There’s something deeply comforting about a slice of Old-Fashioned Custard Pie — golden, silky, and subtly sweet, with a flaky crust that melts in your mouth.
This classic dessert has been passed down through generations — served at church suppers, holiday tables, and summer picnics across America.
And the best part?
👉 It’s made with just 6 simple ingredients — eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and a homemade or store-bought pie crust.
No fancy tools.
No complicated steps.
Just pure, creamy nostalgia in every bite.
Let’s dive into how to make this beloved family favorite — and why it might just become your go-to easy dessert.
🍽️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
☕ Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a dollop of whipped cream.
🧑🍳 Easy Old-Fashioned Custard Pie Recipe
🍴 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
3 large eggs
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups (480ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
🌿 For gluten-free: Use a GF pie crust.
🥛 Dairy-free option: Try full-fat canned coconut milk (flavor will be slightly
Home🥧 Old-Fashioned Custard Pie – Creamy, Dreamy & Perfectly Simple!
🥧 Old-Fashioned Custard Pie – Creamy, Dreamy & Perfectly Simple!
🍴 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
3 large eggs
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups (480ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
Kitchen scales
🌿 For gluten-free: Use a GF pie crust.
🥛 Dairy-free option: Try full-fat canned coconut milk (flavor will be slightly tropical).
🍳 Instructions
Preheat oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Whisk the filling
In a large bowl, beat eggs lightly.
Add sugar, salt, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
Gradually stir in milk — don’t overbeat (to prevent bubbles).
Pour into crust
Place pie crust on a baking sheet (in case of spills).
Slowly pour custard mixture into the crust.
Bake slowly
Bake for 40–50 minutes, until edges are set and center jiggles slightly (like Jell-O).
Avoid overbaking — it can cause cracks or curdling.
Cool completely
Let cool on a wire rack for 2 hours.
Chill in the fridge for 2+ hours before serving (helps set texture).
Serve
Sprinkle with ground nutmeg if desired.
Slice with a wet knife for clean cuts.
🔥 Pro Tip: Place a pan of water on the lower rack to create steam — helps prevent cracking!
✅ Tips for the Best Results
Don’t overmix
Prevents air bubbles and cracks
Use room-temperature milk
Helps blend smoothly with eggs
Cool slowly
Reduces condensation and surface cracks
Store covered in fridge
Stays fresh for up to 4 days
Freeze slices
Wrap tightly — lasts up to
3 months
🔄 Easy Variations to Try
Nutmeg Upgrade
Add ¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg for warmth
Brown Sugar Version
Swap granulated sugar for brown sugar — richer flavor
Maple Custard Pie
Replace sugar with ⅔ cup maple syrup
Mini Pies
Bake in muffin tins for cute individual servings
Crustless Option
Grease dish well — great for low-carb diets
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I use skim milk?
Yes — but whole milk or half-and-half gives the creamiest texture.
❓ Why did my pie crack?
Usually from overbaking or cooling too quickly. Steam pan helps!
❓ Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely! Bake 1–2 days in advance — tastes even better the next day.
❓ Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes! Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze. Thaw overnight in fridge.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a long list of ingredients to make a dessert that feels like home.
With Old-Fashioned Custard Pie, you get all the flavor, simplicity, and comfort — in a dish that’s effortless to make and impossible to resist.
So next time you're looking for a little sweetness…
skip the boxed mix.
Make this instead.
Because the best pies aren’t flashy —
they’re creamy, humble, and shared with someone who matters. 💛