Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe
A timeless dessert with rich flavor and simple ingredients
Ever crave a dessert that tastes like home? This Old-Fashioned Custard Pie is pure comfort in every bite. Creamy, lightly sweetened custard cradled in a flaky pie crust—this classic recipe brings back memories of Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, and handwritten recipe cards tucked in kitchen drawers. With just a few pantry staples and a little love, you can create a heartwarming dessert that's perfect for any occasion.
Whether you're serving it at Thanksgiving, enjoying a slice with coffee, or just looking for a simple, budget-friendly dessert, this custard pie delivers cozy satisfaction and unbeatable value. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dessert for busy families or anyone cooking on a schedule.
Ingredients
For one 9-inch pie (8 servings):
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1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
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3 large eggs, beaten
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3/4 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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2 1/2 cups whole milk
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (for topping)
Prep & Cook Time
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Bake Time: 35–45 minutes
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Cooling Time: 2 hours
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Total Time: About 3 hours
Equipment Needed
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9-inch pie plate
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Mixing bowl
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Whisk
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Saucepan
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Baking sheet (optional for easier transfer)
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Wire rack
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate. -
Mix the Custard Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, salt, and vanilla until slightly frothy. -
Warm the Milk:
In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s just about to simmer (do not boil). This helps blend it smoothly into the egg mixture. -
Temper the Eggs:
Slowly pour a bit of the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. Gradually add the rest, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. -
Assemble the Pie:
Pour the custard filling into the prepared pie crust. Set the pie on a baking sheet for easier handling, if desired. -
Bake:
Sprinkle ground nutmeg over the top and bake for 35–45 minutes. The edges should be set and the center slightly jiggly. A knife inserted near the edge should come out clean. -
Cool Completely:
Remove from the oven and place on a wire rack. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to set. -
Serve Chilled:
Slice, serve, and enjoy the creamy nostalgia.
Notes & Tips
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Best Milk to Use: Whole milk gives the richest texture, but you can use 2% in a pinch.
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Crust Options: Store-bought crusts save time, but homemade pie dough adds even more flavor.
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Spice It Up: Swap nutmeg for cinnamon if preferred, or add a pinch of both for a cozy twist.
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Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Classic, nostalgic taste
✅ Minimal ingredients, big flavor
✅ Affordable and quick to make
✅ Great for holidays, brunch, or family gatherings
✅ Delicious cold from the fridge
Old-Fashioned Custard Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, salt, and vanilla.
- Heat milk until just simmering, then slowly whisk it into the egg mixture to temper.
- Pour the custard mixture into the pie crust.
- Sprinkle nutmeg on top and bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool on a wire rack, then refrigerate until fully set.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes