Description
A timeless classic, Old-Fashioned Custard Pie combines a smooth, creamy custard filling with a flaky pie crust for a comforting dessert that has delighted families for generations. This easy-to-make pie features a delicate blend of eggs, milk, vanilla, and warm spices baked to perfection and chilled to a luscious finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Crust
- 1 Pastry for one 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Custard Filling
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pie Crust: Move the oven rack to the lowest position inside the oven. Preheat the oven to 450°F. Line a 9-inch pie plate with the pastry for the pie crust and set aside.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a medium bowl, slightly beat the eggs using a whisk. Gradually beat in the granulated sugar, whole milk, vanilla extract, salt, and ground nutmeg until fully combined and smooth. Pour this custard filling evenly into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake at High Temperature: Place the pie on the lowest oven rack and bake at 450°F for 20 minutes to set the custard and start browning the crust.
- Continue Baking at Lower Temperature: Reduce oven temperature to 350°F and continue to bake the pie for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. To check doneness, insert a knife halfway between the center and the edge of the pie; it should come out clean when the custard is fully set.
- Chill the Pie: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours to allow the custard to fully set and the flavors to meld. Refrigerate any leftovers immediately after serving to preserve freshness.
Notes
- Using a store-bought crust can save time, but homemade crust enhances flavor and texture.
- Be careful not to overbake; the custard should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when taken out of the oven.
- For best flavor, chill the pie overnight.
- Ground nutmeg can be adjusted or substituted with cinnamon based on preference.
- Serve chilled for a refreshing and classic dessert experience.
