There’s something downright enchanting about a Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie fresh from the oven. The aroma alone feels like a warm hug—cinnamon dancing through the air, vanilla swirling like a holiday dream. And today, I’m walking you through a recipe that blends nostalgia with gourmet flair, but in a way even your busiest December self can manage.

If you’ve been hunting for a dessert that looks impressive and feels effortless, you’re in the right kitchen. This silky-smooth custard pie hits all the holiday cravings: creamy texture, warm spices, and a festive flavor profile that whispers, “Yes… you did outdo yourself this year.”

Pull up a chair, grab a whisk, and let’s create a little holiday magic together.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie

This pie is the culinary equivalent of wrapping yourself in a soft blanket while watching your favorite holiday movie. It’s comforting, elegant, and unbelievably simple to pull off—even if you’re juggling kids, guests, or a mountain of gift wrapping.

Here’s why it deserves a spot on your holiday table:

It’s bursting with warm holiday spice. Cinnamon and vanilla make this custard feel like it was designed just for Christmas Eve.
The texture is dreamy. Think smooth, silky custard that melts on your tongue.
It’s make-ahead friendly. Meaning you can enjoy your festivities without babysitting a dessert.
It looks stunning with minimal effort. A true hostess win!

And trust me, as someone who has whipped this up for unexpected gatherings (once while my friends were still stomping snow off their boots), it’s a guaranteed showstopper.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust

1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

For the Custard Filling

4 large eggs
¾ cup granulated sugar
1½ cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1½ tsp ground cinnamon (or 1 cinnamon stick, steeped)
2 tsp pure vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean, scraped)
Pinch of salt
Optional holiday upgrades:
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp orange zest

How to Make This Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie

This recipe is all about ease. Follow along step-by-step, and you’ll have a festive masterpiece cooling on your counter in no time.

Step 1: Pre-Bake the Crust

A crisp crust is the foundation of any great custard pie—nobody likes a soggy bottom.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grab your pie crust and roll it into a 9-inch dish.
Line the crust with parchment, add baking weights, and bake for 15 minutes.
Remove parchment and weights, bake 5 more minutes, until lightly golden.
Let it cool just enough to handle the filling later.

Pre-baking keeps that crust crisp and holiday-party ready.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Base

This is where the magic begins—warm milk and cream blending with cinnamon and vanilla to create the heart of your pie.

In a saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium until steaming.
Add cinnamon and vanilla (stick, bean, or extract).
If using whole spices, remove from heat and steep 10 minutes for deeper flavor.
Don’t boil the mixture—it should stay gentle and aromatic, like a holiday candle.

Your kitchen will start smelling like December wrapped in a dessert.

Step 3: Whisk the Eggs & Sugar

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
Mix until the color lightens and everything is smooth.
If adding nutmeg or orange zest, whisk it in now.

The mixture should look silky and slightly pale.

Step 4: Temper & Combine

Tempering is just a fancy way of saying: “Let’s warm the eggs without turning them into scrambled sadness.”

Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly.
Once combined, pour the custard through a fine mesh sieve.

This optional step gives you that ultra-smooth finish we all adore.

Step 5: Fill & Bake

Reduce oven heat to 325°F (160°C).
Pour the custard into the pre-baked crust.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the edges are set but the center has a gentle jiggle.
Don’t overbake, or your pie will crack (and we want holiday magic, not holiday heartbreak).

Step 6: Cool & Chill

This step requires patience, but I promise it’s worth it.

Let the pie cool at room temperature.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Chilling helps the custard set into that perfect velvety texture.

Chef Omar’s Helpful Tips

As your culinary guide, let me share a few nuggets that make this recipe even smoother:

If your custard mixture looks rebellious (little bubbles or froth), don’t panic—once it bakes and chills, it calms right down.
Warm your pie crust slightly before pouring the custard to help it bake evenly.
Use freshly ground cinnamon if you can—it wakes the whole dessert up.
A tiny sprinkle of nutmeg on top before baking gives it that classic Christmas vibe.

The first time I made this pie, I added orange zest on a whim, right before guests walked in. One slice later, the whole room wanted the recipe. Sometimes the best holiday moments happen by accident.

Slice of Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie topped with whipped cream and cinnamon on a festive plate. — A creamy slice of Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon—perfect for holiday dessert lovers.

FAQs About Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie

Can I make this Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! It keeps beautifully for 2–3 days in the fridge, making it ideal for busy holiday schedules.

Can I swap whole milk for a lower-fat option?

You can, but whole milk gives the custard its signature richness. A lighter milk will create a softer set.

How do I prevent cracks in my custard pie?

Bake low and slow, keep an eye on the jiggle, and avoid overbaking. The center should wobble slightly—like a gentle belly laugh.

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Absolutely. It saves time, and with a custard this flavorful, nobody will notice.

What toppings pair well with this Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie?

Whipped cream, powdered sugar, toasted pecans, or even a dusting of cinnamon for extra holiday flair.

A Sweet Final Note

Christmas Eve deserves something warm, inviting, and unforgettable—and this Christmas Eve Cinnamon Vanilla Custard Pie delivers exactly that. With its cozy cinnamon notes, velvety vanilla base, and festive aroma filling your home, it’s the perfect dessert to share with the people you love.

Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or enjoying a quiet evening with family, this pie brings comfort, elegance, and a sprinkle of holiday magic to your table.

Now grab that pie dish, friend—it’s time to create a new Christmas Eve tradition.

Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with joy, spice, and everything nice.

Keep the Holiday Magic Going!

If you’re excited to keep the festive flavors rolling, here are a few delicious ideas your guests will love:

Treat everyone to an irresistible holiday snack with this sweet, crunchy favorite: Christmas Crack.
Add some charm to your dessert table with these beautifully festive Italian Christmas Cookies—perfect for gifting or nibbling.
Planning a full Christmas Eve dinner? Make it unforgettable with this showstopping Christmas Stuffed Beef Tenderloin.
Looking for something lighter but still impressive? This vibrant, flavor-packed Christmas Salmon with Pomegranate Glaze is a gorgeous option for your holiday table.

Each one brings its own sparkle to the season—happy holiday cooking!