Eggnog Cream Pie

The Story Behind the Recipe

Every family has a few recipes that define the holidays — the ones that make the house smell like cinnamon and happiness. For me, Eggnog Cream Pie is one of those special traditions. It’s creamy, dreamy, and brimming with the cozy flavors of nutmeg, vanilla, and a touch of holiday magic.

I still remember sitting at my grandma’s kitchen table as snowflakes danced outside the window. She’d hum to herself, wearing her red apron dusted with flour, while the scent of vanilla and butter filled the air. She’d pour homemade eggnog into her mixing bowl, whisking slowly, and say with a wink, “Patience makes it perfect.”

That’s where I first fell in love with Eggnog Cream Pie — a silky custard-like filling nestled inside a buttery crust, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg. It tasted like Christmas morning and comfort in one bite.

Now, every year when I make this pie, it’s not just dessert — it’s a little taste of home, a little bit of love, and a whole lot of nostalgia. It’s that perfect dessert that looks fancy but feels familiar, the kind that brings families together around the table, even if just for a few quiet, happy moments.

So today, I’m sharing that cozy piece of my family’s holidays with you. Let’s bake a pie that tastes like joy — the Granny’s Lil Kitchen way.

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What Makes This Recipe Special

This Eggnog Cream Pie isn’t just another holiday dessert — it’s a creamy, velvety masterpiece that captures everything we love about the season. Smooth eggnog custard, buttery crust, fluffy whipped topping, and just enough spice to make your heart feel warm.

Here’s why it’s so special:

• No-bake option: Perfect for busy holiday kitchens — you can use a pre-baked crust or graham cracker base.
• Rich and creamy: Silky eggnog custard that sets beautifully without being too dense.
• Warm holiday flavor: Nutmeg, vanilla, and a hint of cinnamon give it that unmistakable Christmas charm.
• Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for prepping before guests arrive — tastes even better chilled overnight.
• Crowd-pleaser: It’s festive, nostalgic, and elegant enough for every holiday table.

This pie is like a warm hug from Christmas past — simple, cozy, and irresistible.

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Ingredients – Fresh, Simple & Full of Flavor

For the Crust

You can use either a traditional pastry crust or a graham cracker crust — both work beautifully.

Option 1: Classic Buttery Pie Crust

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3–4 tablespoons ice water

Option 2: Easy Graham Cracker Crust

• 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers (about 12 full sheets)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons melted butter

Granny’s Tip: For a little extra holiday sparkle, add a pinch of cinnamon to your crust.

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For the Eggnog Filling

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 cups eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

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For the Whipped Cream Topping

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of nutmeg (for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

For Classic Crust:

Combine flour and salt in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until dough forms.

Roll out, fit into a 9-inch pie dish, trim, and crimp the edges. Chill for 30 minutes, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown. Cool completely.

For Graham Cracker Crust:

Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes, then cool completely.

Granny’s Secret: Always cool your crust before adding the filling — it keeps the base crisp and perfect.

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Step 2: Make the Eggnog Filling

In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly whisk in the eggnog until smooth.

In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add about ½ cup of the warm eggnog mixture into the yolks (to temper them), then pour back into the saucepan.

Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens — about 6–8 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.

Remove from heat and whisk in butter, vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

Pour the hot filling into the cooled crust. Smooth the top and press a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) until fully set.

Granny’s Note: That first whiff of nutmeg and vanilla will smell like Christmas memories coming to life.

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Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.

Spread generously over the chilled pie, then dust the top with a light sprinkle of nutmeg.

Granny’s Trick: Don’t rush the whipping — slow and steady makes the creamiest topping.

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Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the finished pie for another 30 minutes before serving to let the layers settle.

Slice with a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts for perfect slices.

Comfort Moment: That first bite — smooth, rich eggnog filling meeting the buttery crust and airy whipped cream — tastes like cozy evenings and Christmas joy.

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Serving Suggestions – What to Pair It With

This Eggnog Cream Pie shines as the star of any holiday table, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides and drinks too.

☕ Cozy & Classic

• Serve with hot coffee or chai latte.
• A small glass of real eggnog for extra cheer.

🥧 Dessert Table Favorites

• Alongside pumpkin pie or pecan tart for variety.
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

🎄 Holiday Magic

• Garnish each slice with cinnamon sticks or sugared cranberries.
• Drizzle a little caramel sauce for extra sparkle.

Granny’s Note: A little dusting of powdered sugar over the top makes it look like fresh snow — simple and beautiful!

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Customization & Variations

This Eggnog Cream Pie is a wonderful base for all sorts of festive twists.

🍫 Chocolate Eggnog Pie

Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the filling for a decadent chocolate version.

🥥 Coconut Eggnog Cream Pie

Add shredded coconut to the crust and sprinkle toasted coconut on top.

🥃 Spiked Holiday Twist

Add 2 tablespoons of rum, brandy, or bourbon to the filling (or 1 teaspoon rum extract).

🍮 Eggnog Mousse Pie

Fold 1 cup of whipped cream into the cooled filling before adding to the crust for an extra fluffy texture.

🍪 Gingersnap Crust

Replace graham crackers with crushed gingersnap cookies for a festive flavor boost.

Granny’s Tip: The secret to the best Eggnog Cream Pie? Chill time. The longer it rests, the silkier and smoother the filling becomes.

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Storing & Reheating

🧊 Storing

Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

⚠️ Freezing

You can freeze the pie (without whipped topping) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then add whipped cream before serving.

Granny’s Trick: Always keep it chilled until serving — that’s what keeps the filling creamy and firm.

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Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.)

(Serves 8–10)

• Calories: 340
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 210mg

Rich, creamy, and full of festive flavor — this Eggnog Cream Pie is indulgence worth every spoonful.

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Reader Q&A – Common Questions

1. Can I use store-bought eggnog?

Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly — just use a creamy, high-quality one.

2. Can I make it with homemade eggnog?

Yes, and it tastes even better! Just strain your eggnog before using to remove any froth.

3. Can I use pre-made crust?

Definitely — a ready-made graham or pastry crust saves time and still tastes amazing.

4. Can I make it alcohol-free?

Of course! Just skip the rum or use rum extract for flavor without the booze.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes — it’s actually best made a day ahead for perfect texture.

6. How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Always cool the crust before adding filling and keep the pie chilled.

7. Can I add whipped cream from a can?

You can, but freshly whipped cream gives a better texture and taste.

8. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes — use gluten-free graham crackers or crust mix.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Make two pies or one deep-dish version — it’s perfect for a crowd.

10. Can I use pudding mix instead of making filling from scratch?

You can use instant vanilla pudding with eggnog instead of milk for a quick shortcut version.

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Final Thoughts 🍽️

There’s something magical about Eggnog Cream Pie — it’s not just a dessert, it’s a feeling. The smooth custard, buttery crust, and that whisper of nutmeg make every bite taste like the holidays themselves.

It’s the kind of pie that brings everyone together — laughter, warmth, and the clink of forks against plates. It’s simple enough for a casual gathering yet beautiful enough for your Christmas centerpiece.

Because in Granny’s Lil Kitchen, desserts are never just about sweetness — they’re about memories, love, and those quiet moments when everything feels right.

So this year, skip the stress and bake this little piece of Christmas joy. With its silky filling and festive flavor, your Eggnog Cream Pie will be the talk of the table — and the taste of your holidays for years to come.

💛 Tried This Recipe?

If you make Eggnog Cream Pie, I’d love to see your festive creations! Tag your photos and follow me on Pinterest at grannyslilkitchen — where every recipe is made with heart, warmth, and a sprinkle of holiday cheer.