Spiced Custard Pie with Sesame Crust

Name: Spiced Custard Pie with Sesame Crust
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 2 1/2 hours, plus chilling
Yield: Makes 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces; 1 tablespoon raw sesame seeds; 3 cups half-and-half; 2/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, divided; 1/3 cup sliced ginger (from a 3-inch piece); 1 stick cinnamon; 2 cloves; 8 large egg yolks, at room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; a 9-inch pie pan; pie weights or dried beans, a small culinary torch

By Sue Li

October 28, 2014

Image may contain Food Dessert Cake and Pie

photo by Linda Pugliese

One of the most important steps in making custard is making sure the sugar is fully dissolved into the yolks. Be sure to beat them together until pale yellow ribbons form, since the sugar acts as a shield for the yolks, preventing them from curdling when you add the hot cream.

Do ahead:

The pie can be baked up to 2 days in advance. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

Recipe notes

See Related Recipes and Cooking Tips

A Pie Crust For Every Occasion
From all-butter to press-in to cookie crumb, these crusts win.
Peking Turkey and Five More Brilliant Ways to Upgrade Your Thanksgiving
From an extra-juicy turkey to Szechuan-spiced Brussels sprouts, these Asian-inspired takes on Thanksgiving classics will wake up your holiday menu.