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Classic Creamy Vanilla Custard Pie with Buttery Flaky Crust

A close-up of a thick slice of creamy custard pie with a golden-brown, slightly textured top, resting on a white plate.

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Whip up this easy, old-fashioned custard pie for a comforting dessert. You get a smooth, non-cracking vanilla filling baked in a perfectly flaky, buttery crust. It is simple to make ahead for holidays or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for topping)
  • 2 2/3 cups whole milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate. Do not pre-bake the crust.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs lightly. Do not over-beat the eggs; you want to avoid incorporating too much air to prevent cracking later.
  3. Whisk in the sugar and salt until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Slowly pour in the whole milk while continuing to whisk gently until the mixture is smooth.
  5. Pour the liquid custard filling into the unbaked pie crust.
  6. Carefully sprinkle the nutmeg evenly over the top of the filling, if you are using it.
  7. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes. The pie is done when the edges are set and slightly puffed, but the center still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
  8. Remove the pie from the oven. Let it cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. For the best texture, chill the pie for several hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

  • To achieve a smooth, creamy filling that does not crack, avoid over-beating the eggs and do not open the oven door during the first 30 minutes of baking.
  • If you are looking for alternatives to traditional baking, consider how tools like a sous-vide precision cooker might offer different texture results in other recipes.
  • This pie is excellent served chilled, making it a great choice for meal planning ahead of a big dinner.
  • If you prefer a Southern style, try using a crustless variation or adding a pinch of cinnamon to the milk mixture.

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