A classic Southern dessert, this Egg Custard Pie features a smooth, creamy filling nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. Lightly spiced with nutmeg, this simple yet elegant pie is perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or any time you crave a nostalgic homemade treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Smooth and Creamy Texture – The custard filling is rich, velvety, and lightly sweetened.
- Easy to Make – A simple recipe with basic ingredients and no complicated steps.
- Classic Southern Comfort – A traditional pie that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or family gatherings.
- Lightly Spiced with Nutmeg – Adds a subtle depth of flavor to complement the custard.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Directions
Prepare the Oven and Pie Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and set aside.
Make the Custard Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- Slowly whisk the warm milk into the egg mixture, stirring continuously to prevent curdling.
Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the custard mixture into the unbaked pie crust.
- Sprinkle the top evenly with ground nutmeg for flavor and decoration.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
- Let the pie cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 290 kcal per serving
Variations
- Coconut Custard Pie – Stir in ½ cup shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Spiced Custard Pie – Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Vanilla Bean Custard – Use vanilla bean paste instead of extract for a deeper vanilla flavor.
- Dairy-Free Alternative – Replace whole milk with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Crustless Custard Pie – Bake the custard in a buttered pie dish without a crust for a lower-carb option.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Serve chilled or warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
Why did my custard pie crack?
Overbaking or rapid temperature changes can cause cracks. Bake until just set, and let the pie cool gradually.
Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, but whole milk provides the creamiest texture. If using low-fat milk, the custard may be slightly less rich.
How do I know when the custard is fully set?
The pie is ready when the center jiggles slightly but does not slosh. A toothpick or knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
Should I pre-bake the pie crust?
For a crispier crust, blind-bake the pie crust at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes before adding the custard.
Can I add whipped cream on top?
Yes! A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon adds extra richness and flavor.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! Egg custard pie is best when chilled, so making it a day ahead enhances the flavor and texture.
Can I make mini custard pies?
Absolutely! Pour the custard into small tart shells and bake for 20-25 minutes instead.
What’s the difference between egg custard pie and chess pie?
Egg custard pie has a milk and egg-based filling, while chess pie contains cornmeal and vinegar, giving it a different texture.
Why is my custard grainy?
If the milk was too hot when mixed with the eggs, it can cause curdling. Always temper the eggs by slowly adding warm milk while whisking.
What can I serve with egg custard pie?
It pairs well with coffee, tea, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Conclusion
This Egg Custard Pie is a smooth, creamy, and nostalgic dessert that’s both simple and elegant. With its light sweetness, rich custard filling, and flaky crust, it’s a timeless classic that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner. Serve chilled or warm, and enjoy a slice of Southern comfort!
