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Vanilla Cream Pie: A Beginner-Friendly Dessert for Every Occasion

Vanilla Cream Pie

Vanilla Cream Pie is a classic dessert that combines the comforting taste of creamy vanilla custard with a buttery, flaky crust and a dollop of fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to festive celebrations—this beginner-friendly recipe allows you to impress your guests without the stress. The rich and decadent flavor, paired with customizable toppings like fresh berries or chocolate shavings, ensures that this pie is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, holiday, or simply treating yourself, Vanilla Cream Pie is sure to bring joy and satisfaction to your table.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 3–4 tablespoons ice water
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream for whipping
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust by mixing flour and salt in a food processor. Add cold butter until crumbly, then gradually add ice water until dough forms. Wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough into a circle and fit it into a pie plate. Bake until golden brown, about 30 minutes total.
  3. For the custard filling, whisk together milk, cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened.
  4. Temper egg yolks with hot mixture before combining back into the saucepan and cooking until thickened again.
  5. Pour custard into cooled crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  6. Just before serving, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread over chilled custard.
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
  • Calories: 340
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Chill your dough thoroughly for an ideal flaky texture. Use pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste for enhanced flavor. Customize toppings with seasonal fruits or chocolate for added flair.