The holiday season brings its own special warmth, and nothing embodies that cozy spirit quite like eggnog brulee pie. This delicious recipe is not only festive but also easy to make, allowing you to rejoice in the season without spending hours in the kitchen. Picture a creamy filling infused with eggnog flavor, nestled within a flaky crust and topped with a sweet caramel-like layer. It’s a delightful treat that family and friends will savor, making it an instant favorite for gatherings.
What makes this pie special is the luscious texture and comforting flavor that’s reminiscent of holiday celebrations. Perfect for a festive dinner or a cozy evening at home, this eggnog brulee pie will be the star of your dessert table.
Why you’ll love eggnog brulee pie
- Rich and creamy filling that’s truly indulgent.
- A perfect centerpiece dessert for holiday gatherings.
- Simple ingredients with an impressive presentation.
- Can be made ahead for easy entertaining.
- A seasonal twist on a classic dessert.
What ingredients do I need for eggnog brulee pie?
- One 9″ frozen deep dish pie crust (at room temperature)
- 4 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 3/4 cup granulated white sugar
- 4 Tablespoons butter (melted)
- 2¼ cups full-fat eggnog
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
Ingredient notes & swaps:
- Cornstarch: Thickens the filling; you can substitute with arrowroot starch if needed.
- Eggnog: Ensure to use a full-fat version for a richer taste.
- Frozen pie crust: A convenient option; homemade can be used if preferred.
How do I make eggnog brulee pie step-by-step?
Making eggnog brulee pie is straightforward and ensures an impressive outcome. Follow these steps:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place the frozen pie crust on top to catch any drips. Prick small holes in the bottom and sides of the crust to prevent air bubbles.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until slightly set, then remove it from the oven but keep it on.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk the cornstarch and sugar together until it’s smooth. Gradually whisk in the melted butter, eggnog, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 5-7 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top.
- Pour melted butter over the filling and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes. Then, broil for 1 minute to achieve a golden, bubbly topping.
- Let the pie cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 1 hour to set.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the broiler, as it can quickly go from golden brown to burnt!
How should I serve it?
Eggnog brulee pie is best served after it’s chilled and set, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with a warm cup of spiced cider or coffee for a delightful dessert experience.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
You can easily make this pie a day in advance, allowing it to chill overnight for optimal flavor. Store it covered in the refrigerator. If you want to reheat it, simply place it in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes to warm through without softening the crust too much.
How do I fix common issues?
If you encounter any issues, here are some quick fixes:
- Dry filling: If the filling turns out too dry, you might have cooked it too long. Adjust the cooking time next time.
- Soggy crust: Ensure you pre-bake the crust sufficiently; using pie weights can help.
- Bland flavor: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of salt or more nutmeg to the custard.
What variations can I try?
Feel free to personalize your eggnog brulee pie! Consider adding a splash of rum or bourbon to the eggnog for a boozy twist. You could also incorporate chopped nuts for a bit of crunch or a layer of dark chocolate beneath the filling for added richness.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat eggnog?
Using low-fat eggnog can yield a less creamy filling, but it’s perfectly doable if you prefer a lighter option.
Can I freeze eggnog brulee pie?
While you can freeze it, it’s best to enjoy this pie fresh to fully appreciate the texture and flavor. If you must freeze, do so before adding the topping.
What if I don’t have nutmeg?
If you lack nutmeg, cinnamon makes a great substitute, giving the pie a slightly different yet still festive flavor profile.
Eggnog Brulee Pie
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place the frozen pie crust on top to catch any drips. Prick small holes in the bottom and sides of the crust to prevent air bubbles.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until slightly set, then remove it from the oven but keep it on.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk the cornstarch and sugar together until it’s smooth.
- Gradually whisk in the melted butter, eggnog, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 5-7 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top.
- Pour melted butter over the filling and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes. Then, broil for 1 minute to achieve a golden, bubbly topping.
- Let the pie cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 1 hour to set.