Eggnog Pie – A Festive Delight for Any Occasion
Short introduction
Eggnog pie is a delightful dessert that takes the traditional holiday drink and turns it into a creamy, rich pie. With a gingerbread crust and a spiced eggnog filling, this dessert captures the festive spirit and flavor of the season. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, winter celebrations, or simply to enjoy at home with family. Plus, it’s relatively easy to make and sure to impress your guests!
Why you’ll love it
This eggnog pie is not only delicious but also offers a unique twist on classic holiday flavors. The benefits of making this pie include:
- Crowd-pleaser: The festive flavors of eggnog are loved by many, making it a great choice for any gathering.
- Versatile dessert: It can be served at Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any winter celebration.
- Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create this lovely pie.
- Rich in flavor: The combination of spices and a creamy filling creates a deliciously satisfying dessert.
Ingredients
To make this lovely eggnog pie, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Gingerbread Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (255 grams)
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter (softened) (70 grams)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsulfured molasses
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp salt
For the Eggnog Filling:
- 2 1/2 tsp gelatin powder (7 grams, 0.25 oz)
- 1/4 cup water (divided)
- 1 cup eggnog (240 ml)
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened) (226 grams)
- 1 can 14 oz. Eagle Brand® Sweetened Condensed Milk (396 grams)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 3 tbsp water (45 ml)
- 6 tbsp granulated sugar (divided) (74 grams)
- 1/3 cup cranberries (35 grams)
Substitutions & key variations
Feel free to make a few substitutions based on your preferences:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.
- Dairy-Free: Swap eggnog with a non-dairy version and use dairy-free cream cheese.
- Sweetness Control: Adjust the sweetness by using less sugar or a sugar alternative in the filling.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Make the Gingerbread Crust
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, cloves, and baking soda together.
- Add the softened butter and brown sugar, then mix until crumbly.
- Stir in the molasses, egg, and salt until a dough forms.
- Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of a pie dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or until golden. Let it cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Eggnog Filling
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup of water. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to soften.
- In another bowl, combine the eggnog, softened cream cheese, and condensed milk.
- Heat the gelatin mixture until dissolved, then add it to the eggnog mixture along with lemon juice, vanilla extract, and spices.
- Blend until smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
Step 4: Sugared Cranberries
- Combine 3 tablespoons of water and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar in a saucepan to create a simple syrup. Heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Toss the cranberries in the syrup and then roll them in sugar to coat.
- Let the cranberries dry on a wire rack.
Success tips
- Temperature: Ensure all your filling ingredients, especially the cream cheese, are at room temperature for a smooth consistency.
- Texture: Do not over-mix the eggnog filling; blend just until smooth to avoid a grainy texture.
- Common mistakes: Be careful not to let the gelatin mixture boil; it should just be warmed enough to dissolve.
How to serve
Slice the eggnog pie into wedges and serve chilled. Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with sugared cranberries for an added festive touch. This will make your presentation stunning!
Storage & reheating
Store the eggnog pie covered in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. Avoid freezing it, as the texture may change upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make eggnog pie ahead of time?
A: Yes! This pie is perfect for make-ahead desserts. You can prepare it a day or two in advance.
Q2: Can I use store-bought crust instead?
A: Absolutely! A pre-made pie crust can save you time, and it will still taste delicious.
Q3: What can I use instead of gelatin?
A: You can try using agar-agar or a pudding mix for thickening if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
This pie is a rich dessert, combining traditional eggnog flavors with a creamy texture. It’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially if watching caloric intake during the holiday season.
Conclusion
Eggnog pie is a fun, festive dessert that transforms the beloved holiday drink into a delicious treat. It’s easy to make, looks impressive, and tastes even better when shared with loved ones. Give this recipe a try and bring some extra joy to your holiday celebrations!
