Creamy Caramel Custard Pie – A Silky Slice of Dessert Heaven
Craving a dessert that melts in your mouth and leaves a lasting impression? This Creamy Caramel Custard Pie is everything a sweet treat should be: smooth, decadent, and beautifully balanced. With its golden, flaky crust and rich caramel-infused custard filling, it’s the perfect dessert for holidays, dinner parties, or anytime you want to serve something that turns heads and satisfies souls.
Ingredients & Their Purpose
For the Crust:
- 1 (9-inch) pre-made pie crust or shortcrust pastry – Acts as the buttery, crisp foundation of the pie.
- ¼ cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – Adds texture and nutty depth to each bite.
For the Caramel Custard Filling:
- 3 large eggs – Bind the custard and give it that classic silky texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and helps create a smooth consistency.
- ½ cup packed brown sugar – Adds a rich, molasses-caramel flavor to enhance depth.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a rich, creamy mouthfeel.
- 1 cup whole milk – Lightens the custard while maintaining creaminess.
- ½ tsp salt – Balances sweetness and sharpens the caramel flavor.
- 1½ tsp pure vanilla extract – Infuses warmth and aromatic flavor.
- ½ cup caramel sauce – Delivers buttery, luscious caramel throughout the pie.
- Extra caramel sauce for drizzling (optional) – For presentation and added indulgence.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish. If using homemade crust, roll it out and press gently into the dish. Sprinkle chopped nuts across the bottom if using.
- Prepare the custard filling: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cream, milk, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the caramel sauce until fully incorporated. The mixture should be silky and cohesive.
- Pour the filling into the crust. Use a spatula to gently even out the surface.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the outer edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Do not overbake—it will firm up as it cools.
- Cool the pie completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving. Slice, serve, and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth magic.
Pro Tip: If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking. For a more luxurious twist, sprinkle sea salt over the caramel drizzle before serving.
Why Everyone Loves This Pie
This pie offers the perfect balance of creamy richness, buttery sweetness, and delicate texture. It’s ideal for anyone who loves crème brûlée, flan, or custard-based desserts, but wants something a little more decadent. The combination of caramel and custard wrapped in a flaky crust is pure comfort and class.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert duo to remember.
- Serve with hot coffee or espresso for a complete dessert course.
- Sprinkle with crushed nuts or flaky sea salt to balance the sweetness.