Milk Bar Crack Pie Recipe

A Buttery, Gooey Delight

Milk Bar Crack Pie is one of the most sought-after desserts, known for its irresistible balance of sweet, salty, buttery, and creamy textures. Originally crafted by Christina Tosi at Milk Bar, this pie has a cult following, thanks to its oat cookie crust and rich custard-like filling. If you love decadent, melt-in-your-mouth treats, this is the perfect recipe for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for Special Occasions – Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or dinner party, this pie is guaranteed to impress.
  • A Unique Twist on Classic Pies – The oat cookie crust gives it a deliciously crunchy contrast to the silky filling.
  • A True Bakery-Style Dessert – This is your chance to recreate a famous pastry chef’s masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Oat Cookie Crust:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Pie Crust:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 prepared oat cookie (from above), crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Crack Pie Filling:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup corn powder (ground freeze-dried corn)
  • 1/4 cup milk powder
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 large egg yolks
  • Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Oat Cookie

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the egg yolk and mix for another minute.
  4. Stir in the flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until a dough forms.
  5. Spread the dough evenly on the baking sheet to about 1/4-inch thickness.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes until golden brown. Let cool completely.
  7. Once cooled, break the cookie into pieces and blend into fine crumbs using a food processor.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

  1. In a bowl, mix the oat cookie crumbs with brown sugar, salt, and melted butter until combined.
  2. Press the mixture firmly into a pie dish, forming an even layer on the bottom and sides.
  3. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Step 3: Make the Crack Pie Filling

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the sugars, salt, corn powder, and milk powder.
  3. Pour in the melted butter and mix until smooth.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
  5. Add the egg yolks and whisk on low speed until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
  2. Bake for 20 minutes at 350°F, then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F.
  3. Keep the oven door slightly open for 5 minutes, then close it and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the filling is golden and slightly jiggly in the center.
  4. Let the pie cool completely before refrigerating for at least 3 hours.
  5. Before serving, dust with confectioners’ sugar.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store the pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Food processor
  • Pie dish
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Pairing Suggestions

  • Drinks: Serve with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or even a bourbon-based cocktail for a sophisticated twist.
  • Dessert Pairing: Pair with vanilla bean ice cream or fresh berries to complement the richness of the pie.

FAQs

1. What makes Crack Pie different from a regular custard pie?

Crack Pie has a unique oat cookie crust, and the filling is denser and more caramelized compared to traditional custard pies. The balance of salty and sweet makes it incredibly addictive.

2. Can I make Crack Pie ahead of time?

Yes! This pie actually tastes better when chilled overnight, so making it a day ahead is ideal.

3. What can I use as a substitute for corn powder?

If you don’t have freeze-dried corn, you can substitute it with an equal amount of cornstarch, though the flavor won’t be as deep.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and use certified gluten-free oats.

5. Why does my pie seem too runny?

If your filling is too runny, it may need more baking time. The pie should still have a slight jiggle in the center when done, but it will firm up as it cools in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Milk Bar Crack Pie is a must-try for any dessert lover. With its crunchy oat cookie crust and gooey, buttery filling, it’s no wonder this pie has a cult following. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

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