Name: Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust; 3 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like warm hugs from grandma’s kitchen, this Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe is a must-try. Combining silky-smooth custard with a tender pie crust and a whisper of nutmeg, this pie is pure nostalgia and simple comfort in every bite. Whether you’re new to custards or seeking a slice of classic Americana, this pie delights with every delicate wobble and creamy forkful. There’s just something irresistible about a dessert that lets a handful of staples shine!

Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s easy to fall in love with recipes that keep it simple, and this Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe does just that. Each ingredient brings its own special role: richness, sweetness, creaminess, and that subtle, spiced allure on top. Here’s what goes into creating that signature custard magic:

Unbaked 9-inch pie crust: The sturdy, buttery foundation that bakes up golden and flaky, supporting the creamy custard filling without getting soggy.
Large eggs: These are the heart of the custard, giving it structure, color, and luscious, silky texture.
Whole milk: For the creamiest and dreamiest filling, whole milk is essential; it balances richness without making the pie too heavy.
Granulated sugar: Sweetness with a clean finish, sugar highlights all the comforting flavors of vanilla and egg.
Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon lends delightful warmth and classic aroma to the custard.
Salt: A subtle pinch enhances every flavor, letting the custard dance on your taste buds.
Ground nutmeg: The essential finish—freshly grated, if possible—for that gentle spice and traditional fragrance wafting from each slice.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place an unbaked 9-inch pie crust into your pie dish, pressing it into the corners and crimping the edges as fancily or as simply as you prefer. This step creates the base for that glorious custard, so take a moment for the thick, crimped edges—they not only look pretty, but help hold in every creamy bite.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard Filling

In a medium-sized bowl, crack in three large eggs and whisk until they’re smooth and golden. Then, add the granulated sugar and salt, whisking well to dissolve any granules. Pour in the whole milk and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is cohesive and just a little frothy. This is where the classic custard begins to take shape, blending sweetness, richness, and that gorgeous vanilla aroma.

Step 3: Fill the Crust and Sprinkle Nutmeg

Pour your custard mixture gently into the prepared pie crust, letting it settle smoothly. Take your ground nutmeg and sprinkle it evenly over the top—for tradition’s sake, don’t skip this step! That nutmeg layer gives the Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe its unmistakable flavor and classic finishing touch.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Carefully slide your pie into the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The edges should look set, but the center will still have a slight jiggle if you nudge the pan. To check for doneness, insert a knife near the center—the pie is ready if the knife comes out clean. Don’t overbake, or the texture can get a bit rubbery and cracks may form.

Step 5: Cool and Set

Once the pie is baked, set it on a wire rack to cool completely. This step allows the custard to finish setting and develop its creamy consistency. For best results, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving. It’s hard to wait, but totally worth it for that perfect custard set.

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe

Garnishes

A gentle dusting of powdered sugar makes each slice feel extra special. You can also top with a few fresh berries—think sliced strawberries, raspberries, or plump blueberries—for a pop of color and brightness that pairs beautifully with the mellow custard.

Side Dishes

This pie truly shines on its own, but if you’re serving for a special occasion, pair it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more classic finish, a cup of strong coffee or hot tea is the perfect companion, balancing the creamy sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Dress slices with candied citrus zest or lightly caramelized nuts for a festive twist. Or cut into petite bites and serve on a platter for a vintage dessert buffet. Mini custard pies are charming for parties and turn the Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe into an irresistible finger food treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and set, any leftovers should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and stored in the refrigerator. The Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe will keep beautifully for up to three days, and the flavors actually get deeper and richer after an overnight chill.

Freezing

Need to plan ahead? This pie freezes well! Wrap leftover slices (or the whole pie) tightly with plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to one month. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator for easy, fuss-free dessert whenever you crave it.

Reheating

If you prefer your pie slightly warm, simply let it sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes, or warm individual slices for 10-15 seconds in the microwave. Be careful not to overheat—just enough to take the chill off and revive that silky custard texture.

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Absolutely! A high-quality store-bought crust works perfectly and makes assembling the Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe even easier. If feeling ambitious, a homemade pie crust adds a wonderful personal touch.

Why is my custard pie cracking on top?

Cracks usually mean the pie was overbaked or the oven ran a bit hot. For best results, bake until the edges are set but the center still jiggles—it will firm up as it cools.

Can I swap in low-fat or non-dairy milk?

Whole milk ensures the richest and creamiest custard, but you can use 2 percent milk in a pinch—just expect a slightly less luscious result. Non-dairy milks don’t set quite the same way, so if you try it, stick with creamy options like oat or cashew.

Is nutmeg essential?

The fragrant sprinkle of nutmeg is the classic finish for an Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe, but if you’re not a fan, a dash of cinnamon or a little lemon zest adds a lovely twist!

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The pie is finished when the edges are set and only a slight jiggle remains in the center. A knife inserted near the middle should come out clean—this ensures the custard is fully cooked but still delicate.

Final Thoughts

If comfort, tradition, and simple pleasures speak to your soul, don’t miss giving this Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe a spot in your dessert rotation. Every dreamy bite is a reminder of how the simplest ingredients can create something truly special—so roll up your sleeves and make some sweet memories!

Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 slices 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of this classic Old-Fashioned Custard Pie. A rich and velvety custard filling nestled in a flaky pie crust, this dessert is a comforting treat that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

Scale

Pie Crust:

1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

Custard Filling:

3 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the crust: Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges.
Mix the filling: In a medium bowl, whisk eggs until smooth. Add sugar, salt, milk, and vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
Fill the crust: Pour the custard mixture into the pie crust. Sprinkle nutmeg on top.
Bake: Bake for 45–55 minutes until set. Let cool and refrigerate before serving.