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The Ultimate Smooth & Creamy Old Fashioned Vanilla Custard Pie

A close-up of a creamy slice of custard pie dusted with cinnamon, next to the rest of the pie.

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Make a classic, old-fashioned vanilla custard pie with a perfectly smooth, velvety filling and a buttery, flaky crust. This simple recipe uses basic ingredients for a comforting dessert ideal for holidays or any dinner.

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
  • 2 2/3 cups whole milk
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Do not pre-bake the crust.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs lightly. Do not over-beat the eggs, as this can introduce too much air and cause cracks.
  3. Add the sugar and salt to the eggs. Whisk until just combined.
  4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Slowly pour the whole milk into the egg mixture while whisking gently until everything is smooth.
  6. Pour the custard filling into the unbaked pie crust.
  7. Carefully sprinkle a small pinch of ground nutmeg over the top of the filling.
  8. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The pie is done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
  9. Remove the pie from the oven. Let it cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. The custard will finish setting as it cools.
  10. Chill the pie for at least 2 hours before serving for the best, creamiest texture.

Notes

  • To prevent the crust edges from burning, cover them loosely with aluminum foil halfway through the baking time.
  • For a crack-free custard, bake the pie until just set and avoid opening the oven door frequently during the first 30 minutes of baking.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute 1/2 cup of the whole milk with heavy cream.

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