The warmth of the kitchen fills the air as the delicious aroma of cinnamon and baked apples begins to swirl around me—there’s something magical about that moment. Today, I’m thrilled to share my beloved Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie, a recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a holiday masterpiece. It's not only a quick prep treat but also a stunning dessert that’s bound to impress your family and friends. Picture serving up a slice of this pie at your next gathering, the combination of tart cranberries and sweet apples creating a colorful centerpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Are you ready to bring joy and comfort to your holiday table with this delightful pie? Let’s dive in!
Why is this pie a must-try?
Unique Flavor Combination: The tart cranberries paired with sweet apples create a delicious balance, making every bite a festive delight.
Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, you’ll have more time to enjoy the holiday festivities.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This pie is perfect for family gatherings or holiday parties, sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Beautiful Presentation: Once baked, the golden crust and colorful filling create a stunning centerpiece that will impress your guests.
Comforting Aroma: As it bakes, the scent of cinnamon and baked fruit will fill your home, evoking cozy holiday memories.
Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie Ingredients
• Let’s gather what we need for this delightful treat!
For the Filling
- Fresh cranberries – these add the perfect tartness to balance the sweetness of the apples.
- Diced apples – choose a mix of sweet and tart varieties for deeper flavor.
- Granulated sugar – it sweetens the filling; feel free to adjust based on your apple variety.
- Cornstarch – this thickens the filling, ensuring a slice that holds together nicely.
- Ground cinnamon – it introduces warm spice, making each bite taste like the holidays.
- Ground nutmeg – a pinch adds a cozy depth and complements the cinnamon beautifully.
- Lemon juice – to brighten the flavors and enhance the apple and cranberry taste.
For the Crust
- Pie crusts – use store-bought for convenience or make your own for a personal touch.
- Beaten egg – this egg wash gives the crust its golden, shiny finish.
Use these ingredients to craft the perfect Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie that will warm hearts and bellies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Begin this delightful journey by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven reaches the perfect temperature for our Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie, allowing it to bake evenly and beautifully. While the oven warms up, gather your mixing bowl and the ingredients needed for the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of fresh cranberries and 3 cups of diced apples. Sprinkle in 1 cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir gently until the fruit is well coated, creating a colorful, fragrant mixture that will be the star of your pie.
Step 3: Roll out the first crust
Take one of your pie crusts and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Carefully fit the rolled crust into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring it covers the bottom and edges evenly. Don’t worry if it tears a little; you can patch it up easily. This crust will hold our luscious filling, so make it cozy!
Step 4: Fill the crust
Pour the prepared filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Make sure every inch of the crust is filled with that beautiful combination of apples and cranberries. The colors should look vibrant and inviting, hinting at the deliciousness that awaits when you slice into the Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie.
Step 5: Add the top crust
Roll out the second pie crust and carefully place it over the filling, ensuring it covers the pie completely. Use your fingers to seal the edges firmly, crimping them for a decorative touch. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking, giving your pie a homey touch. Brush the top with a beaten egg for that perfect golden glaze.
Step 6: Bake the pie
Slide your pie into the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the crust should turn golden brown and the filling should be bubbly, showcasing the fruit's juicy goodness. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning and ensure a perfect bake every time.
Step 7: Cool before serving
Once baked to perfection, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This cooling time allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve those delicious slices of your Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie. The wait will excite everyone as they anticipate that first sweet and tart bite!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie
Fridge: Store your pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh and prevent drying out.
Freezer: If you want to keep leftovers longer, the pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, bake the thawed pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This helps restore the crust's crispiness.
Serving Tips: If the pie has been frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture of your Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie!
Expert Tips for the Best Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use the freshest cranberries and apples for maximum flavor. Overripe or mushy fruit can affect the pie's texture and taste.
- Balance Sweetness: Adjust the sugar depending on the tartness of your apples. Some varieties, like Granny Smith, may need less sugar than sweeter ones.
- Prevent Soggy Crust: To keep your crust crispy, sprinkle a little cornstarch on the bottom crust before adding the filling. This absorbs excess moisture from the fruit.
- Steam Release: Always remember to cut slits in the top crust. This allows steam to escape, helping the filling to cook evenly and avoiding sogginess.
- Cooling Time: Let the pie cool before slicing. This helps the filling set, preventing it from running when you cut into your beautiful Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie.
Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie Variations
Customize your delicious pie with these exciting twists and substitutions that will make every slice unique!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crusts instead of traditional ones for a gluten-free delight that everyone can enjoy.
- Spice Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of ground ginger for a warm, spicy kick that complements the apples perfectly.
- Nutty Crust: Mix ground nuts into your pie crust for added flavor and crunch, making each bite extra special.
- Berry Boost: Incorporate 1 cup of blueberries alongside the cranberries for a delightful berry medley that enhances the filling’s sweetness.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the egg wash with almond milk for a vegan-friendly crust that’s still golden and gorgeous.
- Caramel Drizzle: After baking, drizzle caramel sauce over the top for a rich, sweet topping that will wow your guests.
- Citrus Zest: Grate in some orange zest for a fresh, citrusy twist that brightens the flavors even more.
- Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for an unexpected spicy surprise that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Let your creativity shine and make this pie a personal favorite!
What to Serve with Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie
Picture your holiday table, filled with warmth and laughter, as you create a feast around your beautiful pie masterpiece!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop on top brings a creamy contrast to the warm, tart flavors of your pie.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it adds a delightful touch of sweetness that complements the buttery crust.
- Cinnamon Spiced Coffee: The warmth of spiced coffee pairs perfectly with the scents of apple and cranberry, enhancing the cozy atmosphere.
- Candied Pecans: Their crunchy sweetness offers a delightful textural contrast to the soft filling, making bites even more enjoyable.
- Cheddar Cheese Slices: The sharpness of cheddar contrasts the sweetness, creating a perfect balance that sweet pie aficionados will love.
- Caramel Drizzle: A touch of rich caramel sauce drizzled over the pie adds decadence and enhances the apple flavor beautifully.
- Mulled Wine: Sipping on spiced mulled wine fills the room with comforting aromas, making it a holiday favorite alongside the pie.
- Apple Cider: Warm or cold, it echoes the pie's flavors, creating a harmonious pairing that celebrates the season.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Cranberry Holiday Pies are perfect for busy home cooks wanting to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the cranberries, diced apples, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can assemble the entire pie (steps 3 to 5) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent the crust from getting soggy. When you're ready to bake, simply brush it with egg wash and pop it in the oven, adjusting the bake time as needed to ensure that golden perfection. Enjoy the ease of having this stunning dessert ready to impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort!
Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best apples for this pie?
For the best results, choose a mix of sweet and tart apples—like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination gives your Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie a more complex flavor, enhancing both sweetness and tartness. Look for firm apples with no bruises or soft spots.
What’s the best way to store leftover pie?
Absolutely! Store your Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain its freshness. If you'd like to enjoy it later, consider freezing it for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze the pie before baking?
Yes, you can! To freeze, prepare the pie as directed but don’t bake it. Wrap the unbaked pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It’s best to bake it from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to your baking time at 375°F (190°C) for a freshly baked taste.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
Very good question! Your Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie is done when the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling around the slits in the top crust. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can cover them with foil to prevent burning while the center finishes baking.
Can this pie be made allergen-friendly?
Certainly! For a gluten-free Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie, use gluten-free pie crusts. Additionally, if you're concerned about allergies, feel free to substitute the sugar with a natural sweetener, keeping in mind that it may affect the overall sweetness and texture. Always double-check labels for allergens related to your chosen ingredients.
How long should I let the pie cool before slicing?
I recommend letting your pie cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This cooling time allows the filling to set properly, making it easier to serve beautiful, clean slices of your Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie without the filling spilling out. Enjoy!
Delicious Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie for Cozy Gatherings
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- pie dish
- Rolling Pin
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups fresh cranberries adds tartness
- 3 cups diced apples mix of sweet and tart varieties
- 1 cup granulated sugar adjust based on apple variety
- ¼ cup cornstarch thickens the filling
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon adds warm spice
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg adds cozy depth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice brightens flavors
For the Crust
- 1 beaten egg for egg wash gives golden finish
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of fresh cranberries and 3 cups of diced apples. Sprinkle in 1 cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir gently until well coated.
- Roll out one of your pie crusts on a lightly floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Pour the prepared filling into the pie crust evenly.
- Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Seal the edges and cut slits in the top crust.
- Brush the top crust with a beaten egg and slide into the oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the pie cool for 20 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.
