Cinnamon Pie Recipe – Sweet and Spiced Dessert

If you think making a pie from scratch is too time-consuming, you might be surprised by how straightforward this cinnamon pie recipe really is. With a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a sweet and spiced dessert that captures the essence of comfort food in every bite. The combination of creamy filling and flaky crust is not only satisfying but also leaves a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to taste it. As you consider the steps involved, you might wonder how to get that perfect blend of flavors and texture—let’s investigate the details together.

Key Takeaways

• Cinnamon pie features a creamy filling and flaky crust, making it a delightful dessert perfect for holidays or cozy gatherings.
• Essential ingredients include softened cream cheese, brown sugar, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and a pie crust, either homemade or store-bought.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the pie for 35-40 minutes to achieve the proper texture and flavor.
• Chill the pie for at least 2 hours before serving to enhance flavors, and consider topping it with whipped cream or powdered sugar.
• For variations, try adding meringue, chocolate shavings, or experimenting with Cool Whip and instant pudding for simpler options.

History

Throughout history, spices like cinnamon have played a significant role in the evolution of pies. The introduction of exotic spices through global trade transformed simple pie recipes into complex creations. These spices not only improved flavors but also marked pies as symbols of luxury and decadence.

Key points about the historical role of spices in pies include:

• Global Trade: Spices, including cinnamon, were often traded internationally, enriching local cuisines.

• Cultural Reflection: As technologies evolved, so did pie recipes, adapting to include new ingredients.

• Preservation Usage: In medieval times, pies often served as vessels for preserving meat, showcasing their functional applications.

• Moral Perspectives: The use of sugar and spices in pies faced criticism, regarded by some as indulgent or gluttonous.

Together, these factors show how pies reflect societal changes and culinary advancements. Cinnamon pie, in particular, serves as a symbol of community bonding through shared culinary experiences, especially among fans of the Psych series.

By integrating ingredients like cinnamon, pies moved from mere sustenance to expressions of art and culture, continuing to capture hearts and palates throughout the ages.

Understanding this history not only enriches your appreciation of cinnamon pie but also connects you to a broader culinary heritage that spans generations.

Recipe

Cinnamon pie is a deliciously creamy dessert that combines a rich, spiced filling with a flaky pie crust, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. This comforting dessert highlights the warm flavor of cinnamon, offering a delightful taste experience that will please your family and friends.

Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or simply a cozy night in, this cinnamon pie is bound to impress. To achieve the perfect pie, it’s important to verify that all your ingredients are at room temperature before getting started. This helps create a smooth, well-combined filling. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this classic dessert and enjoy a slice of cinnamon goodness in no time. Remember, the pie should be stored in the refrigerator due to the presence of cream cheese to ensure it stays fresh.

Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 8-12 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
– 1-1 1/3 cups brown sugar (light or dark)
– 2-3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1-1 1/4 cups heavy cream, at room temperature
– Flour
– Cinnamon
– Vanilla extract

To prepare the cinnamon pie, begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and rolling out your pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate. Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one by one, making sure to beat well after each addition until the mixture is smooth.

Next, mix in the heavy cream, followed by the flour, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Once well-combined, pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and set it on a baking sheet. Bake until the edges are set, but the center still jiggles gently, taking care to cover the crust edges with a pie crust shield or tinfoil to prevent burning. Follow the specific baking time as per your chosen recipe.

When it comes to making the cinnamon pie, don’t shy away from getting creative with your toppings and variations. Consider adding a whipped cream topping, sprinkling some powdered sugar, or dusting with extra ground cinnamon for added flavor.

For those who love a little extra crunch, a meringue topping or even some chocolate shavings can enhance the dessert’s presentation. Remember, you can also experiment by substituting some ingredients for a simpler filling, like using Cool Whip and instant vanilla pudding mix.

Happy baking!

Final Thoughts

When you take the time to prepare a cinnamon pie, you create a delightful dessert that’s perfect for many occasions. This recipe’s success lies in selecting quality ingredients and following a few essential tips.

Key Ingredients:
– Pie Crust: Opt for a homemade or buttery store-bought crust.
– Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling.
– Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is key; consider Vietnamese cinnamon for extra flavor.

Baking Tips:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F for even baking.
– Confirm the pie bakes for 35-40 minutes for the right texture.
– Let the pie chill for at least 2 hours or overnight to improve flavors. Chilling the pie enhances its taste and texture, making it even more enjoyable for your guests.

Serving Suggestions:
– Top with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
– For an added kick, sprinkle extra cinnamon on top.

Cinnamon pie isn’t just tasty; its creamy texture and warm spice make it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings.

Whether you’re making it for a meal or a special occasion, the pie is simple to prepare, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors with ease.

FAQ

Have questions about making cinnamon pie? You’re not alone! Here’s a quick FAQ to help you out.

What ingredients do I need?
You’ll need a premade or homemade pie crust, cream cheese, brown sugar, large eggs, heavy cream, flour, cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt.

What’s the baking process?
1. Prepare the pie crust: Roll out, crimp edges, and chill for 30 minutes before blind baking at 400°F (204°C) for 15-20 minutes.
2. Make the filling: Beat cream cheese and brown sugar, then mix in the eggs, heavy cream, flour, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg.
3. Bake the filled pie: Pour the filling into the baked crust and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 35-40 minutes.

How should I serve the pie?
Chill the pie for 2-3 hours before serving. Dust it with powdered sugar and top with whipped cream as desired. Cinnamon pie is best enjoyed either cold or at room temperature for maximum flavor.

Are there any tips for success?
– Use parchment paper and weights for blind baking.
– Place your pie on a baking sheet to catch spills.
– Protect edges with a pie shield to prevent burning.

These tips should make your cinnamon pie-making experience smoother!