Introduction
Imagine a cozy holiday dinner, the aroma of warm spices filling the air, and a creamy, fragrant Cinnamon Pie at the center of the dessert table. This isn’t just any pie; it’s a delightful twist on the usual holiday desserts, bringing together creamy filling, rich spices, and a golden crust. Inspired by the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls and spiced cakes, this Cinnamon Pie Recipe is the perfect addition to any holiday gathering. With a few simple ingredients and our best tips, you’ll be able to create a pie that’s creamy, spiced, and truly irresistible.
Let’s explore the secrets behind creating the ultimate Cinnamon Pie Recipe that’s sure to be a new favorite in your home!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Make-Ahead Friendly: This pie can be made a day in advance, making it a stress-free dessert option for busy holiday meals.
Creamy, Smooth Texture: The filling is made with cream cheese and heavy cream, making it velvety smooth and light.
Warm Holiday Flavors: Packed with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of vanilla, this pie captures the essence of holiday spices.
Easy to Prepare: With a simple ingredient list and minimal steps, this Cinnamon Pie Recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Versatile Crust Options: Whether you use a homemade or store-bought pie crust, this recipe is flexible and delicious either way.
Instructions
Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool entirely on a wire rack after baking before serving. Dust the top with powdered sugar before serving, and add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness if desired.
Preheat the Oven: Set the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat. If using homemade pie dough, roll it out and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges of the crust, then place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and brown sugar. Beat on high with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Add Eggs and Cream: Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add the eggs and egg yolk, mixing thoroughly. Set the mixer to low and gradually add the heavy cream, flour, cinnamon, vanilla extract, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy, ensuring that the spices are fully incorporated.
Assemble the Pie: Pour the cinnamon filling into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake: Bake the pie for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle when shaken. If needed, bake for an additional 5 minutes to ensure it’s fully set.
Nutrition Information
Iron: 1mg
Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 371 kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 123mg
Sodium: 421mg
Potassium: 133mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 27g
Vitamin A: 995 IU
Vitamin C: 0.3mg
Calcium: 116mg
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This gives the Cinnamon Pie Recipe its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a dairy-free cream cheese substitute, though it may alter the texture slightly.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices are the stars of this pie, bringing warmth and flavor. Feel free to adjust the cinnamon to suit your preference, or add a pinch of allspice or ginger for additional spice.
Heavy Cream: The heavy cream adds richness. For a lighter pie, you could substitute half of the cream with milk, but the pie may not be as rich.
Pie Crust: you can use either a homemade crust or a store-bought one. Both work well in this Cinnamon Pie Recipe, so choose whichever option is most convenient for you.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth filling.
- Check for Doneness: When checking if the pie is done, a slight jiggle in the center is normal. If you prefer a firmer pie, bake an additional 5 minutes.
- Cool Completely: Let the pie cool on a wire rack, then chill in the refrigerator if making ahead. This will help the filling set properly.
Variations and Customizations
- Add a Touch of Allspice or Clove: For a deeper spice profile, add a pinch of allspice or clove to complement the cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Serve with Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Create a Crumble Topping: If you’d like a different texture, sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar crumble over the pie before baking.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storage: Wrap leftovers in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to one week. This Cinnamon Pie Recipe holds up well in the fridge, making it easy to enjoy over a few days.
Reheating: Serve cold or let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Cinnamon Pie Recipe pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the pie with the warmth of the spices is perfect alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use store-bought pie crust for cinnamon pie?
Yes, both homemade and store-bought pie crusts work well for this Cinnamon Pie Recipe.
How do I know when the cinnamon pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the center is set but still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken. If needed, bake for an additional 5 minutes.
How should I store cinnamon pie?
Wrap the pie in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to one week.
Related Recipes
- Pumpkin Pie: Another classic holiday pie with warm spices.
- Sweet Potato Pie: A rich and flavorful dessert option.
- Apple Cinnamon Tart: A fruity and spiced dessert that complements any holiday spread.
Conclusion
With its creamy filling, rich spices, and golden crust, this Cinnamon Pie Recipe is a must-try for the holidays. It’s an easy, flavorful dessert that brings the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg to the table, delighting guests with every bite. Give it a try and enjoy a new twist on holiday flavors!
