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Old Fashioned Custard Pie

A classic dessert filled with warm flavors and creamy texture, perfect for family gatherings or a relaxing night at home.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1/2 cup butter (softened)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (can replace with white sugar)
  • 1 large egg yolk (binds the crust)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (use the same as custard)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (don’t overmix)
  • 1 cup rolled oats (quick oats may be used)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (a pinch balances sweetness)
  • 2-3 tablespoons water (added gradually)
For the custard filling
  • 3 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 large egg yolk (adds richness)
  • 2 cups whole milk (for custard base)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (substitute with half-and-half if needed)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (fresh preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (adjust to preference)
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves (use sparingly)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (substitutable with vanilla bean paste)

Method
 

Preparation of the Crust
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and brown sugar. Mix well until creamy.
  2. Add in the egg yolk and vanilla extract, stirring until combined.
  3. Gradually mix in flour, oats, and salt until just mixed.
  4. If the dough is too dry, add water a tablespoon at a time until it holds together.
Baking the Crust
  1. Press the dough into a pie dish evenly across the bottom and up the sides.
  2. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
  4. Remove from oven and set aside.
Making the Custard Filling
  1. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, sugar, milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Assembling the Pie
  1. Pour the custard mixture into the pre-baked crust and ensure it is evenly distributed.
Baking the Pie
  1. Return the pie to the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
  2. Remove from oven and allow to cool.

Notes

Make sure your eggs are at room temperature to get a smoother filling. Use fresh nutmeg for the best flavor. Don’t overmix the crust dough; it should just come together for a flaky texture. Keep an eye on the pie while baking, as ovens can vary in temperature.