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Creamy Caramel Custard Pie

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### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Caramel:**
Start by making the caramel. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar has dissolved. Then, allow the mixture to come to a boil, and cook without stirring for about 5-7 minutes until the sugar turns a deep amber color.

Once the caramel has reached the desired color, carefully add the heavy cream. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble up. Stir until smooth and the caramel has fully incorporated into the cream. Add the butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, and stir until the butter is melted and the caramel is smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

#### 2. **Prepare the Custard:**
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Gradually pour in the slightly cooled caramel sauce, whisking constantly to ensure the caramel doesn’t harden or curdle the eggs. The caramel should blend seamlessly into the custard mixture, creating a rich, velvety filling.

#### 3. **Assemble the Pie:**
If you’re using a pre-made pie crust, fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. If you’re using a homemade pie crust, make sure it’s fully baked and cooled before assembling the pie. Pour the custard and caramel mixture into the prepared pie crust, filling it almost to the top.

#### 4. **Bake the Pie:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. You can check the custard’s doneness by gently shaking the pie—if the center moves but the edges are firm, it’s ready. Be careful not to overbake, as the custard may curdle.

#### 5. **Cool and Chill:**
Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. Chilling the pie allows the custard to set completely and enhances the flavor.

#### 6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Once chilled, slice the pie into wedges and serve. For an extra touch of elegance, you can drizzle some additional caramel sauce over the top or garnish with whipped cream or fresh berries. The pie’s smooth custard and sweet caramel will pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.

### Tips for Perfect Creamy Caramel Custard Pie

– **Be Careful When Making the Caramel:** When making caramel, the sugar can burn quickly, so keep a close eye on it and avoid stirring once the sugar starts boiling. If the caramel turns too dark or burns, it may taste bitter, so aim for a deep amber color.
– **Strain the Custard:** To ensure the custard is perfectly smooth, consider straining the mixture before pouring it into the pie crust. This will remove any small bits of cooked egg or curdled milk, resulting in a silky texture.
– **Chill the Pie Well:** This pie needs time to set in the fridge. The custard will firm up and develop a richer flavor if it chills for several hours or overnight, so plan accordingly.
– **Make the Caramel in Advance:** If you’re short on time, you can make the caramel ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before adding it to the custard.

### Why Creamy Caramel Custard Pie Works So Well

This pie is a beautiful balance of textures and flavors, making it an unforgettable dessert. The caramel adds a deep, warm sweetness, while the custard provides a smooth, creamy base that’s not too heavy. The buttery pie crust gives each bite a satisfying crunch, complementing the softness of the filling. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet comforting, making it perfect for any celebration or special meal.

The caramel and custard filling is also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking, adding more or less caramel depending on your taste. The richness of the custard and the complexity of the caramel create a flavor profile that is both familiar and new, making each bite a delightful experience.

### Pairing Creamy Caramel Custard Pie

While this pie is delicious on its own, you can pair it with a few simple accompaniments to enhance the experience:

– **Whipped Cream:** A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice adds a light, airy contrast to the richness of the pie.
– **Fresh Berries:** The tartness of fresh berries like raspberries or blackberries complements the sweetness of the caramel, adding a refreshing balance to the dessert.
– **Coffee or Tea:** Pair your pie with a warm beverage like a cup of coffee or a light herbal tea. The slight bitterness of coffee or the mild notes of tea will balance the sweetness of the pie.

### Conclusion: A Decadent Dessert for Any Occasion

**Creamy Caramel Custard Pie** is a show-stopping dessert that brings together the best of caramel and custard in one smooth, indulgent package. The rich, velvety custard filling, combined with the deep sweetness of homemade caramel, creates a pie that’s both luxurious and comforting. Whether you’re serving it for a special celebration or simply enjoying a slice with loved ones, this pie will undoubtedly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Easy to make, yet impressive to serve, **Creamy Caramel Custard Pie** is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth and make any occasion even more memorable.

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