Oh, rhubarb season! It takes me right back to my grandma’s kitchen, where the first spring stalks meant one thing – sweet-tart desserts bubbling in her oven. But let’s be honest, rolling out pie crust can be such a fuss. That’s why this Easy Crustless Rhubarb Custard Pie has become my go-to. It’s got all that nostalgic rhubarb flavor without the pastry stress – just chop, mix, and bake. The magic happens when the tart rhubarb meets that velvety custard filling. Honestly? I think it’s even better than traditional pie – the creamy texture soaks up all that rosy rhubarb juice perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Crustless Rhubarb Custard Pie
Let me count the ways this pie will steal your heart (and save your sanity):
- No crust drama: Skip the rolling pin and floury countertops – this beauty bakes right in the dish
- Weeknight easy: From bowl to oven in 10 minutes flat (I’ve timed it while chasing toddlers)
- Creamy dreamy texture: The custard sets like a soft hug around those tangy rhubarb pieces
- Perfect sweet-tart balance: Adjust the sugar to your taste – I like mine just shy of puckering
Trust me, once you try this fuss-free version, you might never go back to traditional pie crust again!
Ingredients for Easy Crustless Rhubarb Custard Pie
Grab these simple ingredients – I bet you’ve got most in your kitchen already! The fresh rhubarb is non-negotiable though – those grocery store stalks better be ruby-red and firm. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups chopped rhubarb (about 4-5 medium stalks, trimmed and sliced 1/2-inch thick)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature blends smoother – just set them out 30 minutes before)
- 1 cup sugar (I use regular white, but brown sugar adds nice caramel notes)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled – no packed cups here!)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (the real stuff – imitation just won’t do)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (balances all that sweetness)
- 1 cup whole milk (2% works in a pinch, but whole makes the custard extra lush)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for that rich, golden top)
See? Nothing fancy – just good ingredients treated right. Now let’s make some magic!
How to Make Easy Crustless Rhubarb Custard Pie
Okay, folks – time to turn those simple ingredients into something magical! This recipe flows like a sweet little dance – just follow these easy steps and you’ll have pie perfection in no time. Here’s how it all comes together:
Step 1: Prep the Rhubarb
First things first – let’s show that rhubarb some love! I like to chop mine into 1/2-inch pieces – not too big (they’ll stay crunchy), not too small (you want those juicy bursts of flavor). The secret? Slice them evenly so they bake at the same rate.
Now grab your favorite pie dish (mine’s a well-loved 9-inch ceramic number) and give it a quick butter greasing. Spread those rosy rhubarb pieces in an even layer – they’ll look so pretty against the white dish, like little pink jewels waiting for their custard blanket!
Step 2: Mix the Custard
Here’s where the magic happens! In a big bowl, whisk those room-temperature eggs like you mean it – about 30 seconds until they’re nice and frothy. Now add the sugar gradually while whisking – watch how it turns pale yellow and gets all velvety!
Add the flour, vanilla, and salt next, whisking until you can’t see a single lump (run a fork through to double-check – no one wants flour pockets in their custard!). Slowly stream in the milk while whisking, then that glorious melted butter last. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon beautifully – that’s your sign it’s ready!
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Carefully pour that silky custard over the waiting rhubarb – it’ll seep into all the nooks and crannies. Pop it in your preheated 350°F oven and resist opening the door for at least 40 minutes (I know, the suspense kills me too!).
You’ll know it’s done when the edges turn golden brown and the center just barely jiggles when nudged (like firm jello – not liquidy!). If it’s getting too brown, just tent some foil over the top. Let it cool at least 20 minutes – I know it’s hard to wait, but this lets the custard set up properly!
Tips for the Best Easy Crustless Rhubarb Custard Pie
After making this pie more times than I can count (okay, maybe I can count – it’s a lot!), here are my foolproof tips:
- Taste your rhubarb first: Super tart? Bump up the sugar by 1/4 cup. Sweeter stalks? You can reduce it slightly.
- Room temp eggs are key: Cold eggs make the custard grainy – I leave mine out while prepping the rhubarb.
- Patience pays off: Let it cool at least 20 minutes before slicing – the custard needs time to set properly!
- Check your oven: Mine runs hot – start checking at 40 minutes to prevent overbaking.
Follow these simple tricks and you’ll get perfect custard every single time!
Variations for Easy Crustless Rhubarb Custard Pie
Oh, the possibilities! While I adore the pure rhubarb version, sometimes I can’t resist playing around:
- Berry buddies: Swap half the rhubarb for sliced strawberries – they’re rhubarb’s perfect sweet partner
- Spice it up: A pinch of cinnamon or cardamom in the custard adds cozy warmth
- Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking for texture
See? Endless ways to make this pie your own!
Serving and Storing Easy Crustless Rhubarb Custard Pie
Oh, the serving options! I love this pie slightly warm – just enough to make the custard extra creamy but not so hot it falls apart. Chilled is divine too, especially on summer days when that cool, tangy bite hits the spot. Leftovers? Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days – if it lasts that long! A quick 10-second microwave zap brings back that fresh-from-the-oven magic.
Nutritional Information for Easy Crustless Rhubarb Custard Pie
Now, I’m no nutritionist (just a pie enthusiast!), but here’s the scoop: each generous slice packs about 220 calories and 25g sugar – though this varies based on your exact ingredients. The eggs and milk give you a nice protein boost while that glorious rhubarb sneaks in some fiber too. Not bad for such a luscious dessert!
FAQs About Easy Crustless Rhubarb Custard Pie
I get asked these questions all the time – let me save you some kitchen stress!
Can I use frozen rhubarb?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain it well – frozen rhubarb releases more liquid, so I pat it dry with paper towels to prevent a soggy pie. No need to adjust baking time.
How do I prevent curdling?
The key is gradual mixing! Add milk slowly while whisking constantly, and don’t overbake. If you see small cracks forming, it’s done – take it out immediately.
Is this gluten-free?
Yep! Just swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite GF blend. The texture stays beautifully creamy.
Can I make it ahead?
You bet! Bake it the day before and refrigerate – the flavors actually deepen overnight. Serve chilled or gently rewarmed.
Why did my custard sink?
Usually means underbaking. Next time, wait until the center barely jiggles when nudged – like set gelatin. And resist cutting in too soon!
Share Your Easy Crustless Rhubarb Custard Pie
Made this beauty? I’d love to see your creation! Snap a pic and tag me – nothing makes me happier than seeing your custardy masterpieces. Happy baking, friends!
Print
Effortless 10-Minute Easy Crustless Rhubarb Custard Pie Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious crustless pie made with fresh rhubarb and a creamy custard filling.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped rhubarb
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread chopped rhubarb evenly in a greased pie dish.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, flour, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Gradually stir in milk and melted butter.
- Pour the custard mixture over the rhubarb.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh rhubarb for best results.
- Adjust sugar based on rhubarb tartness.
- Serve warm or chilled.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg