Cranberry Pie: A Tart and Sweet Delight
This Cranberry Pie is a deliciously tart and sweet dessert that will capture the hearts of your family and friends. Made with fresh cranberries and a buttery, flaky crust, this pie bursts with the delightful flavors of autumn and winter. Indulge in its vibrant color and refreshing taste, perfect for festive gatherings and cozy dinners alike.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pie Recipe
This Cranberry Pie recipe is a must-have for any holiday table, offering a unique twist on classic pies. The contrast of the tart cranberries and the sweet filling creates an irresistible balance of flavors. Plus, it’s an excellent way to showcase the fresh produce of the season. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply craving a dessert that’s both refreshing and comforting, this pie is sure to please every palate.
One of the best features of this pie is its simplicity. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice bakers will find success. The combination of tangy cranberries with a hint of spice from a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg makes this pie unique and memorable.
Context/Background
Cranberry pie has roots in American cuisine, especially prominent in regions where cranberries are native. The technique of combining tart fruits with sugar and baking them in a crust can be traced back to early European settlers who adapted the method using local ingredients available to them. This pie not only celebrates the cranberry harvest but also pays homage to traditional baking techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Recipe Details
Serves: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 prepared pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and cinnamon. Stir occasionally until cranberries burst and mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Roll out your pie crust and press it into a 9-inch pie pan. Pour the cranberry mixture into the crust.
- Cover the pie with a lattice top or a second crust, sealing the edges.
- Brush the crust with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool before serving to set the filling.
Tips for Perfect Cranberry Pie
- Use fresh cranberries for the best texture and flavor, but frozen can work if thawed and drained properly.
- Adjust sugar levels according to your taste or the tartness of the cranberries.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cranberry Pie warm or at room temperature alongside freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance its sweet and tart flavor. It’s perfect as a dessert for holiday gatherings or a special treat during cozy winter evenings.
Storage and Leftovers
Store leftover cranberry pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving, if desired, to restore the fresh-baked texture and warmth.
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a dessert that stands out with its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation, this Cranberry Pie is the perfect choice. Simple to make yet visually stunning, it’s a great way to impress your guests with minimal effort. Indulge in this pie’s delicious layers of sweet and tart, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow.
Recipe Notes
- For variations, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the filling for added texture.
- If using store-bought crust, follow package instructions for blind baking, if necessary.
- Add a teaspoon of ground nutmeg for an extra spice kick, if desired.