Eggnog Pie

Dive into Festive Bliss with Eggnog Pie: A Decadent Symphony of Holiday Flavors

Step into the enchanting world of holiday indulgence with our Eggnog Pie—a dessert that encapsulates the essence of festive cheer in every velvety bite. This culinary masterpiece is a celebration of the classic eggnog, transformed into a rich, luscious pie that’s guaranteed to become the centerpiece of your holiday table. Join us on a journey through the art of creating this delightful treat that combines the familiar warmth of eggnog with the comfort of a perfectly crafted pie.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Filling:

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup eggnog
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Ground nutmeg for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust: Begin your culinary journey by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine gingersnap cookie crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly into a pie dish, creating a decadent crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes until set. Allow it to cool while you move on to the filling.
2. Create the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, eggnog, heavy cream, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and salt. Ensure a smooth and well-incorporated filling that captures the essence of classic eggnog flavors.
3. Pour and Bake: Gently pour the eggnog filling into the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set, and the top has a golden hue. A slight jiggle is acceptable; it will firm up as it cools.
4. Whip Up the Cream Topping: While the pie is cooling, whip together heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This billowy cloud of whipped cream is the perfect finishing touch.
5. Chill and Garnish: Allow the pie to cool completely before transferring it to the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours or overnight. Just before serving, generously dollop the whipped cream on top and dust with ground nutmeg for a festive touch.

Cook Notes:

• To achieve the perfect crust, use the back of a spoon to firmly press the gingersnap cookie mixture into the pie dish.
• For an extra kick, consider adding a tablespoon of rum or bourbon to the filling for a boozy twist.
• Ensure the pie is completely cooled before adding the whipped cream topping to prevent melting.

Variations:

1. Nutty Crunch: Elevate the texture by incorporating a handful of finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the gingersnap crust.
2. Maple Infusion: Infuse a hint of maple flavor by substituting a portion of the granulated sugar in the filling with pure maple syrup.
3. Citrus Zest Delight: Add a burst of freshness by incorporating a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the eggnog filling for a citrusy undertone.

Keto Versions:

• For a keto-friendly crust, replace gingersnap cookie crumbs with a blend of almond flour, melted butter, and a sugar substitute.
• Adjust the filling by using a combination of unsweetened almond milk and heavy cream, and sweeten with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol.

Low-Carb Version:

• Opt for a low-carb gingersnap cookie substitute or almond flour crust.
• Adjust the sweetener in the filling to your preferred low-carb alternative.

As you slice into the Eggnog Pie, let the rich aroma and velvety texture transport you to a place where the spirit of the holidays is embodied in every delectable bite. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a quiet evening by the fire, this pie is a symbol of joy and celebration. The marriage of the familiar eggnog flavors with the comforting embrace of a perfectly crafted pie crust creates a symphony of holiday bliss. So, embrace the season, share the joy, and indulge in the magic of our Eggnog Pie—a culinary celebration that captures the essence of festive warmth.