Creamy Caramel Custard Pie Recipe: A Decadent Dessert to Impress!
This luxurious Creamy Caramel Custard Pie brings together three irresistible layers: a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich caramel layer, and a silky custard filling. Perfect for any special occasion or when you want to indulge in something truly delicious.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed digestive biscuits for a slightly different flavor)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – For a touch of sweetness and structure.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Holds the crust together while adding richness.
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup granulated sugar – The star ingredient for a sweet, toasty caramel.
- 1/4 cup water – Helps dissolve the sugar evenly.
- 1/3 cup heavy cream, warmed – Ensures a smooth and creamy caramel.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds silkiness and depth to the caramel.
For the Custard Filling:
- 4 large eggs – Essential for the custard’s creamy, rich structure.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the custard just enough.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess) – The base of the custard.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
Optional Garnishes:
- Whipped cream
- Shaved chocolate
- Caramel drizzle
How to Make Creamy Caramel Custard Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie pan, ensuring the bottom and sides are evenly covered.
- Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves.
- Once the sugar dissolves, stop stirring. Let the mixture boil undisturbed until it turns a deep amber color, about 8–10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the warmed heavy cream and butter (be cautious—it will bubble up). Stir until smooth.
- Pour the caramel evenly over the cooled crust and place it in the fridge to set while preparing the custard filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Custard Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm (do not let it boil). Gradually whisk the warm milk into the egg mixture to temper it, preventing the eggs from curdling.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Remove the crust with the caramel layer from the fridge. Pour the custard mixture over the caramel layer.
- Place the pie pan in a larger baking dish and pour hot water into the dish, filling it halfway up the sides of the pie pan. This water bath helps prevent cracks in the custard as it bakes.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 40–50 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
- Carefully remove the pie from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 2–3 hours, or until fully chilled and set.
Serving Suggestions
- Slice the pie and serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Garnish with shaved chocolate, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The velvety custard and gooey caramel layer create a match made in dessert heaven.
- Elegant Yet Simple: It looks impressive but is easy to make with step-by-step instructions.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this pie a day in advance, making it perfect for dinner parties or holiday gatherings.
Pro Tips for Success
- Caramel Caution: Keep a close eye on the caramel while cooking—it can go from perfect to burnt in seconds.
- No Cracks in Custard: Always use a water bath when baking custard-based pies to ensure a smooth texture and prevent cracking.
- Quality Vanilla: Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor—it’s worth the investment!
This Creamy Caramel Custard Pie is a show-stopping dessert with its buttery crust, luscious caramel, and silky custard. Each bite offers a heavenly blend of textures and flavors, making it the perfect treat to share with family and friends—or to keep all to yourself! 🥧✨