Classic Egg Custard Pie Recipe: A Timeless Family Favorite

If you’re anything like me, there’s something magical about the simplicity of a classic dessert that brings back warm, fuzzy memories of family gatherings and cozy kitchen moments. Growing up, my grandmother would whip up her legendary egg custard pie, filling our home with the irresistible aroma of nutmeg and vanilla. It was the kind of treat that made you linger at the table, savoring every creamy bite.

Today, I’m thrilled to share my version of that cherished recipe with you—a Classic Egg Custard Pie that’s as comforting as a hug and as delightful as a sunny afternoon. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a nostalgic treat, this pie is sure to steal your heart. Let’s dive in and create a dessert that feels like a piece of home!

Ingredients:

• 3 whole eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell

Directions:

Prepare the Custard Filling:

1. Gather Your Ingredients with Love: Start by pulling out all your ingredients and letting them sit at room temperature for a bit. This little step ensures they blend smoothly and evenly, just like Grandma used to do. Crack the 3 whole eggs into a large mixing bowl—I love using a glass bowl so I can see the vibrant yellow yolks blending with the whites. Give them a gentle whisk to break the yolks and combine them, feeling the rhythm of the whisk as it moves through the mixture.
2. Add the Sweetness: Gradually sprinkle in the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar while continuing to whisk. Keep going until the sugar dissolves completely, and the mixture looks smooth and slightly frothy—about 1-2 minutes. I can still hear my grandmother’s voice reminding me to be patient here, as this step sets the foundation for that perfect sweetness.
3. Incorporate the Milk: Slowly pour in the 2 cups of whole milk, whisking constantly to keep everything silky and smooth. The milk adds such richness and creaminess, transforming the mixture into something truly special. Take your time to avoid curdling—it’s like nurturing the custard to perfection.
4. Season with Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a warm, aromatic depth that fills the kitchen with nostalgia, and 1 teaspoon of nutmeg for that classic custard spice. I love the way the nutmeg’s nutty warmth dances with the vanilla. Whisk gently until everything is well combined, and take a moment to inhale the heavenly scent—it’s like a preview of the finished pie!
5. Check for Smoothness: Give the mixture a final stir to ensure there are no lumps. If you spot any tiny clumps, don’t worry—just strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve for an extra-smooth filling. I learned this trick from my mom, and it makes all the difference in achieving that velvety texture we all crave.

Assemble and Bake the Pie:

6. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the pie shell. There’s something so satisfying about the hum of the oven, knowing it’s ready to work its magic.
7. Prepare the Pie Shell: Place your unbaked 9-inch pie shell on a baking sheet for easy handling. This not only catches any potential spills but also ensures even baking. If you’re using a store-bought shell, follow any package instructions for blind baking (if recommended), but for this recipe, we’ll bake it with the filling. If you’re making your own crust, make sure it’s chilled—this tip prevents shrinking and keeps it flaky and perfect.
8. Pour the Custard: Carefully pour the custard mixture into the pie shell, filling it almost to the top but leaving a small space to avoid overflow during baking. I always feel a little thrill pouring in that golden liquid, imagining how it’ll transform into a creamy masterpiece.
9. Add a Finishing Touch: Lightly sprinkle an additional pinch of nutmeg over the top of the custard for a beautiful presentation and an extra burst of flavor. It’s like adding a signature flourish to your creation!
10. Bake the Pie: Slide the baking sheet with the pie into the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. The top should have a lovely golden hue, and a knife inserted near the center should come out mostly clean. I love peeking through the oven window, watching the pie transform—it’s like watching a little miracle happen.

Cool and Serve:

11. Cool the Pie: Take the pie out of the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial—it allows the custard to set fully and makes slicing a breeze. For the best results, pop the pie into the refrigerator for an additional hour before serving. I often sneak a taste while it’s cooling, but I won’t tell if you do, too!
12. Slice and Enjoy: Use a sharp knife to cut the pie into wedges—wipe the knife between cuts for clean slices. Serve chilled or at room temperature, dusted with a little extra powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling indulgent. I love sharing this pie with loved ones, watching their faces light up with that first creamy bite.

Tips for Success:

• Nutmeg Note: Freshly grated nutmeg offers the best flavor, but pre-ground nutmeg works well too. I’ve experimented with both, and while fresh nutmeg has a bolder kick, either way, you can adjust the amount to your taste if you prefer a stronger or milder spice.
• Pie Shell Perfection: If you’re making your own pie crust, ensure it’s chilled before filling to prevent shrinking during baking. I’ve had my share of crust mishaps, but this tip always saves the day.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The pie can also be frozen for up to a month—wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. I once froze a slice for a rainy day, and it tasted just as good thawed!

Why You’ll Love This Pie

This Classic Egg Custard Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a connection to cherished memories and simple joys. Its creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and hint of nutmeg make it a perfect ending to any meal or a comforting treat with a cup of coffee. I’ve baked this pie for birthdays, holidays, and quiet evenings at home, and each time, it brings a smile to everyone’s face.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is an invitation to create something truly special. I hope it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.

Enjoy the process of baking and the joy of sharing this delightful pie with those you love. Happy baking!

**Please note that this post may contain affiliate links. When booking through one of our links, we earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running.