Egg Pie: A Classic Filipino Dessert
Egg Pie: A Classic Filipino Dessert
Contents
Egg pie is a beloved Filipino dessert featuring a creamy egg custard filling inside a flaky pie crust. Its signature golden-brown top, achieved by folding beaten egg whites into the custard, makes it a nostalgic treat often enjoyed as a merienda or dessert during celebrations.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 cups (270g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp (13g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp (1g) salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 5 tbsp (75ml) cold water
For the Custard Filling:
- 4 large eggs (3 whole eggs + 1 egg separated into yolk and white)
- 1 can (300ml) condensed milk
- 1 can (370ml) evaporated milk
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240g) all-purpose cream (or heavy cream/whipping cream)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pie Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter cubes and mix until crumbly using your fingertips or a pastry cutter. Gradually add cold water until the dough comes together. Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch round baking pan. Press the dough into the pan, trimming excess edges. Return the pan to the fridge while preparing the filling.
-
Make the Custard Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole eggs, condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and cream until smooth. Strain the mixture twice for a smoother custard.
- Beat the reserved egg white until soft peaks form. Gently fold it into the custard mixture.
-
Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Pour the custard filling into the chilled pie crust.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 350°F, then reduce the heat to 325°F (160°C) and bake for an additional 30–40 minutes. The edges should be set, and the center should slightly jiggle.
- Let the pie cool completely before slicing.
Tips for Success
- Use cold butter for a flaky crust. Softened butter can make the crust tough.
- Do not skip chilling the dough, as it prevents shrinkage during baking.
- Strain the custard mixture to remove lumps and achieve a smoother filling.
- Avoid overbaking; the center should still jiggle slightly when removed from the oven.
FAQ
What makes Filipino egg pie unique?
Filipino egg pie uses evaporated milk instead of fresh milk, giving it a richer flavor. The golden-brown top, achieved by folding beaten egg whites into the custard, is also a distinctive feature.
Can I substitute condensed milk in the recipe?
Condensed milk is essential for sweetness and texture. Substituting it may alter the flavor and consistency of the custard.
How long can I store egg pie?
Egg pie can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw slices in the fridge or warm them in the oven before serving.
Why does my egg pie crack on top?
Overbeating the egg white or baking at too high a temperature can cause cracking. Follow the recipe’s instructions for soft peaks and gradual baking temperatures.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Filipino Egg Pie | American Custard Pie |
|---|---|---|
| Milk Used | Evaporated milk | Fresh whole milk or cream |
| Signature Top | Golden brown, caramelized | Smooth, no caramelization |
| Flavor Profile | Rich, custard-like | Lighter, milder flavor |
| Common Sweetener | Condensed milk | Granulated sugar |
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- Bibingkang Malagkit (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake)
- Filipino Biko Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Sticky Rice Cake
- Buchi: Filipino Sesame Seed-Filled Rice Balls
- Buko Pandan: The Ultimate Filipino Creamy Coconut Dessert Salad