Vanilla Cream Pie Recipe

Vanilla Cream Pie is a classic dessert, beloved for its silky-smooth vanilla filling and flaky, buttery crust. Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat, this pie is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into small cubes)
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Vanilla Cream Filling:

• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh fruit or grated chocolate (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Pie Crust

1. Prepare the Dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add 1 tablespoon of ice water at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the crust flaky.
2. Chill the Dough:
   Form the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
   Once chilled, roll the dough out on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, trimming any excess dough from the edges. Crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
4. Blind Bake the Crust:
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the pie crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the edges are golden. Remove the weights and parchment paper, then bake for another 5 minutes to fully cook the bottom. Let the crust cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Cream Filling

1. Heat the Milk:
   In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam, but don’t let it boil.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients and Egg Yolks:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. In another small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the egg yolks until combined.
3. Temper the Egg Yolks:
   Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Gradually add more hot milk, then transfer the entire mixture back into the saucepan.
4. Thicken the Cream:
   Cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens into a pudding-like consistency (about 5-7 minutes). Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Chill the Filling:
   Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust and smooth the top. Cover with plastic wrap (press it directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or until set.

Step 3: Make the Whipped Cream Topping

1. Whip the Cream:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
2. Top the Pie:
   Once the pie is set, spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top of the pie. For an extra flourish, garnish with fresh fruit, grated chocolate, or a dusting of cinnamon.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2-4 hours
Total Time: 3-4 hours
Servings: 8

Tips:

• Make Ahead: The pie can be made a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator without the whipped cream, then add the topping just before serving.
• Pie Crust Shortcut: For a quicker version, you can use a store-bought pie crust, but homemade is always better!
• Flavor Twist: Add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the vanilla cream for a more sophisticated flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor. This Vanilla Cream Pie pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce just before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Vanilla Cream Pie! It's a classic treat that's sure to impress!