Classic Egg Custard Pie Recipe – A Southern Comfort Dessert

Egg custard pie is a beloved Southern dessert that has stood the test of time. With its smooth, creamy filling and crisp, flaky crust, it’s the ultimate comfort dessert that brings back cherished memories for many. The rich custard, subtly sweet and perfectly spiced with vanilla and nutmeg, makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a Sunday dinner, or simply to satisfy your dessert cravings, this classic recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Egg Custard Pie

• Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples, no fancy equipment required.
• Rich, creamy texture: The custard filling is smooth with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Perfect for any occasion: Ideal for holidays, family get-togethers, or a weeknight dessert.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake it a day in advance to save time.
• Versatile: Enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings.

If you’re looking for more comforting recipes to pair with this pie, try our Avocado Tajín Egg Salad or Million Dollar Deviled Eggs. For a hearty side, you can’t go wrong with our Easy Jiffy Mexican Cornbread Recipe.

Ingredients

Servings: 8 | Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 90 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours

For the Pie Crust

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

For the Custard Filling

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Equipment

• 9-inch pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin (if making homemade crust)
• Fine mesh strainer (optional for smoother custard)
• Pie weights or dry beans for blind baking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Pre-Bake the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a 9-inch pie dish.
2. Roll out your pie dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough into the pie dish, press it into the edges, and crimp the rim.
3. Freeze the crust for 15 minutes to prevent shrinking.
4. Line the crust with parchment paper, fill with pie weights or beans, and bake for 45-50 minutes until lightly golden. Remove weights and cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Custard Filling

1. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, salt, and nutmeg until combined.
3. Add eggs and whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.
4. Stir in melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. For a smoother custard, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Place the pie dish on a baking sheet. Carefully pour the custard mixture into the pre-baked crust.
2. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness—the center should register between 170°F and 175°F.
3. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the custard to fully set.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with a light sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon.
• Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair it with a warm beverage like coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
• Hosting a gathering? Add a savory contrast with our Avocado Tajín Egg Salad or Million Dollar Deviled Eggs.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Cover and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended as custard texture may change upon thawing.
• Make-ahead: Bake the pie a day in advance for stress-free entertaining.
• Pie crust prep: Prepare the crust up to 2 days ahead or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Expert Tips for the Best Egg Custard Pie

• Use cold butter when making a homemade crust for extra flakiness.
• Blind bake the crust to prevent sogginess from the custard filling.
• Don’t overbake. The custard will set as it cools, so a slight jiggle in the center is ideal.
• Strain the filling before baking for a velvety smooth texture.
• Freshly grate nutmeg for a more vibrant and aromatic finish.

Variations and Flavor Twists

• Coconut Custard Pie: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the filling.
• Chocolate Custard Pie: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
• Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a bright flavor note.
• Spiced Custard: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for added warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Yes, it’s a convenient time-saver and still delivers a delicious result.

Why is my custard pie watery?

Overbaking or using low-fat milk can cause a watery filling. Stick to whole milk and monitor baking time carefully.

How can I tell when the pie is done?

The custard should be set around the edges with a slight jiggle in the center. An instant-read thermometer should read between 170°F and 175°F.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bake it a day ahead and chill it in the refrigerator. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

Egg custard pie is a classic dessert that delivers both nostalgia and flavor in every bite. With its creamy custard, flaky crust, and warm notes of vanilla and nutmeg, it’s a dessert that never goes out of style. Perfect for holiday tables, family dinners, or a simple weeknight indulgence, this pie is sure to become a favorite. With make-ahead options and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll find yourself turning to this recipe time and time again.

Want to complete your meal? Pair this dessert with our Easy Jiffy Mexican Cornbread Recipe for a delicious comfort food combo.

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