The moment the first chill of winter settles in, I start dreaming of festive flavors and cherished family traditions. December brings with it nostalgic memories of bustling kitchens filled with the sweet-tart aroma of fresh cranberries, and that’s where my Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie comes into play. This delightful dessert not only serves as a beautiful centerpiece for your Christmas table, but it’s also incredibly quick to prepare—which means more time to enjoy laughter and holiday cheer! Plus, with gluten-free options available, everyone can join in on this seasonal indulgence. So, why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your dessert game with this irresistible pie? Are you ready to impress your family this holiday season?
Why is this pie a holiday favorite?
Festive Flavor: This Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie combines luscious tart cranberries with a hint of sweetness, creating a mouthwatering experience that embodies the spirit of Christmas.
Quick Preparation: You’ll love how simple this recipe is—ideal for busy holiday schedules yet fancy enough to wow your guests.
Versatile Ingredients: With options for gluten-free and nut-free variations, this pie ensures everyone can indulge in festive delight.
A Showstopper: Impress your family and friends at holiday gatherings with this stunning dessert, perfect for a cozy Christmas table.
Delicious Warm: Serve it hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—each bite is a festive treat everyone will crave! Don’t forget to check out my Pumpkin Pie Tacos for another creative holiday dessert!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Filling
- Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Offer the ideal tartness that defines the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie; you can use frozen without thawing!
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cranberries; adjust based on the tartness for that perfect balance.
- Pecans or Almonds – Adds a delightful crunch; easily swap it out to suit nut-free diets.
For the Batter
- Unsalted Butter – Provides a rich, creamy base; remember to soften it before mixing!
- Eggs – Acts as a binder; medium to large eggs work best for this recipe.
- Almond or Vanilla Extract – Choose your favorite to enhance the pie’s flavor profile.
- All-purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the pie; a gluten-free flour blend can be substituted for gluten-free options.
- Salt – Elevates the overall taste; a small but crucial ingredient in baking.
For Serving (optional)
- Vanilla Ice Cream or Whipped Cream – A delightful addition that pairs beautifully with the warm pie and enhances the festive experience!
Embrace the warmth of the holiday season with this delightful Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at your Christmas celebration!
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 the oven warms, butter a 9-inch pie plate generously to prevent sticking. Spread the cranberries evenly in the bottom of the plate, then sprinkle them with chopped pecans and sugar, creating a colorful base that will add layers of flavor to your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer to beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it’s smooth and creamy, with a pale color. This step builds a rich foundation for your batter that complements the tangy cranberries beautifully.
Step 3: Mix in Extract and Eggs
Next, add your choice of almond or vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until you achieve a fluffy consistency. This aeration is vital, as it helps the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie rise beautifully while ensuring a delightful texture.
Step 4: Combine Flour and Salt
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and salt into the buttery mixture, mixing at low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; the batter should remain slightly sticky. This combination creates the body of the pie, gradually enveloping the cranberries for that iconic, moist center that defines your festive dessert.
Step 5: Spread the Batter
Once your batter is ready, gently spread it evenly over the cranberry and pecan mixture in the pie plate. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring that the cranberries are fully covered. This batter will rise during baking, creating a lovely, cake-like top layer that melds flawlessly with the tart filling, making your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie truly scrumptious.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes, looking for a golden brown top and a toothpick inserted into the center coming out with a few moist crumbs. This visual cue indicates that your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is perfectly cooked and ready to impress your holiday guests.
Step 7: Cooling and Serving
Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period allows the flavors to meld and the pie to set, making it easier to slice. Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, to enhance your festive experience with each delicious bite.
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own!
- Nut-Free: Omit pecans or almonds entirely for a crunchy-free version, allowing the bright cranberries to shine.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy this festive treat!
- Berry Medley: Mix in a handful of blueberries or raspberries along with the cranberries for a delightful twist on flavor and color.
- Citrus Kick: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter for a fragrant and zesty aroma that brightens the pie.
- Maple Sweetener: Swap granulated sugar for pure maple syrup for a warm, earthy sweetness that enhances the cranberry flavor beautifully.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter, bringing warm spices that remind you of holiday baking traditions.
- Tropical Surprise: Add chopped pineapple or mango to the cranberries for a tropical twist that will delight everyone’s palate.
- Serving Suggestions: Top the warm pie with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an added indulgence! If you’re looking for more creative dessert ideas, check out my Pumpkin Pie Tacos or plan an amazing holiday meal with a side of Cheddar Bay Pie.
Expert Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
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Fresh Is Best: Use fresh cranberries whenever possible for optimal flavor; if using frozen, don’t thaw to maintain texture.
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Mind the Time: Avoid overbaking! Check doneness 5 minutes early to ensure a moist and tender Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
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Toast for Flavor: If using nuts, toast the pecans or almonds at 350°F before adding them to the pie for a richer, nuttier taste.
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Perfect Sweetness: Adjust the sugar based on how tart your cranberries are; taste the filling if unsure to find the right balance.
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Gluten-Free Swap: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep everyone happy.
Storage Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Room Temperature: Store the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. This helps preserve its delightful texture and taste.
Freezer: Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before bringing it to room temperature for serving.
Reheating: To enjoy the pie warm again, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or microwave for about 30 seconds—just until warmed through!
What to Serve with Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Indulging in a slice of this festive pie is just the beginning of your cozy Christmas feast—let’s elevate your dessert experience!
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The coolness of ice cream beautifully contrasts the warm pie, creating a delightful balance of flavors and texture.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a luxurious finishing touch, enhancing the pie’s festive appeal and richness.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Serve alongside these spiced treats for a holiday twist, amplifying the flavors of the pie with warm spices that evoke nostalgia.
- Hot Apple Cider: This warm drink infuses your gathering with aromatic spices, making each bite and sip a comforting holiday ritual.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate over the pie creates an indulgent experience; the richness of chocolate complements the tart cranberries perfectly.
- Pecan Tarts: Pairing mini pecan tarts adds a crunchy, sweet element, harmonizing nicely with the flavors and textures of the cranberry pie.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A zesty fruit salad provides brightness and freshness, balancing the rich, decadent pie with its lightness and seasonal charm.
- Nutty Brewed Coffee: Serve a steaming cup of coffee, enhanced with a hint of nutty flavor. It pairs perfectly with the sweet-tart notes of the cranberry pie while warming chilly hands.
- Mulled Wine: Offering mulled wine brings warmth and festive cheer, inviting guests into laughter and nostalgia as they savor each bite of pie.
Make Ahead Options
This Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the cranberry and pecan filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the cranberries, chopped nuts, and sugar in the pie plate and cover tightly with plastic wrap to keep everything fresh. Additionally, the batter can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just spread the chilled batter over the filling and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without the stress!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries provide the best flavor, with their tartness perfectly complementing the pie’s sweetness. If fresh isn’t available, frozen cranberries can be used straight from the freezer without thawing. They will retain their juicy goodness as they cook!
How should I store Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Store your pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days if you plan to enjoy it quickly. For longer storage, transfer it to the refrigerator, covered, where it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Make sure to allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Can I freeze Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for around 30 minutes before serving.
What should I do if my pie comes out dry?
Very good question! If your pie turns out dry, make sure to check the baking time next time—bake just until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, about 45-50 minutes, to ensure it retains moisture. If you suspect your oven runs hot, consider lowering the temperature by 25°F and checking for doneness earlier!
Is this pie suitable for people with nut allergies?
Indeed! You can easily make Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie nut-free by omitting the pecans or almonds entirely. Just focus on the cranberries and sugar, and it will still be delightful! Always double-check your ingredient labels to ensure there are no hidden nut traces.
How can I make this pie gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Follow the recipe as stated, and enjoy the same wonderful flavors while accommodating gluten-free diets. Happy baking!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie for a Cozy Christmas Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C). Butter a 9-inch pie plate, add cranberries, sprinkle with pecans and sugar.
- In a bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in your chosen extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly each time to achieve a fluffy consistency.
- Gradually sift in the flour and salt, mixing at low speed until just combined. Batter should be slightly sticky.
- Spread the batter evenly over the cranberry mixture in the pie plate with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
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