Introduction:
Indulge in the nostalgic comfort of an Old-Fashioned Silky Creamy Custard Pie! This classic dessert boasts a velvety-smooth custard filling nestled in a flaky, golden crust. Each slice is a heavenly blend of rich, creamy textures and delicate sweetness, making it a cherished dessert for gatherings or a satisfying treat for quiet moments.
The allure of an Old-Fashioned Custard Pie traces back to my grandmother’s cherished recipe book. I remember watching her effortlessly blend eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla into a simple yet elegant custard filling. The scent of warm vanilla and the anticipation of the pie slowly baking to golden perfection—it was a culinary journey into the past. This pie became a symbol of love and tradition, a dessert that connected generations and brought smiles to our family gatherings.
“Why This Silky Smooth Pie Defines Classic Sweetness: Old-Fashioned Silky Creamy Custard Pie”
- Silky Custard Perfection: Revel in the luscious, velvety texture of the custard filling, delicately sweetened and flawlessly creamy.
- Homemade Elegance: A timeless dessert that embodies simplicity and sophistication with every blissful bite.
- Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to casual get-togethers, offering a taste of tradition.
Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust (or use store-bought):
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Custard Filling:
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Freshly grated nutmeg for topping (optional)
Directions:
For the Pie Crust:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled cubed butter and blend with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough starts to come together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges. Pierce the bottom of the crust with a fork, line it with parchment paper, and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
- Blind bake the crust for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment paper, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
For the Custard Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined.
- In a saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat until it’s just about to boil.
- Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher or bowl to remove any lumps.
- Pour the strained custard into the pre-baked pie crust. Sprinkle freshly grated nutmeg on top if desired.
- Bake the pie at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the custard is set around the edges but slightly wobbly in the center.
- Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Refrigerate for a few hours or overnight before slicing.
Notes:
- Ensure the custard mixture is strained to achieve a smooth texture in the pie.
- Use a pie shield or foil to cover the crust edges if they start to brown too quickly during baking.
- Top the custard with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use a different type of milk for the custard? A: You can use low-fat or evaporated milk, but whole milk typically provides the creamiest result.
Q: Can I make the pie crust in advance? A: Yes, the pie crust can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen until ready to use.
Q: Can I make the pie without nutmeg? A: Certainly! Nutmeg adds a classic flavor, but the pie will still be delicious without it.
Savor the velvety smoothness and gentle sweetness of this Old-Fashioned Silky Creamy Custard Pie—a timeless dessert that captures the essence of homemade goodness!