As the holiday season approaches, the kitchen becomes a magical realm filled with enticing aromas and the promise of joyful gatherings. This year, let’s create a masterpiece with the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, a festive delight that seamlessly combines a tart cranberry filling with a nutty crunch from pecans atop a dreamy cake layer. Not only is this dessert simple to whip up, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds! The best part? It’s easily adaptable, so you can customize it to fit your dietary needs, including gluten-free options. Ready to spread some holiday cheer? Dive in, and let me share how to make this delightful pie that’s sure to become a cherished tradition! What’s your favorite holiday dessert?
What Makes This Pie So Special?
Irresistible Flavor: The tartness of fresh cranberries perfectly balances with the sweet, moist cake layer, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
Easy Adaptability: Whether you’re looking for gluten-free options or want to swap out pecans for walnuts, this recipe allows for effortless substitutions to fit your dietary preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and watch it disappear at your next holiday gathering!
Simple Steps: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers will find success, making it a great choice if you’ve been craving homemade warmth over fast food.
Unique Twist on Tradition: This pie redefines holiday desserts, bringing a unique texture and taste that will leave everyone reminiscing about your culinary skills.
Elevate your holiday dessert table and consider checking out my other festive recipes like Apple Cider Whoopie Pies for sweet inspiration!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Ingredients
Get ready to create a festive masterpiece!
For the Filling
- Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Provides the tart and juicy filling; fresh yields the best flavor, but frozen can be used without thawing.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling and balances tartness; adjust the amount according to your sweetness preference.
- Pecans or Almonds – Adds delightful crunch and nuttiness; feel free to substitute with other nuts or omit for a nut-free option.
For the Cake Layer
- Unsalted Butter – Moistens the cake layer, offering a rich flavor; make sure to soften it beforehand.
- Eggs – Acts as a binding agent, contributing to the structure; use large eggs for best results.
- Almond or Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; choose based on your personal taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates a sturdy cake layer; substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Salt – Balances and enhances all other flavors in the pie.
With these ingredients, your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie will be a beautiful festive dessert that everyone will love!
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 warms up, grease a 9-inch pie plate with butter to prevent sticking. Next, evenly spread fresh or frozen cranberries in the bottom of the prepared pie plate. Sprinkle the cranberries with chopped pecans and half a cup of granulated sugar for that sweet-and-tart balance.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with one cup of granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. This step adds a rich texture that will support your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie’s cake layer.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Extract
Gradually add the almond or vanilla extract to the butter mixture, followed by the eggs, one at a time. Continue beating on medium speed until everything is well combined and fluffy, approximately 4 minutes. The butter and egg mixture should be light and airy, creating a lovely foundation for the cake layer atop the cranberries.
Step 4: Mix Flour and Salt
Lower the mixer speed to low and gently add the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the texture light. You’re aiming for a sticky batter that’s ready to spread over the cranberry layer of your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, which will bake into a beautiful cake atop the fruity filling.
Step 5: Spread the Batter
Carefully spread the sticky batter evenly over the cranberries and pecans in the pie plate. You can use a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure the batter is spread out without disturbing the cranberry layer beneath. This ensures every slice will have an even distribution of flavors in your delightful pie.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on the pie during the last few minutes to prevent overbaking, ensuring that the cake layer remains moist and delicious for your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. For the best experience, serve the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This creamy topping will perfectly complement the tart cranberries and rich cake, making each bite heavenly.
What to Serve with Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
As the holiday spirit fills the air, pair this delightful dessert with complementary flavors that will elevate your gathering.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture balances the tartness of the pie, making each bite a perfect harmony of flavors. A scoop of ice cream melts slightly over the warm pie, creating a deliciously inviting dessert experience.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a touch of elegance that complements the dense cake layer, enhancing sweetness without overpowering the cranberry tartness.
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Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of mint provides a refreshing contrast, brightening the dish and adding a pop of color to your holiday dessert table.
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Spiced Hot Apple Cider: A warm, spiced sip ties beautifully with the fruitiness of the pie, inviting comforting aromas to your festive gathering. The flavors of apple and spices will resonate with holiday nostalgia.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Their spicy sweetness offers a lovely contrast to the tartness of the cranberry pie, enhancing the holiday theme and providing variety in texture and flavor on your dessert platter.
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Pecan Pie Squares: For the nut lovers, serve these rich treats alongside for a layered dessert experience. The buttery, nutty flavor complements the cranberries beautifully.
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Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai, with its rich spices and creamy feel, pairs perfectly alongside cranberry pie, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere for your guests.
Indulging in these accompaniments will surely turn your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie into an unforgettable moment for your loved ones.
Helpful Tricks for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
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Fresh Is Best: Always opt for fresh cranberries if possible. If you must use frozen, remember to bake a few extra minutes to ensure they’re properly cooked.
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Perfect Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pie towards the end of the baking time. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so check for doneness at 45 minutes.
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Nut-Free Option: If allergies are a concern, simply omit the pecans or swap them for sunflower seeds. The Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie will still be delicious!
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Mixing Tips: Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour. This keeps the cake layer tender and fluffy.
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Store Smartly: Allow the pie to cool before covering and storing. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to two days or can be refrigerated for longer enjoyment!
Make Ahead Options
These Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cranberry filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar and letting it sit in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors. Additionally, you can pre-mix the cake batter and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days; just make sure to cover it tightly to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to enjoy the pie, simply spread the cake batter over the cranberry layer and bake as instructed for a warm, delectable dessert that will impress your guests. With these make-ahead options, you’ll save time and stress during the busy holiday season!
Storage Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Room Temperature: Keep the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you need it to last longer, store the pie in the refrigerator, where it can be kept for up to 5 days while still tasting fantastic.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality.
Reheating: To enjoy later, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (176°C) until warmed through. This will restore its tempting freshness, making your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie just as delightful as the day you baked it!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delicious pie to suit your taste!
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Nut-Free: Omit pecans entirely or swap them out for sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts!
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Flavor Variation: Try using maple extract for a unique twist! The rich flavor pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries.
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Sweetness Control: Adjust the sugar content by reducing or increasing it to find your perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free tweak! Enjoy the same fluffy cake layer without the gluten.
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Berry Medley: Mix in blueberries or raspberries with the cranberries for a burst of flavors that will truly elevate your pie.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, comforting spice that perfectly complements the cranberries.
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Lemon Zing: Stir in some fresh lemon zest into the cranberry filling for a refreshing citrus kick that brightens up the flavor!
As you dive into your baking adventure, why not serve this pie alongside other festive treats? You could pair it with a delectable Apple Cider Whoopie Pies for a delightful dessert spread.
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh cranberries when making your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie. They offer a wonderfully tart and juicy filling. If fresh is not available, you can use frozen cranberries without thawing them, but just keep an eye on your baking time as it may need to be extended slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
You can keep your pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal taste and texture. If you want it to last a bit longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Make sure it is wrapped or stored in an airtight container to maintain its deliciousness.
Can I freeze the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze this pie for up to 3 months. To do this, allow the pie to cool completely after baking, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and then warm it in the oven at 350°F (176°C) until heated through.
What if my cake layer is too dry when baking?
If you find that your cake layer seems dry after baking, it may be due to overmixing the batter or overbaking the pie. To avoid this, be careful when incorporating the flour into the batter—mix until just combined. Also, always start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time to ensure moistness.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
For those with nut allergies, you can simply omit the pecans or use seeds like sunflower seeds as a replacement. Additionally, as the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie can be made with gluten-free flour, it’s adaptable for gluten-sensitive family members. Just be sure to check your ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I modify the sweetness of the pie?
Very much! You can adjust the amount of granulated sugar in the filling according to your taste preference. If you’d like it sweeter, add a little more sugar; for a more tart flavor, reduce the sugar. Feel free to experiment until you find the perfect balance for your palate!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie: A Festive Family Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and grease a 9-inch pie plate with butter. Spread fresh or frozen cranberries in the bottom of the plate.
- Sprinkle the cranberries with chopped pecans and half a cup of granulated sugar.
- In a medium bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and one cup of granulated sugar for 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add almond or vanilla extract, followed by eggs one at a time, beating until well combined and fluffy.
- Mix in all-purpose flour and salt on low speed until just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly over the cranberries and pecans.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let it cool slightly before serving warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
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