Introduction
Indulge in the luscious flavors of a creamy caramel custard pie—a perfect dessert for special occasions or everyday treats. This velvety, rich pie features a smooth caramel custard filling nestled in a flaky crust, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and creaminess.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 tsp salt
2-4 tbsp ice water
For the filling:
1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 large eggs
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
Directions:
Prepare the Crust:
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Continue adding the butter until the butter layer forms and the mixture breaks apart into coarse crumbs. Add the cold water a little at a time until it becomes a dough. Chill for 30 minutes.
Roll out dough, fit it into a pie pan, and pre-bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Make the Caramel Custard Filling:
In a saucepan, melt granulated sugar over medium heat until amber-colored. Carefully whisk in milk and cream, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat.
In a bowl, whisk eggs, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt. Slowly add the caramel mixture, whisking constantly.
Bake the Pie:
Pour filling into the pre-baked crust. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45-55 minutes, until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Cool completely before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips:
You have the option of serving it chilled or at room temperature with whipped cream.
You can keep this in the refrigerator for no longer than 4 days.
Tips for Success:
Avoid overbaking; the custard should be just set with a slight wobble.
Use a water bath to prevent cracks if desired.
Let the pie cool fully before slicing.
Health Benefits:
Provides calcium from dairy.
Contains protein from eggs.
Can be made lighter with reduced-fat milk or alternative sweeteners.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 320
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 25g
Variations and Substitutions:
Crust: Use a graham cracker crust for added sweetness.
Flavor Add-ins: Try cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
Dairy-Free: Substitute plant-based milk and cream alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I make this pie ahead?
Yes, prepare up to 2 days in advance.
How do I prevent the custard from cracking?
Bake in a water bath or monitor baking time closely.
Can I freeze the pie?
Custard pies don’t freeze well; refrigeration is best.
Conclusion:
Creamy caramel custard pie is a classic, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Follow these tips and enjoy a perfect slice every time!