Vanilla Cream Pie Dessert is a timeless classic that never fails to delight the senses. As I take a bite of this luscious treat, I am instantly transported to family gatherings where laughter and joy filled the air, and this pie was always the star of the dessert table. With its rich, velvety filling and a buttery, flaky crust, Vanilla Cream Pie Dessert has a special place in the hearts of many, evoking memories of cherished moments shared with loved ones.
This delightful dessert is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a testament to the art of baking. The creamy texture combined with the subtle sweetness of vanilla creates a harmonious balance that keeps people coming back for more. Whether served at a holiday celebration or as a simple weeknight indulgence, Vanilla Cream Pie Dessert is loved for its convenience and the way it brings comfort to any occasion. Join me as we explore the steps to create this delectable pie that is sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 3/4 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
- Chocolate shavings or fresh fruit for garnish (optional)
Preparing the Vanilla Cream Filling
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients**: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt until well combined. This will ensure that there are no lumps in your filling. 2. **Add Milk**: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, making sure to incorporate it smoothly into the dry mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture. 3. **Heat the Mixture**: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously with a wooden spoon or a whisk. It’s important to keep stirring to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning. 4. **Thicken the Filling**: As the mixture heats up, it will begin to thicken. Continue stirring until it reaches a gentle boil. Once it starts boiling, keep stirring for an additional 2 minutes. You’ll notice it becoming a custard-like consistency. 5. **Temper the Egg Yolks**: In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. To temper them, slowly add about a cup of the hot milk mixture to the yolks while whisking constantly. This step prevents the yolks from scrambling when added to the hot mixture. 6. **Combine Everything**: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Stir well to combine. 7. **Cook Again**: Return the saucepan to the heat and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens further and starts to bubble again. 8. **Add Butter and Vanilla**: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the unsalted butter and the 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract until the butter is fully melted and incorporated. This will add richness and flavor to your filling. 9. **Cool the Filling**: Transfer the filling to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.Preparing the Whipped Cream Topping
10. **Chill Your Equipment**: For the best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before whipping the cream. This helps the cream whip up faster and hold its shape better. 11. **Whip the Cream**: In the chilled bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Start mixing on low speed, gradually increasing to medium-high speed. 12. **Add Sugar and Vanilla**: Once the cream starts to thicken, add the powdered sugar and the teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue whipping until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as this can turn the cream into butter.Assembling the Pie
13. **Prepare the Pie Crust**: If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, follow the package instructions for pre-baking. If you’re making a homemade crust, roll it out and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Bake according to your recipe, usually at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Allow it to cool completely. 14. **Fill the Pie Crust**: Once the vanilla cream filling has cooled and thickened, pour it into the cooled pie crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. 15. **Top with Whipped Cream**: Spoon the whipped cream over the vanilla filling, spreading it out evenly. You can use a piping bag for a decorative touch if you like. 16. **Garnish**: If desired, sprinkle chocolate shavings or fresh fruit on top of the whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance and flavor. 17. **Chill the Pie**: Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until you’re ready to serve. This allows
Conclusion:
In summary, this Vanilla Cream Pie Dessert is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a sweet, creamy treat that’s both simple to make and utterly delicious. The velvety vanilla filling, combined with a buttery crust, creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a dinner party, or simply indulging yourself on a cozy evening at home, this pie is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider topping your Vanilla Cream Pie with freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or fresh berries for an extra touch of elegance. You can also experiment with variations by adding a hint of lemon zest for a citrus twist or incorporating a layer of chocolate ganache for a decadent chocolate-vanilla combination. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of creating something so delightful. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your beautiful pie. Let’s spread the love for this Vanilla Cream Pie Dessert together! Happy baking! Print
Vanilla Cream Pie Dessert: A Delightful Recipe for Every Occasion
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in a classic Vanilla Cream Pie with a rich, creamy filling in a flaky crust, topped with luscious whipped cream. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 3/4 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
- Chocolate shavings or fresh fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk until smooth.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.
- Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and reaches a gentle boil. Boil for an additional 2 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly add about a cup of the hot milk mixture to the yolks while whisking constantly.
- Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan and stir well.
- Return to heat and cook for another 2-3 minutes until thickened and bubbling.
- Remove from heat and stir in the unsalted butter and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until melted.
- Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
- In the chilled bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream and mix on low, gradually increasing to medium-high speed.
- Once thickened, add powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whip until soft peaks form.
- Pre-bake the pie crust according to package instructions or your recipe, then cool completely.
- Pour the cooled vanilla cream filling into the pie crust and spread evenly.
- Spoon the whipped cream over the filling and spread evenly.
- Optionally, sprinkle with chocolate shavings or fresh fruit.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- You can customize the pie by adding different flavors to the whipped cream or using flavored extracts in the filling.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
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