Name: Vanilla Cinnamon Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 200 g Flour (all purpose); 50 g Sugar (granulated); 1 pinch Salt; 135 g Butter (unsalted cut into pieces and very cold); 60 ml Water (iced); 225 g Cream cheese (Philadelphia); 100 g Sugar; 50 g Brown sugar; 300 g heavy cream (full fat); 2 tsp Vanilla extract; 30 g Flour (or cornflour); 3 tsp Ground cinnamon; 0.5 tsp All spices; 1 pinch Salt

Introduction to Vanilla Cinnamon Pie

When it comes to dessert that strikes the perfect balance between sweet indulgence and comforting warmth, the vanilla cinnamon pie stands out. This delightful treat is not only easy to make but also perfect for the busy young professional who craves a slice of homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. The blend of rich cream cheese and warm spices creates a velvety filling that's sure to please any palate, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or a quiet evening at home.

Why Vanilla Cinnamon Pie is the Perfect Dessert for Young Professionals

Imagine unwinding after a long day with a slice of warm vanilla cinnamon pie accompanied by your favorite tea or coffee. This dessert is designed for those of us who juggle work and social life but still want to impress friends or treat ourselves. The ingredients are pantry staples, and once prepped, it bakes effortlessly while you catch up on emails or prepare dinner. Plus, its stunning appearance can easily elevate any dinner party without demanding too much effort from you.

If you’re intrigued, you can find more about the culinary benefits of cinnamon here. The vanilla cinnamon pie not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also brings a dash of nostalgia—a reminder of home-baked treats, family gatherings, and cozy evenings. Let’s dive right into how you can whip up this delectable pie!

Ingredients for Vanilla Cinnamon Pie

Creating a delicious vanilla cinnamon pie is all about selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed breakdown to ensure your pie comes out perfectly!

Detailed List of Ingredients for the Pie Crust

To achieve a flaky and flavorful crust, gather the following:

200 g (1 ⅓ cup) All-Purpose Flour: This is the foundation of your crust, giving it structure.
50 g (¼ cup) Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
1 Pinch of Salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
135 g (1 stick + 2 tbsp) Unsalted Butter: Make sure it's cold to create that flaky texture.
60 ml (¼ cup) Iced Water: Helps bind the dough without heating it up.

It’s essential to use cold ingredients for the best results!

Comprehensive List of Ingredients for the Cinnamon Filling

The filling is what makes the vanilla cinnamon pie truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

225 g (8 oz) Cream Cheese: A rich base that brings creaminess.
100 g (½ cup) Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling wonderfully.
50 g (¼ cup) Brown Sugar: Adds depth of flavor with its molasses notes.
3 Eggs (room temperature): Essential for binding and structure.
300 g (1 ¼ cup) Heavy Cream: Provides richness and volume.
2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: The star ingredient, delivering that delicious vanilla essence.
30 g (3 tbsp) Flour or Cornflour: For a smooth filling texture.
3 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: The key spice for that warm flavor.
½ teaspoon All Spice: A hint of complexity.
1 Pinch of Salt: Just a bit to heighten the flavor.

These carefully selected ingredients are the secret to crafting a delightful vanilla cinnamon pie that will impress friends and family alike. When shopping, feel free to check out local organic markets for fresher, high-quality options! Consider reading about the benefits of cooking with natural ingredients here.

Now, are you ready to start baking?

Preparing Vanilla Cinnamon Pie

Making a delicious vanilla cinnamon pie at home is both a satisfying and rewarding experience. With its creamy filling and buttery crust, this pie is sure to impress your friends and family. Here’s how to do it, step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by gathering your ingredients for the pie crust. You will need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and unsalted butter.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

200 g (1 ⅓ cup) all-purpose flour
50 g (¼ cup) granulated sugar
A pinch of salt

Add 135 g (1 stick + 2 tbsp) of very cold, unsalted butter cut into small pieces. Use your hands to crumble the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
Gradually add 60 ml (¼ cup) of iced water to the mixture, gathering it with your hands until it forms a dough. Avoid over-kneading – we want a tender crust!
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps the butter solidify, resulting in a flaky crust.
Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface or between two sheets of parchment paper to about a thickness of 3-4 mm. Gently line a 9-inch pie plate with the rolled dough, shape the edges, and prick the bottom with a fork. Place it back in the freezer while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Filling Ingredients

Now it’s time for the star of the show: the cinnamon filling!

In a large bowl, combine:

225 g (8 oz) cream cheese
100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar
50 g (¼ cup) brown sugar

Mix using an electric mixer for about two minutes until smooth.

Add three room-temperature eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 300 g (1 ¼ cup) of heavy cream. Beat the mixture again until everything is well blended.
Finally, incorporate 30 g (3 tbsp) of flour, a pinch of salt, and your spices: 3 teaspoons of ground cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of all spices. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the mixture with a spatula.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

After preparing both the crust and filling, it’s time to bring everything together. Pour the creamy cinnamon filling into the chilled pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the pie for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the texture feels firm to the touch. This is where the kitchen will start smelling heavenly!

Step 5: Cool and Serve the Pie

Once baked, remove the vanilla cinnamon pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. You can serve it either lukewarm or chilled, topped with a dollop of whipped cream for that extra touch of indulgence.

Enjoy making this delightful vanilla cinnamon pie! It’s perfect for any occasion and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. If you're interested in more pie variations, check out this article on pie types!

Variations on Vanilla Cinnamon Pie

Alternative Spices for Unique Flavors

While the classic vanilla and cinnamon combination is simply irresistible, why not experiment a bit? Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger can bring a delightful warmth that complements the vanilla cinnamon pie beautifully. For a spicier kick, consider mixing in a dash of cardamom or even some chili powder for those adventurous palates. Don't be afraid to get creative—these spices can elevate your pie to new heights!

Different Types of Crusts to Try

If you’re looking to switch things up, there are a variety of crusts that can add a unique twist to your vanilla cinnamon pie. A graham cracker crust offers a sweet, crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling. For a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or a store-bought gluten-free crust. If you’re in the mood for something savory, consider a nut-based crust for an interesting contrast to the sweet filling. The possibilities are endless, and they all bring their own charm to the table!

For more inspiration, check out King Arthur Baking's expert tips on pie crust variations.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Vanilla Cinnamon Pie

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Pie Baking

Baking a vanilla cinnamon pie can be straightforward, but it’s those small details that can make or break your creation. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

Using warm butter: Your butter should always be very cold when making the crust. This helps achieve a flaky texture that’s the hallmark of a great pie.
Skipping the chilling step: Don’t rush! Letting your pie crust chill in the fridge helps the gluten relax, leading to a more tender crust.
Overmixing the filling: When incorporating eggs and cream, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a rubbery texture in your filling.
Not preheating the oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps the pie set correctly and achieve that lovely golden-brown top.

For more pie-baking insights, check out reputable sources like King Arthur Baking for handy tips. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Vanilla Cinnamon Pie

Best Accompaniments for the Perfect Slice

Pair your vanilla cinnamon pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a classic touch. The creamy texture beautifully complements the spiced filling. Alternatively, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream — the cold, smooth contrast will elevate every bite.

For an unexpected twist, try adding roasted nuts, such as almonds or pecans, on top for crunch. You could also include a simple fruit compote, like spiced apples or poached pears, to enhance the pie's flavors.

Looking for a drink? A warm cup of chai tea or a spiced apple cider would be perfect companions!

Time Breakdown for Vanilla Cinnamon Pie

Preparation Time
Getting your vanilla cinnamon pie underway is a delightful experience that takes about 30 minutes. This includes whipping up the pie crust and mixing the creamy cinnamon filling.

Baking Time
The magic happens in the oven, where your pie bakes for roughly 45 minutes. This allows it to achieve that perfect golden-brown top while developing a firm texture.

Total Time
In total, be ready to invest about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish before you can dig into this deliciously creamy dessert. That’s a small price to pay for pie perfection!

Looking to dive deeper into more delightful dessert recipes? Check out Bon Appétit or Food Network for inspiration!

Nutritional Facts for Vanilla Cinnamon Pie

When indulging in a slice of vanilla cinnamon pie, it's great to know what you're treating your taste buds to! Here's a quick glance at the nutritional breakdown per slice (about ⅛th of the pie):

Calories: Approximately 320 calories
Protein: Around 4 grams, thanks to the cream cheese and eggs
Sugar Content: Roughly 20 grams, contributing to its sweet and creamy flavor

For more detailed nutritional insights, consider consulting resources like USDA FoodData or checking out nutrition analysis tools to see how this delectable dessert fits into your dietary goals. Enjoy your baking adventure!

FAQs about Vanilla Cinnamon Pie

Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! The vanilla cinnamon pie is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the pie a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it with plastic wrap to keep it fresh and moisture-free. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled or warm it slightly in the oven.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for alternatives to cream cheese, you might consider using mascarpone cheese, Greek yogurt, or even silken tofu blended until smooth for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the flavor and texture, but they can still deliver a delicious result!

How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is quite simple! Just cover any remaining vanilla cinnamon pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices. Wrap each piece securely and place them in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator when you’re ready for another slice!

Conclusion on Vanilla Cinnamon Pie

Enjoying Homemade Goodness: Why You Should Try This Recipe

There's something truly special about baking your own vanilla cinnamon pie. It fills your home with a warm aroma while offering a deliciously sweet, creamy filling that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every slice, knowing you’ve crafted a delightful dessert with love! For more tips on pie-making, check out Serious Eats for classic techniques.