Simple Classic Egg Custard Pie Recipe
This creamy dessert is smooth, sweet and comforting. A classic egg custard pie has rich flavor with simple ingredients. It is an old-fashioned dessert many families still love today.
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 4 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
Prepare the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the pie crust carefully into a pie dish if not prepared.
Beat the Eggs
- Crack eggs into a large mixing bowl. Whisk gently until the eggs become smooth and fully blended together.
Add Sugar and Salt
- Pour sugar and salt into the eggs. Whisk again until the mixture looks creamy and slightly lighter in color.
Add Milk and Vanilla
- Slowly pour milk into the bowl while whisking gently. Add vanilla extract and continue mixing until smooth completely.
Fill the Pie Crust
- Carefully pour the custard mixture into the unbaked pie crust. Avoid spilling because the filling will be very liquid.
Sprinkle Nutmeg
- Sprinkle ground nutmeg evenly across the top. This gives the pie its classic warm flavor and beautiful appearance.
Bake the Pie
- Place the pie into the oven carefully. Bake for fifty minutes until the center looks softly set but slightly wobbly.
Cool the Pie
- Remove the pie from the oven gently. Let it cool completely on a rack before slicing and serving later.
Chill Before Serving
- Place the cooled pie into the refrigerator for one hour. Chilling helps the custard become firm and creamy.
Slice and Enjoy
- Cut the pie into slices carefully. Serve chilled or slightly cool for the best creamy texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a richer custard texture.
- Do not overbake the pie or it may crack.
- Fresh nutmeg gives stronger flavor and aroma.
- Add cinnamon for extra warmth and sweetness.
- Use a homemade pie crust for buttery flavor.
- Let the pie cool fully before slicing.
- Add a little lemon zest for brightness.
- Bake on the lower oven rack for even cooking.
- Cover crust edges with foil if browning too fast.
- Serve with whipped cream for extra sweetness.