Description
This Old-Fashioned Custard Pie recipe is a classic American dessert featuring a smooth, creamy egg custard baked to perfection in a flaky 9-inch pie crust. Delicately flavored with vanilla and nutmeg, it’s an elegant vintage treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Custard Filling
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus more for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for baking the custard pie.
- Mix Eggs, Sugar, and Salt: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and salt until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Warm the Milk: Gently warm the whole milk in a saucepan over low heat until it is lukewarm to the touch, avoiding overheating.
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly whisk the warmed milk into the egg mixture to temper the eggs, ensuring the custard remains smooth and prevents curdling.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the pure vanilla extract and a pinch of ground nutmeg to infuse the custard with warm, aromatic flavors.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Place the unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie dish and crimp the edges as desired to create a decorative border.
- Pour Custard Filling: Carefully pour the prepared custard filling into the pie crust, ensuring even distribution.
- Top with Nutmeg: Sprinkle a little extra ground nutmeg on top of the custard for added flavor and aroma.
- Bake the Pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, until the center is just set. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean, though the center may still jiggle slightly.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve before pouring it into the pie crust.
- This pie is best served chilled or at room temperature to enhance its creamy texture.
- Store any leftovers wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
