Are you craving that warm, comforting taste of McDonald's Holiday Pie but don't want to brave the drive-thru lines? This homemade version captures all the deliciousness of that classic seasonal treat, bringing the festive flavors right to your kitchen. It's easier than you think to recreate this beloved pie, making it a perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire or a delicious quick dinner idea for a cozy night in. Get ready to enjoy a warm, sweet, and spiced delight – entirely homemade and utterly satisfying!
Ingredients:
- 1 (14.1 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 ounce) package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 cup apple pie spice (optional, for extra warmth)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and optional apple pie spice until well combined. This is where you build the flavor base of your delicious pie filling.
Step 2: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs and milk or cream to the spice-milk mixture. Whisk vigorously until everything is thoroughly blended and the mixture is smooth. This ensures a creamy, consistent filling.
Step 3: Sweeten to Taste
Gently stir in the sugar. Taste the mixture and adjust the sugar to your preferred sweetness. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away!
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie plate. Pour the filling into the crust.
Step 5: Top it Off
Roll out the second pie crust and either place it over the filling, crimping the edges to seal, or cut it into strips for a lattice top. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the edges with foil.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents a messy serving experience. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Tips for the Best Homemade Holiday Pie:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your pie will be directly influenced by the quality of your ingredients.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry crust and a curdled filling.
- Let it cool completely: This step is crucial for easy slicing and prevents a runny filling.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream: This classic pairing elevates the dessert experience.
Variations:
- Add a touch of bourbon or rum: A teaspoon of your favorite liquor adds depth and warmth to the filling.
- Use different spices: Experiment with other warming spices like ginger or cardamom.
- Make it a mini pie: Use mini pie crusts for individual servings.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
This easy recipe allows you to enjoy the delicious taste of McDonald's Holiday Pie anytime you desire. It’s a perfect homemade treat for holiday gatherings or a simple yet satisfying dessert any day of the week. Happy baking!