Name: Delicious French Custard Pie with Apples for Cozy Evenings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 110 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 0.5 cups unsalted butter (chilled); 0.25 cups granulated sugar; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 4 large apples (peeled, cored, and sliced); 0.75 cups granulated sugar; 2 cups milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon butter (dotted on the filling)

The delectable aroma of baked apples mingling with warm vanilla took me back to lazy Sundays at my grandmother’s kitchen table, where dessert was always the crown jewel. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for French Custard Pie with Apples—a charming blend of classic comfort and easy indulgence. This pie not only impresses but also comes together in just about two hours! Whether you’re planning a cozy family gathering or simply want to treat yourself to something special, this pie is a perfect choice. The buttery crust cradles tender, spiced apples, while the silky custard adds a delightful richness. Ready to make your kitchen the heart of the home? Let’s dive in and uncover how to craft this delightful dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why is this pie a must-try?

Unforgettable Flavors: The combination of baked apples and warm vanilla creates a nostalgic aroma that will remind you of cozy family gatherings.

Easy to Make: With just simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you'll feel like a pro.

Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your friends and family with this show-stopping dessert that’s ideal for any occasion.

Perfectly Textured: The buttery crust, tender apples, and creamy custard deliver a charming balance that’s hard to resist.

Time-Efficient: In only about two hours, you can serve up a delightful dessert that tastes like it took all day. Why not pair this pie with a warm cup of coffee or check out our easy chocolate cookie recipe for an extra sweet treat?

French Custard Pie with Apples Ingredients

• You won't want to skip these delightful components!

For the Crust

All-purpose flour – this forms the base, giving the crust its structure.
Unsalted butter – for a rich, flaky texture, make sure to keep it chilled.
Granulated sugar – adds a hint of sweetness to the crust.
Salt – enhances the flavor of the crust.
Large egg – helps bind the dough together for easier handling.

For the Filling

Large apples – choose your favorite type—Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness!
Granulated sugar – balances the tartness of the apples and intensifies their natural flavor.
Milk – creates a creamy base for the custard that envelops the apples.
Vanilla extract – adds warmth and depth to the custard.
Ground nutmeg – a pinch gives a cozy, aromatic spice to the pie.
Ground cinnamon – complements the apples perfectly with its sweet-spicy flavor.
Cornstarch – thickens the custard, ensuring a lovely set.
Lemon juice – brightens the flavor of the apples and prevents browning.

For the Topping

Butter – dotting the filling with butter provides a rich finish as it bakes in.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for French Custard Pie with Apples

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the French Custard Pie with Apples bakes evenly and achieves the perfect golden crust. As the oven warms, take a moment to gather your ingredients, making sure everything is at hand to streamline your cooking process and keep those good vibes flowing.

Step 2: Make the Crust Dough
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsalted butter, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add 1 large egg, and knead gently until it forms a smooth dough. Allow it to rest for a few minutes while you prepare the next steps.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully place the rolled dough into a 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it into the corners. Trim any excess dough with a knife, and dock the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling while baking. This forms a sturdy base for your pie.

Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a separate bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and sliced apples with ¾ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. The sugars and spices will enhance the apples' flavor and ensure a delightful filling. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the surface with small pieces of 1 tablespoon of butter, which will melt during baking to add richness. This thoughtful step is key to achieving a decadent French Custard Pie with Apples that everyone will love.

Step 6: Prepare the Custard
In a medium saucepan, heat 2 cups of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract over medium heat until it just begins to steam—about 5 minutes. Gradually whisk in the remaining ¼ cup of sugar until fully dissolved. This custard will create a creamy layer that envelopes your apples, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the pie.

Step 7: Combine and Bake
Carefully pour the warm custard mixture over the apple filling in the pie crust, ensuring the apples are fully submerged. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the crust turns a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes, and enjoy the irresistible aroma filling your kitchen as it transforms!

Storage Tips for French Custard Pie with Apples

Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool completely before leaving it out. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 day.
Fridge: To keep the pie fresh, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the custard's creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie in an airtight container after it has completely cooled. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: When ready to serve, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until heated through.

French Custard Pie with Apples Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your own magic on this classic pie—there are so many fun ways to tweak it!

Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative.
Caramel Twist: Drizzle some salted caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the custard for a sweet surprise.
Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for an exciting crunch and nutty flavor.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in sliced pears or cranberries for an aromatic fruit medley that'll make your taste buds dance.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Sprinkling cinnamon sugar on top before baking gives an extra sweet and crunchy finish.
Maple Infusion: Replace the sugar in the custard with maple syrup for a subtly sweet flavor that elevates the comfort factor.
Lemon Zest: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of lemon zest in the custard for a refreshing zing that brightens every bite.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of bourbon to the custard for a surprising heat that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.

Feel inspired? This French Custard Pie with Apples is just the beginning! Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy with our flavorful mashed potato recipe to create a memorable meal experience.

What to Serve with French Custard Pie with Apples

Imagine gathering friends and family around the table, savoring joyous conversations and delightful flavors that complement each other beautifully.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the pie's richness and adds a light, fluffy texture to each bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, allowing the warm pie to melt the edges for a heavenly contrast.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel over each slice for a touch of indulgence, elevating both flavor and presentation.
Cinnamon Sugar Dust: Lightly sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for an inviting sweetness that harmonizes with the spiced apples in the pie.
Fresh Berries: Add a refreshing burst of flavor with a side of mixed berries, balancing the pie's creamy richness with their tartness.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, pairs beautifully to cleanse the palate after each heavenly slice.
Sparkling Cider: Serve with sparkling cider for a festive touch that complements the pie's sweetness and makes every bite feel like a celebration.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a delightful dessert duo, consider pairing with homemade chocolate chip cookies, creating an assortment that caters to every sweet tooth.

Expert Tips for French Custard Pie with Apples

Choose Your Apples: Select a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor profile in your pie.
Prevent a Soggy Crust: To avoid a soggy bottom, pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling. This step ensures a crisp texture.
Chill the Dough: For best results, chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This keeps the butter firm, leading to a flakier crust when baked.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the pie in the oven; overbaking can lead to a dry custard. Look for a golden crust and slight jiggle in the filling.
Let it Set: Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to let the custard firm up, making for cleaner slices and easier serving.

Make Ahead Options

These French Custard Pie with Apples are an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the pie crust and apple filling up to 24 hours in advance—simply store the dough wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator and toss the apple mixture in an airtight container. To maintain the quality, keep the apples coated in lemon juice to prevent browning. When you're ready to bake, roll out the crust, layer in the apples, and pour the custard mixture over. Bake as directed, and you’ll serve a delightful dessert that tastes just as fresh as if made that day!

French Custard Pie with Apples Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best French Custard Pie with Apples, I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples. Granny Smith apples add a lovely tartness, while Honeycrisp contributes sweetness. This combination ensures a balanced flavor that’s sure to please everyone!

How should I store leftover pie?
Very good question! If you have any pie left, allow it to cool completely. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This method helps retain the creamy texture of the custard and keeps the flavors fresh for your next indulgent slice.

Can I freeze the French Custard Pie?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, ensure the pie has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container for storage. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and serve at room temperature or warmed up in the oven.

What can I do if my custard doesn't set properly?
If you find that your custard isn't setting well, it could be due to several factors. Always ensure you bake until the custard jiggles slightly but isn’t liquid—usually about 50 minutes at 375°F. If it was too runny, consider adding a bit more cornstarch next time, or ensure your oven's temperature is accurate, as some ovens can run hot or cold.

Can I use a different type of milk for the custard?
Of course! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, but it’s a great way to personalize the pie for dietary needs while still maintaining its deliciousness.

Is this pie safe for pets or children with allergies?
Always a thoughtful question! The French Custard Pie with Apples contains common allergens such as dairy, eggs, and gluten. It's best to keep it away from pets as well, as many ingredients, especially chocolate and cooked apples, can be harmful to them. If serving to children with allergies, please ensure to adapt the recipe with suitable alternatives like egg substitutes or gluten-free flour.