“Did you hear about that amazing pie at last year’s Christmas gathering?” The question hovers in the air, sparking curiosity and tantalizing taste buds. That pie was none other than the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, a festive delight that beautifully marries tart cranberries with crunchy pecans and a tender, cake-like layer. Preparing this delectable dessert is a breeze, making it perfect for holiday celebrations when we’re all juggling last-minute details. What makes it even better? It can be made gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice of the magic. Serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is an invitation to embrace the season’s warmth and joy. Ready to impress your loved ones with this stunning treat? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Choose Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Simplicity: This pie is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Flavor Explosion: The contrasting tartness of cranberries paired with the nuttiness of pecans creates a beautifully balanced and irresistible taste.
Versatility: Whether you opt for fresh or frozen cranberries, this recipe adjusts easily to fit your pantry items and preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream, and watch your loved ones rave about this holiday dessert; it’s sure to become a festive favorite!
For more delightful holiday ideas, check out Crumbl Pumpkin Pie or the blissfully decadent Vegan Pecan Pie to elevate your holiday dessert table!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Ingredients
• Get ready to create the ultimate festive treat!
For the Filling
- Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – The star of the show, offering a burst of tartness; frozen cranberries can be used directly without thawing but may need extra baking time.
- Granulated Sugar – Balances the tartness of cranberries and sweetens the pie to perfection.
- Pecans or Almonds – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; feel free to use what’s on hand!
For the Batter
- Unsalted Butter – Gives richness to the pie; soft butter will make mixing simpler.
- Eggs – Provides moisture and binds all ingredients together; using room-temperature eggs ensures smooth incorporation.
- Almond Extract or Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; choose based on your personal taste preference.
- All-Purpose Flour – Essential for creating a tender crumb; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free Nantucket holiday cranberry pie.
- Salt – A little helps to balance the sweetness and elevate the overall flavor.
Feel free to explore variations or substitutions to make this recipe truly your own! Enjoy every moment of baking this delightful dessert.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C). While it heats, butter a 9-inch pie plate generously to prevent sticking. Once prepared, evenly spread the fresh or frozen cranberries in the pie plate, ensuring they are well-distributed, and sprinkle with half a cup of granulated sugar. This step sets the foundation for the sweet-tart filling of your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, take your softened unsalted butter and add 1 cup of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The color will lighten, and the texture will smooth out, making for a rich batter that will elevate your pie’s flavor.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Extract
Next, add your choice of almond or vanilla extract to the buttery mixture, followed by the eggs, one at a time. Continue mixing on medium speed after each addition until fully incorporated. This should take about 1-2 minutes. The mixture will become creamy and blend together beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor of your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; you want to avoid over-mixing to keep the pie tender. The batter will be sticky but will come together seamlessly. This step forms the lovely cake-like layer that will encase the cranberries.
Step 5: Spread the Batter
Using a spatula, gently spread the prepared batter evenly over the cranberries in the pie plate. Make sure to cover the cranberries completely for even baking. This step is crucial as it creates the crust-like top layer for the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, ensuring each slice has the perfect blend of textures.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, indicating a tender but set pie. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and a delightful aroma fills your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cranberry pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15-20 minutes. This cooling time helps the flavors meld together. Finally, slice the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie and serve it warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a festive touch that everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Room Temperature: Store the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, ensuring it remains fresh and delicious without refrigeration.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, place the pie in the refrigerator where it can stay fresh for up to 5 days; cover it to prevent drying out and absorbing odors.
Freezer: For longer storage, this Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight before serving it warm; reheating in the oven for a few minutes adds to its delightful texture!
What to Serve with Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
There’s nothing quite like rounding out your dessert table with delightful accompaniments that elevate your festively warm pie and make every slice memorable.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness, perfectly balancing the tartness of the cranberries.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream enhances the pie with its smooth texture, making each slice even more indulgent.
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Cinnamon Spiced Coffee: A warm cup of this fragrant brew complements the pie’s flavors, providing a cozy, festive touch for sipping alongside dessert.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate over each slice adds a rich, decadent flair that harmonizes beautifully with the pie’s tartness.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel can transform your serving, adding a sweet, buttery richness that enhances the overall experience.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and a textural contrast, bringing a burst of freshness alongside each bite of pie.
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Spiced Glühwein: Serve this warm spiced wine as a delightful holiday drink option that warms the heart and perfectly complements the festive flavors.
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Cheese Plate: A selection of sharp and creamy cheeses can create an interesting contrast, allowing the flavors of the pie to shine even brighter.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a beautiful spread that will delight your guests and enhance the magic of the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie!
Make Ahead Options
These Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cranberry and pecan filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar, store them covered in the refrigerator, and this bright filling will be ready to go. Additionally, you can whip up the batter a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When the time comes to serve, just spread the batter over the cranberry mixture and pop it in the oven. Your pie remains just as delicious and flavorful, ensuring you can enjoy time with loved ones without stress!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize this delightful pie to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Nutty Alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunchy flavor. Each nut brings its own unique taste to the table!
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Fruit Forward: Increase the quantity of cranberries for an extra tart kick or add a handful of blueberries for a burst of sweetness. The combination of flavors can invigorate your palate!
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Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Your gluten-sensitive friends won’t miss out on this festive treat!
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Sweet Spice: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter to warm up the flavors, giving it that cozy holiday vibe. These warm spices will infuse the pie with a comforting aroma.
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the batter for a zesty twist that brightens the cranberry filling. This citrus touch adds a refreshing lift!
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Cranberry Jam: Stir in a few tablespoons of cranberry jam into the filling for added sweetness and richness. It creates a beautifully glistening layer that’s irresistible!
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Chilled Variant: For a refreshing option, serve the pie chilled with whipped cream on top during warm gatherings. The coolness will provide a delightful contrast to the flavors!
For more variations and luscious dessert ideas, don’t miss out on our Pecan Pie Dump for a twist on a classic or the vibrant Apple Cider Whoopie for a playful treat!
Expert Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
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Cranberry Selection: Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor; avoid dried cranberries, which won’t give the same tartness and texture.
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Baking Precision: Keep an eye on the pie during the last 5 minutes of baking; overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so aim for a few moist crumbs when testing for doneness.
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Nut Choices: Feel free to play around with different nuts, such as walnuts or pecans; just be cautious of allergies when serving.
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Gluten-Free Swap: To make a gluten-free Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend; ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute for optimal results.
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Serving Suggestions: For a delightful experience, serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream; the contrast of warm pie and cold toppings elevates the dessert!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs
What kind of cranberries should I use for this pie?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries are ideal for the best flavor, offering the perfect tartness. However, frozen cranberries can also work beautifully—you can use them straight from the freezer without thawing, just be aware they may require an additional 5 minutes of baking time to ensure the pie cooks through properly.
How should I store leftover Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
I often recommend storing any leftover pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it where it will stay fresh for about 5 days. Just keep it covered to prevent it from drying out or taking on any odors from the fridge!
Can I freeze leftover cranberry pie?
Very! Freezing is a great option if you want to save it for later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This way, it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that delicious texture.
What should I do if my pie is too dry after baking?
If you find your pie turns out a bit dry, it might be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on it during the last 5 minutes; aim for moist crumbs with your toothpick test. If it does happen, try serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream, which can add moisture back into each delightful bite!
Is there a gluten-free option for the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Yes, there definitely is! You can easily make this pie gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the brand you choose works well for baking. This way, everyone can enjoy this festive treat, regardless of dietary needs!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie That’s Simply Irresistible
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and butter a 9-inch pie plate. Evenly spread cranberries and sprinkle with 0.5 cup sugar.
- In a bowl, cream 0.5 cup butter with 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add almond or vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until creamy.
- Slowly mix in 1.5 cups flour and 0.5 teaspoon salt until just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly over the cranberries in the pie plate.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool for 15-20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
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