Indulge in the luxurious taste of a silky, smooth cream pie that melts in your mouth with every bite. Perfectly balanced with a buttery crust, velvety filling, and a whipped cream topping, this dessert is a showstopper for any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this cream pie recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs or vanilla cookie crumbs
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (30g) cornstarch
- 5 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
- 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons (25g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Optional: Chocolate shavings or toasted coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let the crust cool completely.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch.
- Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it begins to thicken.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add a ladle of the hot milk mixture to temper the yolks, whisking continuously.
- Return the tempered yolks to the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens further and reaches a pudding-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Whip the Topping:
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled pie.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chocolate shavings, toasted coconut, or your favorite toppings.
- Slice and serve chilled for a dessert everyone will adore.
Enjoy the luscious and timeless flavors of this classic cream pie!