Creamy Caramel Custard Pie

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Ingredients:

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Custard Filling:

• 1 pre-made or homemade pie crust (9-inch)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For Garnish (Optional):

• Whipped cream
• Caramel drizzle
• Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Caramel Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let it cook until the mixture turns a deep amber color (about 8–10 minutes).
2. Carefully whisk in the heavy cream (it will bubble vigorously). Add butter and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Pie Crust:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges as desired. Poke holes in the bottom with a fork.
3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

3. Make the Custard Filling:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until smooth.
2. Add milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until well combined.
3. Pour about 1/2 cup of the prepared caramel sauce into the custard mixture and whisk to blend.

4. Assemble the Pie:

1. Pour the custard mixture into the pre-baked pie crust.
2. Place the pie dish on a baking sheet and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

5. Cool and Garnish:

1. Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set.
2. Before serving, drizzle with remaining caramel sauce, add whipped cream, and sprinkle with nuts, if desired.

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Tips:

• Be patient when making the caramel; it can burn quickly if left unattended.
• For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar in place of granulated sugar in the caramel.

This Creamy Caramel Custard Pie is luscious and smooth with a perfect balance of sweetness from the caramel and creaminess from the custard. Let me know how it turns out!