Irresistible Creamy Caramel Custard Pie

 Irresistible Creamy Caramel Custard Pie

A Silky-Smooth Classic with a Golden Crunch That Will Win Hearts at First Bite

If you're searching for a show-stopping dessert that marries the comforting richness of custard with the crisp elegance of caramelized sugar, look no further. This Creamy Caramel Custard Pie is your golden ticket. It’s a refined twist on the classic crème brûlée, nestled into a buttery pie crust, making every slice a celebration of texture and taste. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or indulging in a cozy weekend bake, this pie will become a staple on your dessert table.

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⭐️ Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Recipe

Ultra-creamy custard filling with a perfect balance of sweetness and vanilla

A flaky, golden pie crust that offers the ideal contrast to the smooth interior

A crackly caramelized topping that delivers that signature crème brûlée crunch

Surprisingly simple to make, yet elegant enough to impress

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🛒 Ingredients and Their Purpose

For the Custard Filling:

2 cups (480 ml) whole milk – Provides the creamy base; avoid low-fat milk for best results.

½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the custard and enhances the caramelized top.

3 large egg yolks – Adds richness and helps thicken the custard.

1 tbsp cornstarch – Stabilizes the custard for a firm but silky set.

1 tsp vanilla extract – Infuses the custard with deep, aromatic flavor.

For the Pie Crust:

(Use your favorite homemade or store-bought crust. If making from scratch:)

1¼ cups (160 g) all-purpose flour – Forms the base structure of the crust.

½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter (cold, cubed) – Ensures flakiness.

¼ tsp salt – Enhances overall flavor.

3–5 tbsp ice water – Binds the dough together without activating too much gluten.

For the Caramelized Topping:

2–3 tbsp granulated sugar – Sprinkled on top for a crackly caramelized finish.

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust

1. In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Gradually add ice water, 1 tbsp at a time, mixing until dough just comes together.

3. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.

2. Blind Bake the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and press into a 9-inch pie pan.

3. Trim and crimp edges, then prick the base with a fork.

4. Line with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or beans.

5. Bake for 15 minutes, remove weights, and bake another 5–7 minutes until golden.

6. Let cool completely.

3. Make the Custard

1. In a saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until steaming, not boiling.

2. In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and pale.

3. Temper the yolks by slowly adding the warm milk while whisking constantly.

4. Return the mixture to the saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).

5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

6. Strain the custard through a fine sieve into a bowl to ensure smoothness.

4. Assemble and Chill

1. Pour the warm custard into the cooled pie crust.

2. Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.

5. Caramelize the Topping

1. Just before serving, sprinkle the top evenly with 2–3 tablespoons of sugar.

2. Use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.

(No torch? Place under a hot broiler for 1–2 minutes—watch carefully!)

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💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use full-fat dairy – Skimping on fat affects texture.

Chill thoroughly – Don't rush the setting time; it’s essential for clean slices.

Torch with confidence – Keep the flame moving to avoid burning the sugar.

Use a sieve – Always strain your custard for a luxuriously smooth texture.

Preheat oven fully – An underbaked crust can ruin the balance of the pie.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and tang.

Add a dollop of lightly whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Pair with a strong espresso or dessert wine for an elevated experience.

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📝 Final Thoughts: The Pie That Wins Every Time

This Creamy Caramel Custard Pie is everything a dessert should be—elegant, indulgent, and unexpectedly easy. With its lush vanilla custard, buttery crust, and signature caramelized top, it bridges classic and modern dessert lovers alike. It's a dessert that whispers sophistication but shouts "make me again!"

Whether you're baking for a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe delivers every time. Pin it, print it, bake it—and prepare to impress.

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