The aroma of cranberries gently bubbling in the oven is enough to transport anyone to a festive holiday gathering, and my Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie does just that. This delightful dessert combines a juicy cranberry filling with crunchy pecans and a cake-like layer on top. Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to whip up, but it also serves as a show-stopping centerpiece for your Christmas table. Whether you’re a lifelong lover of cranberries or somewhat hesitant about their tartness, this pie is sure to win everyone over—especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream! Curious to learn the secret behind this holiday favorite? Let’s dive in!
Why is Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: This pie masterfully balances sweet and tart with its juicy cranberry filling and crunchy pecans, making it a festive delight.
Effortlessly Simple: Even if you’re a beginner, easy baking steps ensure you won’t feel overwhelmed as you create something special.
Versatile Pairing: It’s the perfect dessert to serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra festive touch, catering to all taste buds.
Make-Ahead Magic: Ideal for busy holiday seasons, this recipe can be prepped ahead and stored, allowing you more time to enjoy gatherings.
Whether you’re exploring Christmas recipes or simply seeking a standout dessert, this Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is a beautiful centerpiece that will leave your guests asking for seconds!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Ingredients
This delightful pie is easy to make and filled with flavors that celebrate the season!
For the Cranberry Filling
- Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Provides the natural tartness this pie is known for; avoid dried cranberries for best results.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; adjust to taste based on the tartness of your cranberries.
For the Topping
- Pecans or Almonds – Adds a satisfying crunch; to elevate the flavor, consider toasting them beforehand.
- Unsalted Butter – Ensures a rich, moist texture for the topping; don’t substitute with salted butter to maintain flavor balance.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients together and adds richness; large eggs yield the best results.
- Almond or Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; feel free to experiment with different extracts if you like.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the pie; no gluten-free alternative is specified in this recipe.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pie Plate
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C). While it’s heating up, grease a 9-inch pie plate with butter or cooking spray to ensure the pie easily releases after baking. Layer fresh or frozen cranberries evenly on the bottom of the pie plate, then sprinkle chopped pecans and half a cup of sugar over the top, creating a fruity base for your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with a full cup of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed and beat the mixture until it is smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it adds air to the mixture, helping to create a light texture in the pie’s topping.
Step 3: Incorporate Flavor and Eggs
Next, add either almond or vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, along with the eggs—add them one at a time. Mix on medium speed until the batter is fluffy, which should take another 2-3 minutes. This ensures that every bite of your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is packed with delightful flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Continue mixing until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be sticky and relatively thick, ready to complement the tart cranberries beneath, ensuring a lovely cake-like layer on top.
Step 5: Spread the Batter
Pour the sticky batter over the prepared layer of cranberries and pecans in the pie plate. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top, ensuring all the cranberries are covered. This step is essential, as it creates a beautiful, cake-like crust that will bake to a golden perfection while allowing the cranberry filling to bubble beneath.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking, as you want that perfect balance of crust and filling.
Step 7: Serve Warm with a Treat
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for about 10-15 minutes. This lets the filling set a bit more. Serve your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie warm, and consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra festive and delightful touch!
What to Serve with Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Indulging in the festive delight of cranberry pie opens doors to creating a heartwarming holiday meal experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth texture balances the tartness of the pie, making them a comforting side dish.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These earthy vegetables introduce a wonderful crunch, enriching seasonal flavors that pair perfectly with cranberry’s brightness.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and vibrant, they add a pop of color while providing a sweet contrast to the pie’s tartness.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of mild and sharp cheeses complements the pie’s flavors and invites guests to nibble between bites.
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Mulled Wine: The warm spices in this cozy drink harmonize beautifully with the cranberry notes, creating an inviting holiday atmosphere.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic, melting ice cream over warm pie brings comfort; the creaminess balances the tangy filling wonderfully.
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Ginger Snaps or Speculoos Cookies: Their crispy texture offers a delightful crunch and a touch of warming spice that pairs perfectly with dessert moments.
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Spiced Chai Latte: This aromatic beverage adds warmth and comfort, enhancing the pie experience while offering a rich flavor contrast.
Whether you’re celebrating with family or hosting a gathering, these pairings will enhance your festive feast and leave lasting memories.
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Variations
Feel free to make this delightful pie your own by trying out these variations for a unique twist!
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Nut-Free: Simply leave out the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts.
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Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter to make this pie friendly for a vegan crowd. Enjoy the same scrumptious flavors without sacrificing your dietary choices!
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the batter for warming spices that elevate the flavors beautifully. This little kick adds extra cheer to your festive gathering!
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Citrusy Brightness: Incorporate some orange or lemon zest into the filling for a zesty kick that brightens up the tartness of the cranberries. It creates a delightful flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for your secret ingredient!
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Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Fold in some dark chocolate chips into the batter to bring an indulgent, rich flavor that complements the tart cranberries perfectly. It’s a decadent twist on a holiday classic!
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the warm pie just before serving to add an extra layer of sweetness and a touch of luxurious flair. Imagine that gooey goodness pairing with vanilla ice cream!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy this festive pie while catering to gluten sensitivities. Everyone deserves a tasty slice at the holiday table!
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Berry Medley: Mix in some blueberries or raspberries along with the cranberries for a delightful medley of berries that introduces new flavors and colors into your pie. This not only enhances the visuals but also adds depth to every bite.
Explore these variations, and don’t forget to check out other easy baking recipes or learn how to make delicious homemade vanilla ice cream to pair with your pie!
Expert Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
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Fresh Cranberries Only: Using fresh cranberries is crucial for optimal tartness and moisture. Avoid dried cranberries, as they won’t yield the same results.
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Watch the Baking Time: Overbaking can result in a dry pie. Check for doneness using a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for the best texture.
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Toast the Nuts: To enhance the flavor, toast the pecans or almonds before adding them in. This will bring out their natural oils and give a richer taste to your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and contributes to a better rise.
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Experiment with Extracts: Feel free to switch out almond or vanilla extract for other flavors like hazelnut or coconut for a unique twist that can redefine your classic cranberry pie!
How to Store and Freeze Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Room Temperature: Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover it loosely with foil or wax paper to maintain some moisture while still letting it breathe.
Fridge: Keep the pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to avoid drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For the best taste, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes during the busy holiday season! You can mix the cranberry filling and layer it in the pie plate up to 24 hours in advance, simply covering it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. The batter can also be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, pour the topping over the cranberry mixture and pop it in the preheated oven. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious pie that tastes just as wonderful without the last-minute rush!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use for the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Absolutely! For this recipe, only fresh or frozen cranberries work best. Fresh cranberries provide the tartness and moisture that gives the pie its signature flavor. Avoid using dried cranberries, as they do not offer the same juicy consistency and won’t yield the desired result in this dessert.
How should I store leftovers of the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Very! If you have any leftover pie, you can store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. Just cover it loosely with foil or wax paper. If you’re planning to keep it for longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days, ensuring it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Absolutely! To freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best taste!
What can I do if my Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is too tart?
If you find that your pie is too tart due to the cranberries, consider adjusting the sugar next time. You can add more granulated sugar when preparing the filling or, as a quick fix, serve it with a scoop of sweet vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to help balance the flavors.
Are there any allergy concerns with the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Definitely! This pie contains ingredients that could cause allergies, including eggs, butter (dairy), and nuts (pecans or almonds). If you’re serving guests, make sure to check for nut allergies or lactose intolerance, and feel free to make substitutions such as using a dairy-free butter or omitting the nuts entirely. Always consider everyone’s dietary needs!
What if my cranberries are frozen? Do I need to thaw them first?
Very! When using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them before adding them to your pie. Just toss them directly into the pie plate as instructed. However, be mindful that baked time may increase slightly by about 5-10 minutes, so keep an eye on that lovely golden crust!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie: Sweet & Tart Festive Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and grease a 9-inch pie plate. Layer cranberries at the bottom and sprinkle chopped pecans and sugar over them.
- Combine softened butter with granulated sugar in a mixing bowl and beat until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the extract and eggs one at a time, mixing until fluffy (another 2-3 minutes).
- Gradually mix in flour and salt on low speed until just combined, creating a thick batter.
- Spread the batter over the cranberry and pecan layer, ensuring it's evenly covered.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
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