This Cinnamon Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm embrace in pie form. Imagine a slice of pure comfort, featuring an incredibly smooth and creamy filling infused with the inviting aroma and subtle spice of cinnamon, all nestled within a tender, flaky, and buttery crust. It’s a perfect indulgence that captures the essence of cozy gatherings, making it an exceptional choice for the holidays or any time you seek a truly heartwarming and sweet treat. Each bite transports you to a place of nostalgic delight, making it an instant classic in your baking repertoire.
If you have a penchant for desserts that offer deep, rich flavors and a comforting warmth, then this Cinnamon Pie is an absolute culinary adventure you must embark on. It stands out with its velvety smooth and exquisitely creamy texture, generously imbued with the comforting spice of cinnamon. This harmonious blend makes every forkful a delightful taste of autumn and festive holiday seasons combined, perfect for creating cherished memories around the table.
Our rendition of this old-fashioned favorite is remarkably simple to prepare, relying on common pantry staples. The luscious filling is baked within a golden, buttery crust until it reaches a beautiful, lightly golden perfection. While utterly delicious served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen, it’s equally delightful at room temperature, making it a versatile and impressive dessert for any occasion. Its understated elegance and profound flavor make it a true crowd-pleaser.
Homemade Pie Recipes hold a special, indispensable place on holiday menus, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas. For those who adore cinnamon, we highly recommend exploring our other spiced delights like the indulgent Cinnamon Roll Pie and the inventive Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie, each offering a unique twist on this beloved spice, ensuring a festive and flavorful spread.
What’s in this post: The Ultimate Cinnamon Pie Recipe
- Why You’ll Adore This Cinnamon Pie
- Key Ingredients for the Perfect Pie
- Creative Variations to Customize Your Pie
- Easy Step-By-Step Instructions
- Expert Tips for a Flawless Cinnamon Pie
- Delicious Toppings and Serving Ideas
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More Irresistible Cinnamon Desserts
- More Simple & Delicious Pie Recipes
- Printable Cinnamon Pie Recipe Card
Why You’ll Adore This Cinnamon Pie
This Cinnamon Pie isn’t just another dessert; it’s an experience waiting to be savored. Here’s why it quickly becomes a family favorite:
- Unforgettable Warm Cinnamon Flavor. Each decadent bite is a journey through comforting spice, thanks to a generous infusion of ground cinnamon. It’s not overpowering but perfectly balanced, evoking feelings of autumn leaves, crackling fireplaces, and joyful holiday celebrations. The subtle warmth lingers on the palate, inviting another taste.
- Luxuriously Creamy Texture. The filling is a masterpiece of smoothness and richness. Crafted with cream cheese and eggs, it achieves a custard-like consistency that melts in your mouth without being overly heavy. This velvety texture provides a delightful contrast to the crispness of the pie crust, making for a truly satisfying dessert experience.
- Flaky, Golden Buttery Crust. A pie is only as good as its crust, and this recipe delivers a spectacular one. Whether you opt for a convenient store-bought option or a homemade creation, the crust bakes up beautifully golden and incredibly flaky. Its rich, buttery notes provide the perfect counterpoint to the sweet, spiced filling, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
- Effortlessly Easy to Make. Don’t let its sophisticated taste fool you; this pie is surprisingly simple to prepare. With straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients, it’s an approachable recipe for bakers of all skill levels, even those new to pie-making. It’s perfect for whipping up a quick dessert without any stress.
- Versatile Serving Options. This pie is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy it chilled straight from the refrigerator for a firmer, more refreshing slice, or at room temperature where its creamy filling becomes even more luscious. For an extra touch of indulgence, it pairs beautifully with various toppings, allowing you to customize each serving to perfection.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Pie
Crafting this delightful Cinnamon Pie requires a few simple, high-quality ingredients that work together to create its signature taste and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial:
- Premade 9” Pie Crust (unbaked). To simplify your baking process without compromising on quality, an unbaked store-bought pie crust is an excellent choice. It provides a consistently flaky and buttery foundation for your pie, saving valuable time and effort.
- Cream Cheese (softened to room temperature). This is the secret to the pie’s incredibly smooth and rich texture. Ensuring the cream cheese is softened at room temperature is vital for easy blending, preventing any lumps and guaranteeing a silky, uniform filling.
- Brown Sugar (lightly packed). Brown sugar not only provides essential sweetness but also contributes a wonderful depth of flavor with its subtle caramel notes. Lightly packing it ensures accurate measurement and the right balance of sweetness.
- Large Eggs. Eggs serve as a crucial binding agent, giving the creamy filling its structure and contributing to its luxurious richness. They are key to achieving the perfect custard-like consistency.
- Half and Half. This dairy product adds a luscious creaminess to the filling without making it excessively heavy or rich. It strikes a perfect balance, enhancing the overall decadence of the pie.
- All-Purpose Flour. A small amount of all-purpose flour acts as a gentle thickener and stabilizer for the filling, helping it set beautifully while maintaining its creamy texture during baking.
- Ground Cinnamon. The star of the show! Generous use of ground cinnamon infuses the pie with its signature warm, cozy, and aromatic spice flavor, making it truly unforgettable.
- Vanilla Extract. A touch of vanilla extract works wonders to enhance the overall sweetness and adds an additional layer of aromatic depth, complementing the cinnamon beautifully.
- Salt. Just a quarter teaspoon of salt is enough to balance the sweetness of the other ingredients, bringing out and enhancing the complex flavors of the pie without making it taste salty.
- Powdered Sugar (optional, for dusting). For a beautiful presentation and an extra hint of sweetness, a light dusting of powdered sugar over the cooled pie before serving adds a delicate, elegant finishing touch.
For a comprehensive list of quantities and detailed measurements, please refer to the complete recipe card located at the bottom of this article.
Creative Variations to Customize Your Pie
While the classic Cinnamon Pie is a masterpiece on its own, don’t hesitate to personalize it with these exciting variations to suit your taste or occasion:
- Homemade Pie Crust. Elevate your pie by crafting your own crust. While a store-bought crust offers unbeatable convenience, using your favorite 3-Ingredient Pie Crust Recipe or a classic all-butter crust adds a distinct, homemade flavor and texture that can truly make the pie your own.
- Graham Cracker Pie Crust. For a delightful twist, replace the traditional pastry crust with a Graham Cracker Pie Crust. Its slightly sweet and crumbly texture offers a fantastic contrast to the creamy cinnamon filling, introducing a new dimension of flavor and crunch.
- Additional Spices. Deepen the warm, aromatic profile by introducing other complementary spices. A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg, a whisper of allspice, or even a tiny amount of ground ginger can create a more complex and intriguing flavor. Start with a quarter to half teaspoon to ensure it blends perfectly without overshadowing the star spice, cinnamon.
- Sweetener Variations. Experiment with different types of sugar to alter the depth and richness of the filling. Using a mix of light brown sugar and dark brown sugar can intensify the caramel notes. For an even richer, more profound taste, consider incorporating a tablespoon or two of pure maple syrup into the mixture.
- Enhanced Topping Options. Beyond a simple dusting of powdered sugar, get creative with your toppings. A drizzle of luscious Homemade Caramel Sauce or a generous dollop of fluffy Homemade Whipped Cream can transform this already delicious pie into an extraordinary dessert. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or candied walnuts can also add a delightful textural contrast.
- Mini Pies. For individual servings that are perfect for parties or portion control, prepare this recipe in muffin tins or mini pie pans. Simply adjust the baking time accordingly (they will bake faster) for adorable and delicious mini cinnamon pies.
- Nut Additions. Introduce a delightful crunch and nutty flavor by sprinkling finely chopped pecans or walnuts directly into the filling before baking. Alternatively, toast and sprinkle them on top of the finished pie just before serving for an elegant flourish.
Easy Step-By-Step Instructions
Making this creamy Cinnamon Pie is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for a perfect bake:
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place your premade 9-inch pie dough into a pie plate. Gently crimp the edges of the pie crust to create a decorative finish and to prevent shrinking. Once prepared, place the pie crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling. This helps maintain its shape during baking.
Step 2: Cream the Sugar and Cheese. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the packed brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients together on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes wonderfully light, fluffy, and completely smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs. Gradually add the large eggs to the cream cheese mixture, one at a time. After each egg addition, beat well with the electric mixer until it is fully incorporated into the batter. This slow addition ensures a smooth emulsion and a rich, cohesive filling texture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients. At this stage, ensure all your wet and dry ingredients (half and half, flour, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt) are measured and ready. This prepares you for the next step, ensuring a smooth and efficient mixing process.
Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients. With the mixer on low speed, gradually incorporate the half and half, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt into the cream cheese and egg mixture. Add them slowly to prevent any flour from scattering and to ensure they blend thoroughly.
Step 6: Mix Until Smooth. Continue mixing on low speed until all the ingredients are perfectly combined and the filling appears completely smooth and uniform, with no visible streaks or lumps. Avoid overmixing, as this can incorporate too much air, which might affect the final texture of the pie.
Step 7: Pour and Bake. Carefully pour the creamy cinnamon filling into the chilled pie crust. Transfer the pie to your preheated oven and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until the edges of the pie filling are set. The center of the pie may still appear slightly jiggly; this is perfectly normal, as it will continue to set and firm up as the pie cools completely. Overbaking can lead to a dry filling.
Step 8: Cool, Chill, and Serve. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature on a wire rack. After it has fully cooled, cover the pie gently and transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for a minimum of 2-4 hours. This crucial step allows the pie to fully set and develop its optimal flavor and texture. When you’re ready to serve, let the pie sit at room temperature for about an hour for easier slicing and enhanced flavor. Just before serving, dust the top generously with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation, then slice, serve, and enjoy this delightful treat!
Expert Tips for a Flawless Cinnamon Pie
Achieving pie perfection often comes down to a few key techniques. Here are some expert tips to ensure your Cinnamon Pie turns out beautifully every time:
- Room Temperature Ingredients are Key. For a truly smooth and lump-free filling, always ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before you begin mixing. Cold ingredients will not emulsify properly, leading to a lumpy texture. Take them out of the refrigerator at least 30-60 minutes before you start.
- Chill for the Best Texture and Flavor. Patience is a virtue when it comes to this pie! While it’s tempting to dig in immediately, this cinnamon pie truly develops its optimal flavor and firm, yet creamy, texture after a good chill. Allow it to set in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, though 4 hours or even overnight is highly recommended for the most satisfying results.
- Master the Mixing Method. Use an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer to combine your filling ingredients. This guarantees a smooth, homogenous mixture, preventing any pesky lumps of cream cheese. Mix just until combined and smooth; overmixing can incorporate too much air, which might cause the pie to puff up excessively in the oven and then fall.
- Avoid the Pitfall of Overbaking. It’s common for the center of the pie to still appear slightly jiggly when it’s done baking. This is normal and desired! The residual heat will continue to cook the pie as it cools. Overbaking is the enemy of a creamy pie filling, as it can lead to a dry, rubbery, or cracked texture. Remove the pie from the oven as soon as the edges are set and the center has a gentle wobble.
- Ensure Even Cooling. Allow your pie to cool completely on a wire rack in the pan before attempting to transfer or slice it. Rushing this step can lead to cracks in the filling or a compromised structure. A gradual cool-down helps the pie set properly and prevents temperature shock.
- Achieve Clean Slices. For picture-perfect slices, use a sharp, thin-bladed knife. For the neatest cuts, wipe the knife clean with a damp cloth between each slice. This prevents the creamy filling from sticking and creating messy edges.
- Optional Flavor Boost. If you’re a true cinnamon enthusiast and want an even more pronounced spice flavor, consider adding an extra pinch of cinnamon (up to half a teaspoon more) or a dash of freshly grated nutmeg to the filling mixture. This amplifies the warmth and aromatic complexity.
- Prevent Crust from Burning. If your pie crust edges start browning too quickly during baking, loosely cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield. This protects the crust while allowing the filling to cook thoroughly.
Delicious Toppings and Serving Ideas
While incredible on its own, a simple topping can elevate your Cinnamon Pie to new heights of indulgence. Here are some fantastic ideas:
- Homemade Whipped Cream Recipe: Light, airy, and creamy, it perfectly complements the rich pie.
- Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting adds an elegant finish and a subtle extra sweetness.
- Sprinkle of Cinnamon: For an extra visual and aromatic touch that reinforces the pie’s star flavor.
- No-Churn Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of cold, creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful temperature and texture contrast.
- Homemade Hot Fudge Sauce: For the chocolate lovers, a warm drizzle adds a decadent touch.
- Easy Homemade Caramel Sauce Recipe: The buttery, sweet notes of caramel are a heavenly match for cinnamon.
- Toasted Pecans or Walnuts: Add a lovely crunch and nutty depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Proper storage is key to enjoying your Cinnamon Pie for days. Any leftover pie should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerated. When stored correctly, it will maintain its freshness and delicious flavor for up to 5 days. For best results, place it in an airtight container if possible, to prevent it from absorbing any refrigerator odors.
Absolutely! This Cinnamon Pie freezes exceptionally well, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping ahead of the holidays or for enjoying a homemade treat later. To freeze, allow the baked pie to cool completely at room temperature. Then, wrap it securely first in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. For extra protection against freezer burn, you can place the wrapped pie inside a freezer-safe container or a large freezer bag. The pie can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator. You can enjoy it chilled, or let it come to room temperature for about an hour before serving.
This Cinnamon Pie is an ideal make-ahead dessert, which is a huge advantage, especially during busy times. You can easily bake this pie the night before you plan to serve it, or even up to two days in advance. Preparing it ahead of time ensures the pie has ample opportunity to cool completely and set properly in the refrigerator, leading to a much better texture and more developed flavors. Many bakers, including myself, actually prefer to make this pie in advance for these very reasons.
Cracks in the pie filling usually indicate overbaking or too rapid cooling. Overbaking dries out the custard, causing it to shrink and crack. To prevent this, remove the pie from the oven when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Additionally, allowing the pie to cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating can help prevent cracks caused by sudden temperature changes.
Yes, absolutely! While a traditional pastry crust is recommended, you can certainly experiment with other types. A graham cracker crust or a shortbread crust would both complement the cinnamon filling wonderfully, offering a different textural experience. Ensure whichever crust you choose is suitable for a baked filling.
More Irresistible Cinnamon Desserts
If you’re a true aficionado of cinnamon, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic recipes that celebrate this beloved spice:
- Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
- Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookies
- More Amazing Cinnamon Desserts
- Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
More Simple & Delicious Pie Recipes
For more effortless and delicious pie ideas that are perfect for any occasion, check out these easy recipes:
- Easy Pecan Pie Recipe
- Dulce De Leche Pumpkin Pie
- Butternut Squash Pie Recipe
- Crack Pie Recipe
- Mincemeat Pie
- Best Sprite Pie Recipe
We genuinely love to hear about your baking experiences! If you try this amazing Cinnamon Pie Recipe, please be sure to leave us a comment and a rating below. Your feedback helps us and other home bakers.
Pin
Cinnamon Pie
15
40
2
2
55
8
American
Dessert
398
Carrie Barnard
Ingredients
-
1
Premade 9” Pie Crust
unbaked -
8
oz
Cream Cheese
softened at room temperature -
1
cup
Brown Sugar
packed -
3
Large Eggs -
1 1/4
cup
Half and Half -
1/4
cup
All Purpose Flour -
3
Tablespoons
Ground Cinnamon -
2
tsp
Vanilla Extract -
1/4
tsp
Salt -
Powdered Sugar
for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175°C) and carefully place your pre-made pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. Crimp the edges of the pie crust artfully and then place it in the refrigerator to chill while you proceed with preparing the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the brown sugar and softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes wonderfully light and fluffy, usually taking about 3-4 minutes. Ensure no lumps remain.
- Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly incorporate the half and half, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until the entire mixture is perfectly combined and smooth.
- Carefully pour the creamy cinnamon filling into your prepared, chilled pie crust. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges of the pie filling are nicely set. Remember, the center will still have a slight jiggle, which is normal as it will continue to firm up as the pie cools.
- Allow the freshly baked pie to cool completely at room temperature on a wire rack. Once fully cooled, gently cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours. This crucial step allows the pie to properly set. When you are ready to serve, let the pie sit at room temperature for about 1 hour for optimal flavor and easier slicing.
- Just before serving, dust the top of the pie generously with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation and a hint of extra sweetness. Your magnificent Cinnamon Pie is now ready to slice, serve, and be thoroughly enjoyed!
Nutrition Facts
Calories
398
kcal
,
Carbohydrates
46
g
,
Protein
7
g
,
Fat
21
g
,
Saturated Fat
11
g
,
Polyunsaturated Fat
2
g
,
Monounsaturated Fat
7
g
,
Trans Fat
0.01
g
,
Cholesterol
103
mg
,
Sodium
303
mg
,
Potassium
186
mg
,
Fiber
2
g
,
Sugar
30
g
,
Vitamin A
613
IU
,
Vitamin C
0.5
mg
,
Calcium
135
mg
,
Iron
2
mg
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