweetness, with a hint of nutmeg and vanilla. Every bite melts in your mouth!
• Classic Comfort: This pie takes you back to the good old days, making it the perfect dessert for family gatherings, holidays, or simply to treat yourself to a homemade classic.
• Easy to Make: Despite being a traditional recipe, this custard pie is simple to prepare, making it an accessible option for even beginner bakers.

Ingredients

Let’s talk about the ingredients that make this custard pie a true classic:

Pie Crust: A buttery, flaky crust is the perfect vessel for the custard. You can use store-bought or homemade—either way, it’s the base for this luscious pie.

Eggs: The stars of the custard filling. Eggs provide structure, creaminess, and a rich texture that makes the custard so decadent.

Whole Milk: The creamy liquid that helps make the custard smooth and luscious.

Sugar: Just the right amount of sugar to balance the custard’s richness without overpowering it.

Vanilla Extract: Adds a touch of warmth and sweetness that complements the custard filling beautifully.

Nutmeg: The signature spice that gives this pie its comforting flavor. Freshly grated nutmeg works wonders!

Salt: A small pinch of salt brings out the flavors of the custard and balances the sweetness.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the simple steps that will have you savoring your very own homemade custard pie:

Prepare Your Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges to make it look pretty and elegant. If using a store-bought crust, simply fit it into the dish.

Make the Custard Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until they’re well combined and slightly frothy. Slowly pour in the milk while continuing to whisk to avoid curdling the eggs. Add the vanilla extract, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt, and whisk everything together until smooth.

Pour and Bake: Carefully pour the custard mixture into the prepared pie crust. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly wobbly. The edges will be golden, and the filling should have a soft, custardy texture.

Cool & Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, you can chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours to make it extra refreshing. Serve it chilled or at room temperature—either way, it’s absolutely delicious!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 300
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and pie crust used.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve The Old Fashioned Custard Pie

This custard pie is perfect all on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even more special:

• Whipped Cream: Top with freshly whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.
• Berries: Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a burst of color and freshness, complementing the sweetness of the custard.
• Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of homemade caramel sauce over the pie will elevate the flavor and add an extra layer of decadence.

Additional Tips

Here are a few extra tips to make sure your custard pie turns out perfect every time:

• Don’t Overmix: When whisking the custard, don’t overdo it—just mix until everything is combined to avoid creating bubbles in the filling.
• Use Fresh Nutmeg: If you can, grate fresh nutmeg—it adds a much more fragrant and flavorful touch than pre-ground.
• Test for Doneness: When baking, the center of the pie should be slightly jiggly but not liquid. A toothpick or knife inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
• Chill for Best Texture: If you have time, chilling the pie in the fridge for a few hours before serving will help the custard set fully and create that perfect texture.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this custard pie ahead of time?
A1: Yes! This pie actually tastes even better the day after it’s made. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Q2: Can I use a different type of milk?
A2: You can substitute whole milk with heavy cream for an even richer custard, or use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled or at room temperature.

Q4: Can I make this pie without nutmeg?
A4: Nutmeg is a signature flavor in this pie, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute it with cinnamon or leave it out entirely. The pie will still be delightful!

Q5: Can I freeze the custard pie?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the custard pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q6: What’s the best way to reheat custard pie?
A6: If you prefer your custard pie warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. You can also warm the whole pie in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes.

Q7: Can I make this pie without a pie crust?
A7: Yes, you can make a crustless version by baking the custard filling directly in a greased pie dish. It will be more like a custard flan, but still just as delicious!

Q8: Can I add a fruit topping to the custard pie?
A8: Absolutely! Adding fresh fruit on top, like berries, will complement the creamy custard and make for a colorful and refreshing contrast.

Q9: Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
A9: Yes, store-bought pie crust is a great shortcut, especially when you’re short on time. Just make sure to blind bake it for a few minutes if it’s not pre-baked.

Q10: How do I know when the pie is done baking?
A10: The pie should be golden brown around the edges and the filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center. You can insert a toothpick to check—the pie is ready when the toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Conclusion

There’s something so comforting about a slice of Old Fashioned Custard Pie—it’s the perfect dessert to make for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or just enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, this custard pie is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. With its silky smooth filling, delicate sweetness, and buttery crust, this pie is a true classic that will never go out of style. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and treat yourself to a slice of nostalgia with this delicious custard pie!

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