Custard Pie. Florence Eckhart. Recipe

Custard pie is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed by many generations. Its origins can be traced back to medieval Europe, where custard was a popular ingredient used in various sweet and savory dishes. Over time, custard filling became a favorite choice for pie enthusiasts, resulting in the creation of the delicious custard pie we know today.

Fun Fact: The word "custard" is derived from the French word "croustade," meaning "crust." This is a fitting name, as custard pie consists of a creamy custard filling baked inside a flaky pastry crust.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for Florence Eckhart's Custard Pie:

Pastry:
- 1 cup shortening (a mixture of lard and butter)
- 3 cups flour
- Pinch of salt
- Ice water (as needed)

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, sift the flour and add the salt.
2. Add the shortening to the bowl and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, a little at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. Divide the dough into three equal portions. This recipe requires one-third of the dough, which is sufficient for one pie. You can reserve the remaining dough for future use or make additional pies.
5. Roll out the dough using a rolling pin on a lightly floured surface. Roll away from you to ensure an even thickness.
6. Carefully transfer the rolled-out pastry into a pie dish, making sure it covers the bottom and sides evenly. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

Filling:
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 quart of milk
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- Flavorings of your choice (e.g., vanilla extract, nutmeg, cinnamon)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, milk, salt, and sugar until well combined.
3. Add your desired flavorings, such as vanilla extract, nutmeg, or cinnamon, to taste. These will add a delightful aroma and taste to the custard.
4. Pour the custard mixture into the prepared pie crust, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
5. Place the custard pie in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes or until the custard is set in the center.
6. To check for doneness, gently shake the pie. If the custard jiggles slightly in the middle but is set around the edges, it is ready.
7. Once baked, remove the custard pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely before serving. This will help the custard set further.

Now that you have made Florence Eckhart's scrumptious Custard Pie, it's time to enjoy the rich and creamy goodness. Serve it as a standalone dessert or accompany it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Similar recipe dishes that you may also enjoy include quiche, which is a savory pie that combines a custard-like filling with various ingredients like cheese, vegetables, or meat. Another similar treat is cream pie, where a luscious custard filling is topped with a layer of whipped cream. Key lime pie is another custard-based dessert made with a tangy lime filling topped with meringue or whipped cream.

So, whether you're craving a classic custard pie or want to experiment with different flavors and variations, the beauty of custard-based desserts is their versatility and deliciousness that can be enjoyed on any occasion.