Description
The Christmas Eve Vanilla Sugar Cream Pie is a no-egg, custard-based dessert that strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease. At its heart is a smooth, luscious vanilla custard filling made by simmering milk, cream, sugar, and cornstarch until thickened to perfection. The pie filling is nestled in a pre-baked buttery crust, ensuring a flaky and tender base that complements the creamy texture of the custard.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for sweetness and structure)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch (as a thickening agent)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to enhance flavors)
- 2 cups whole milk (for creaminess)
- 1 cup heavy cream (adds richness)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for a silky finish)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (for flavor)
For Topping:
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation Tips (Step-by-Step Instructions)
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
Pre-bake your pie crust according to package instructions (if using store-bought) or your favorite homemade recipe. Let it cool completely before adding the filling. - Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients, preventing clumps when adding liquids. - Add Wet Ingredients:
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously to avoid scorching. - Cook the Custard:
Cook the mixture for about 8-10 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. - Fill the Crust:
Pour the hot custard into the pre-baked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for 1 hour. - Chill:
Transfer the pie to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. - Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, lightly dust the top with cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive finish. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg