If you’re looking for a dessert that delivers cozy nostalgia and gentle elegance in every forkful, look no further than Apple Custard Pie. This is the ultimate treat for those golden afternoons when you crave something sweet, creamy, and just a little bit special. With silky custard weaving its way between tart apple slices, all nestled in a flaky pie crust, this pie brings together classic flavors in the most comforting way. It’s simple enough for weeknight baking, yet sophisticated enough to earn a proud place on any holiday table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great Apple Custard Pie starts with a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a key role. These pantry staples and fresh apples are the magic makers behind the harmony of tartness, sweetness, creaminess, and delicate spice in every bite.
- Unbaked 9-inch Pie Crust: The foundation of your pie, offering a buttery, flaky base for the custard and apples.
- 3 Medium Apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced: Apples provide that juicy, tart, and slightly sweet bite that balances perfectly with the custard.
- ½ Cup Granulated Sugar: Just the right amount of sweetness to complement the apples and vanilla without overpowering the pie.
- 1 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Adds cozy autumn warmth and depth of flavor to both the apples and the custard.
- ¼ Teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: A touch of nutmeg intensifies the pie’s fragrant aroma and flavor.
- ⅛ Teaspoon Salt: Don’t skip it! A dash of salt sharpens all the sweet notes and rounds out the flavors.
- 2 Large Eggs: The backbone of your custard—eggs help set the finished pie into a soft, sliceable texture.
- 1 Cup Whole Milk or Half-and-Half: Gives the custard a smooth, creamy consistency. Use half-and-half for extra richness!
- 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Essential for that sweet, perfumed finish that makes every bite taste like home.
How to Make Apple Custard Pie
Step 1: Prep the Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your unbaked 9-inch pie crust into the pie dish, gently pressing it into place and fluting the edges for a beautiful presentation. A little extra care here ensures a perfect pie base that stays crisp and supports all those lovely fillings.
Step 2: Layer the Apples
Peel, core, and thinly slice your apples—Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are both stellar choices for their tartness and texture. Arrange the slices evenly over the bottom of your prepared crust, overlapping slightly for a pretty look and even distribution. The apples will become tender, but keep some bite beneath the custard’s creaminess.
Step 3: Sprinkle the Spiced Sugar
In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This little mixture will infuse the apples with flavor and perfume your whole kitchen! Sprinkle it evenly over the apples, ensuring every slice gets a dusting of warmth and sweetness.
Step 4: Prepare the Custard
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or half-and-half, if you’re feeling decadent), and vanilla extract until smooth and well-combined. You want this custard dreamy and cohesive. Slowly pour the custard mixture over the sugared apples, letting it fill all the nooks so every bite is creamy.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Place the filled pie on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know your Apple Custard Pie is ready when the custard is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If you notice the crust browning a little too quickly, tent the edges with foil to keep them perfectly golden.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your pie cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour. This allows the custard to firm up beautifully, making slicing easier and ensuring every serving is picture-perfect. Enjoy it at room temperature or chilled, whenever the craving hits!
How to Serve Apple Custard Pie
Garnishes
Elevate each slice of Apple Custard Pie with a dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy finish. A dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream will take things right over the top. For a pop of color, sprinkle a bit of ground cinnamon or add a few thin apple slices on top.
Side Dishes
This pie sings alongside a hot mug of spiced tea or dark coffee. For a festive touch, serve it with a side of warm caramel sauce or roasted pecans. At brunch, it pairs well with fresh fruit or a slice of sharp cheddar for a sweet-and-savory combo that surprises everyone.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at your next gathering, cut the pie into bite-sized bars and arrange them on a platter for easy snacking. Serving for a dinner party? Try layering the pie slices with whipped cream parfait-style in pretty glasses. You can even bake smaller individual pies using muffin tins—everyone gets their own mini Apple Custard Pie!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Apple Custard Pie (if you have any!) can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the crust as crisp as possible, place slices in an airtight container lined with a paper towel. This dessert only gets more flavorful as the custard settles in.
Freezing
If you want to save some pie for later, you absolutely can! Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. Apple Custard Pie will keep in the freezer for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best texture.
Reheating
Enjoy your pie chilled or let slices come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. For a just-baked feel, warm individual pieces in a low oven (about 325°F) for 10-15 minutes. A quick zap in the microwave also works, though the crust may soften slightly—perfect if you like it extra tender!
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought crust for Apple Custard Pie?
Absolutely! Store-bought pie crusts make this recipe even more convenient without sacrificing flavor. If you’re in the mood for a little extra effort, a homemade crust will add a rustic, buttery touch, but don’t hesitate to use what fits your schedule.
What are the best apples to use in this recipe?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are wonderful choices for Apple Custard Pie. Their firmness holds up during baking, and their tart flavor adds the perfect contrast to the creamy custard. Feel free to try a mix for more depth!
Can I make Apple Custard Pie ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the flavors intensify as the pie rests. You can bake it a day in advance, cool completely, and store covered in the refrigerator. Serve the next day either chilled or at room temperature for the perfect finish to any meal.
How do I know when the custard is set?
The best way to check is with the classic knife test: insert a thin knife into the center of the pie. If it comes out clean, the custard is set. If it looks a little wet, bake for another 5–10 minutes, keeping an eye on the crust.
Can I make this pie dairy-free?
You can make Apple Custard Pie dairy-free by substituting the milk or half-and-half with your favorite non-dairy alternative, such as almond milk or coconut milk. Just keep in mind the custard may set a bit differently depending on which milk you choose.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Custard Pie truly is the epitome of simple pleasures: effortless ingredients, unfussy steps, and a reward that feels both homey and indulgent. Whether you bake it for a family gathering or just a cozy treat, you’ll be glad to have a slice (or three) on your table. Don’t wait for a special occasion—give it a try, and let it become a new favorite in your dessert rotation!
Print
Apple Custard Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious combination of sweet apples and creamy custard with this easy-to-make Apple Custard Pie. Perfect for fall baking or any time of year!
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Filling:
- 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the crust: Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and flute the edges.
- Add apples: Arrange the sliced apples evenly in the crust.
- Mix sugar and spices: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, then sprinkle over the apples.
- Prepare custard: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Assemble: Slowly pour the custard mixture over the apples, filling in the gaps.
- Bake: Place the pie on the middle rack and bake for 45 to 50 minutes until set. Cover edges with foil if browning too quickly.
- Cool and serve: Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- This pie is best served chilled or at room temperature.
- You can use a store-bought or homemade crust.
- Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a pretty finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
