Gingerbread Pie Recipe: A Slice of Holiday Comfort

 When the air turns crisp and holiday spirit fills every corner, there's nothing quite like indulging in the warm, spiced flavors of gingerbread. While gingerbread cookies and houses certainly have a special place on the holiday table, why not take this classic seasonal treat to the next level? Enter Gingerbread Pie—a dessert that wraps the bold, aromatic spices of gingerbread in a creamy, custard-like filling, nestled inside a buttery crust. It's everything we love about cozy winter baking in one magical slice.

Whether you're hosting a festive feast or just want to treat yourself to something special with a cup of tea by the fire, this Gingerbread Pie is destined to become a holiday favorite.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delightful dessert.

For the pie crust:

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 4–6 tbsp ice water

For the gingerbread filling:

• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup (120ml) molasses
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp salt

Optional toppings:

• Whipped cream
• Crushed gingerbread cookies
• A light dusting of cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Make the dough

   • Combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together. Avoid overmixing—it should hold its shape but not feel wet.

2. Chill the dough

   • Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

3. Roll and pre-bake the crust

   • Roll the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Carefully transfer it to the dish, pressing it gently into the edges. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges if desired.
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork, line it with parchment paper, and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
   • Bake the crust for 10–12 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment. Bake for another 5–8 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool.

Step 2: Make the Gingerbread Filling

1. Whisk the wet ingredients

   • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, and molasses until smooth. Add the milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, and whisk to combine.

2. Add the spices

   • Stir in the ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until the mixture is fragrant and uniform.

3. Fill the crust

   • Pour the gingerbread filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Pie

• Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
• Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. (This helps the filling to fully set and ensures clean slices.)

Tips for Serving

1. Top it off: Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on each slice, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a crumble of gingerbread cookies for extra flair.
2. Pair it right: Serve the pie warm or at room temperature, accompanied by hot coffee, spiced tea, or even a glass of eggnog.
3. Customize it: Want an extra zing? Add a touch of fresh grated orange zest to the filling or garnish for a citrusy twist.

This Gingerbread Pie is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday menu or a delightful weekend treat to cozy up with during wintry nights. Its bold and warming spices will fill your home with nostalgia and cheer as it bakes, and every bite promises a little slice of holiday magic. Don't be surprised when your guests beg you for the recipe!