Old-fashioned Custard Pie Recipe

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Welcome to the ultimate guide to creating a delicious and timeless dessert, the Old-fashioned Custard Pie. This classic recipe has been passed down through generations, cherished for its simplicity and unbeatable flavor. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the history, the list of ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to make the perfect custard pie. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will help you create a custard pie that will undoubtedly become a family favorite.

History of Custard Pie

Custard pies have a rich history that dates back centuries. This delightful dessert has graced the tables of families, especially during holidays and special occasions. Its origins can be traced to European culinary traditions, with each region adding its unique twist.

In the United States, custard pies gained popularity during the 19th century, thanks to the abundance of dairy products and eggs. The Old-fashioned Custard Pie, in particular, became a staple in American households, celebrated for its silky-smooth texture and delightful sweetness.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

  • 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

For the Custard Filling:

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk
  • Ground nutmeg for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Pie Crust

  1. Selecting the Crust: You have the option to use a store-bought crust for convenience, or you can make your own homemade pie crust. If you choose to make it from scratch, follow your favorite pie crust recipe, or check our website for a foolproof pie crust recipe.
  2. Pre-Baking the Crust (Optional): If you’re using a homemade pie crust, it’s a good idea to pre-bake it. To do this, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the crust is set but not fully baked.

Preparing the Custard Filling

  1. Whisking the Eggs: In a mixing bowl, whisk the three large eggs until they are well beaten. You want a consistent texture with no streaks of egg white.
  2. Adding Sugar and Flavor: Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to whisk. This step is crucial as it ensures your custard pie has the right level of sweetness. After the sugar, add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
  3. Incorporating Milk: Slowly pour the 2 1/2 cups of whole milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously. This step ensures a smooth and velvety custard.

Assembling the Pie

  1. Filling the Crust: Carefully pour the custard mixture into the pre-baked pie crust. Ensure an even distribution of the mixture.
  2. Nutmeg Garnish: Sprinkle ground nutmeg on the surface of the custard. This adds a delightful aroma and flavor to the pie.

Baking the Custard Pie

  1. Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your custard pie on the center rack and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes. The custard should be set but slightly wobbly in the center.
  2. Cooling: Once baked, remove the custard pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Afterward, refrigerate it for a few hours to allow the custard to set completely.
  3. Serve and Enjoy: Slice your Old-fashioned Custard Pie, serve, and relish in the creamy, sweet goodness. This pie is perfect on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.