There’s something incredibly comforting about a classic egg custard pie. It’s one of those desserts that instantly takes you back to simpler times—like the cozy kitchen smells of a grandmother’s house or the feeling of Sunday dinners with the family. This Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie is smooth, rich, and so creamy, with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Trust me when I say, this one is a game-changer! Every bite is like a warm hug, and the best part? It’s super easy to make.
Imagine a golden, flaky pie crust filled with a luscious custard made from eggs, sugar, vanilla, and just the right touch of nutmeg. The flavor is simple but so satisfying, and the texture is silky smooth with a hint of spice that brings everything together. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or just because you’re craving something sweet, this pie will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie
This pie isn’t just delicious—it’s about creating memories in the kitchen and savoring the familiar, comforting flavors that make you feel at home. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
Versatile:
Egg custard pie is the perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s simple enough for a family dinner but impressive enough to serve at a gathering. You can enjoy it any time of year, and it never goes out of style.
Budget-Friendly:
Made with just a few basic ingredients—eggs, sugar, milk, and a few pantry staples—this pie is an easy, affordable treat. No need to spend a fortune to make something special!
Quick and Easy:
This isn’t a complicated pie. The steps are straightforward and forgiving, even for beginner bakers. If you’re looking for a recipe that doesn’t require too much effort but still delivers, this one’s for you.
Timeless Flavor:
Sometimes, the simplest things are the best. The rich custard filling is perfectly balanced with a touch of nutmeg, and the flaky pie crust adds the perfect crunch. It’s a dessert that’ll transport you straight to a place of comfort and nostalgia.
Crowd-Pleasing:
Egg custard pie has that magical ability to make everyone at the table smile. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a potluck, it’s a pie that brings people together. Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, smooth texture!
Ingredients
Here’s the magic behind this egg custard pie—just a few simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Let’s break it down:
Pie Crust: The buttery, flaky crust holds everything together and gives you that satisfying crunch with every bite.
Eggs: The eggs are the backbone of the custard filling, giving it that smooth, velvety texture and rich flavor.
Sugar: A little sweetness goes a long way in this custard, creating a perfect balance with the eggy richness.
Milk: The milk helps to create that silky custard filling. Use whole milk for the creamiest texture, but you can substitute with a lighter milk if needed.
Vanilla Extract: A dash of vanilla enhances the custard’s flavor, making it comforting and familiar.
Nutmeg: This is the secret ingredient that adds just the right amount of warm spice. It’s what turns this pie from simple to extraordinary.
(Note: the full list of ingredients with measurements can be found in the recipe card below!)
Instructions
Ready to make this timeless treat? Let’s get started!
Prepare the Pie Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, just pop it in the oven for about 10 minutes to set it. If you’re making your own, roll it out and fit it into a pie dish. Prick the bottom with a fork a few times to prevent bubbling.
Make the Custard Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until smooth. Slowly add the milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of nutmeg, stirring constantly until everything is well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy on top.
Pour and Bake:
Pour the custard mixture into the prepared pie crust. Make sure to pour gently to avoid any bubbles forming. Sprinkle a little extra nutmeg on top for added flavor and a pretty finish. Bake the pie for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. It should have a slight wobble in the center but shouldn’t be runny.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing (this will help the custard firm up). Serve chilled or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 250
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 19g
Protein: 4g
Vitamin A: 12%
Vitamin C: 0%
Calcium: 6%
Iron: 4%
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie
This pie is lovely on its own, but here are some ways to elevate your pie experience:
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top is a classic touch that adds a little extra indulgence.
- Fruit Compote: Serve with a warm fruit compote—like berries or peaches—for a fresh contrast to the rich custard.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top for an extra touch of warmth and sweetness.
- Coffee or Tea: Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience that feels like a special treat.
Additional Tips
- Prep Ahead: This pie is great for making ahead of time! Just bake, cool, and refrigerate overnight. It’ll be ready to serve the next day.
- Spice Variations: Nutmeg is the traditional spice, but you can experiment with a dash of cinnamon or even a hint of ginger for a unique twist.
- Storage Tips: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. This pie is best served chilled, so you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving hits!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
A1: Yes, absolutely! A pre-made pie crust will save you time and still result in a delicious pie.
Q2: Can I use almond milk or another non-dairy milk?
A2: Yes, you can substitute almond milk or another non-dairy milk for the regular milk. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.
Q3: Can I make this pie gluten-free?
A3: Yes! Just use a gluten-free pie crust, and you’re all set. The custard itself is naturally gluten-free.
Q4: How do I know when the custard is fully cooked?
A4: The custard should be set with a slight wobble in the center when you tap the pie dish. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Q5: Can I make this pie in advance?
A5: Yes! It’s actually better when made ahead, as it allows the custard to set fully and the flavors to meld.
Q6: How can I add more flavor to the custard?
A6: You can experiment with different spices like cinnamon, ginger, or even a splash of bourbon for a unique twist!
Q7: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A7: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This pie is delicious chilled!
Q8: Can I freeze egg custard pie?
A8: It’s not the best for freezing, as the custard filling might change texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.
Q9: Can I add a meringue topping?
A9: Absolutely! If you love meringue, you can top the pie with a light meringue and bake it for a few minutes until golden.
Q10: Can I make individual custard pies?
A10: Yes! You can make individual pies by using a muffin tin or small tart pans. Just adjust the baking time to around 20-25 minutes.
Conclusion
This Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie is the perfect blend of simple, nostalgic flavors and comforting textures. It’s a timeless classic that’ll always have a place at your table. So go ahead, get baking, and treat yourself to a slice (or two)—this pie is the kind of dessert that makes life just a little bit sweeter. Enjoy!
PrintOld-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A timeless dessert, this Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie is smooth, creamy, and perfectly spiced with a hint of vanilla. With a flaky pie crust and rich custard filling, it’s a family favorite that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it is just about to boil. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until well combined.
- Slowly add the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour the custard mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing and serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- The pie will firm up as it cools, so be sure to let it set for a while before cutting.
- You can sprinkle additional nutmeg on top before serving for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter pie, you can increase the sugar by 1-2 tablespoons.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 125mg