As the first chill of winter sweeps in, I find myself dreaming of warm, cozy kitchens filled with the scent of baking. That’s where the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie comes into play—a show-stopping dessert that’s not only a festive highlight but also incredibly simple to whip up. Bursting with vibrant cranberries and complemented by crunchy pecans, this pie delivers a delightful balance of tart and sweet flavors. Plus, it’s a treat that can easily accommodate gluten-free diets, making it a versatile choice for your holiday gatherings. Whether you’re hosting family or indulging in a quiet evening, this pie is the perfect way to evoke memorable moments over a shared slice. Curious about how to make it shine on your holiday table? Let’s dive in!
Why is this cranberry pie special?
Simple yet Elegant: The Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is easy to make, perfect for budding chefs eager to impress without stress.
Bursting with Flavor: Expect a delightful mix of tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, balanced beautifully with warm spices.
Gluten-Free Option: Easily adaptable for those with dietary restrictions—just choose a gluten-free flour substitute!
Perfect for Gatherings: This pie is not just a treat; it’s a centerpiece that brings festive cheer to any holiday table. Serve it warm alongside a scoop of ice cream to elevate your holiday experience, much like my popular Apple Cider Whoopie Pies.
Leftovers? No Problem! This pie stores well, allowing you to savor the magic long after the celebrations end.
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
• Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Provides tartness and moisture; frozen cranberries can be used directly without thawing.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the pie and balances the tartness of the cranberries; adjust the quantity based on your sweetness preference.
• Pecans or Almonds – Adds crunch and flavor; feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts or omit altogether.
For the Batter
• Unsalted Butter – Essential for rich flavor and texture; ensure it is softened for easy mixing.
• Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds richness; use room temperature eggs for optimal blending.
• Almond or Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; choose based on personal preference.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the pie; can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C). While the oven is heating, take a 9-inch pie plate and generously butter it to prevent sticking. Next, evenly spread 2 cups of fresh or frozen cranberries over the bottom of the plate, followed by ½ cup of chopped pecans and ½ cup of granulated sugar, creating a colorful base for your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a medium mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, cream the butter and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will create the perfect creamy texture for your pie’s batter, leading to a tender result.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Extract
Next, beat in 2 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the batter is light and fluffy. Add 1 teaspoon of almond or vanilla extract to enhance the flavors, stirring just until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should look creamy and have a hint of sheen, indicating it’s ready for the next step in making your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
Step 4: Add Flour and Salt
Gradually sift in 1 cup of all-purpose flour along with ½ teaspoon of salt into the buttery mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together with a rubber spatula until just combined—be careful not to over-mix. The batter will be sticky and thick, forming the perfect layer to gently cradle your cranberries and pecans when assembled.
Step 5: Spread the Batter
Using a spatula, carefully spread the thick batter evenly over the layer of cranberries and pecans in the prepared pie plate. Aim to cover the cranberries completely, ensuring there are no gaps. This will create a deliciously soft cake-like top for your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie that captures all the flavors in every bite.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place the pie plate in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating the pie is perfectly baked. The top should be golden brown and slightly puffed, making it a festive centerpiece for your holiday table.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Once the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. For a delightful serving suggestion, slice it warm and enjoy with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully for a lovely festive treat.
Storage Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Room Temperature: Store the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps it fresh while allowing its delightful flavors to shine.
Fridge: If not consumed within 2 days, transfer your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie to the refrigerator, where it can last for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s wrapped to maintain its moisture.
Freezer: To enjoy your pie longer, freeze it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To bring back its warm, comforting essence, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy with ice cream for a festive touch!
What to Serve with Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
As the holidays approach, let the warmth of your kitchen fill the air with flavors that harmoniously complement this festive cranberry pie.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious contrast to the tart cranberries, melting into warm pie slices for pure bliss.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, freshly whipped cream enhances the pie’s sweetness, making each bite as comforting as a cozy holiday hug.
- Spiced Pecan Crumble: A crunchy topping of spiced pecans can offer a delightful textural contrast, enhancing the pie’s nutty flavors while adding warmth and spice.
- Homemade Gingerbread Cookies: The rich, molasses flavor of gingerbread cookies pairs beautifully, creating a festive duo full of holiday spirit.
- Hot Cocoa or Mulled Wine: Cozy up with a mug of velvety hot cocoa or spiced mulled wine to round off your dessert experience with warming, festive notes.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of citrus and berries balances the richness of the pie, bringing brightness to your holiday table.
- Coffee or Herbal Tea: Warm beverages like rich coffee or soothing herbal tea offer a comforting end to your meal, bringing out the delightful flavors of the cranberry pie.
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this cranberry pie with exciting twists and substitutions!
- Nut-Free: Omit the nuts altogether for a delightful nut-free version, allowing the cranberries to take center stage.
- Flavor Boost: Enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice touch.
- Apricot Addition: Mix in ½ cup of chopped dried apricots for a sweet contrast with the tart cranberries, adding new dimensions to your pie.
- Maple Sweet: Substitute half of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a rich, caramel-like sweetness that elevates this dessert.
- Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter to brighten the flavors and provide a refreshing zing.
- Berry Mix: Go beyond cranberries by adding 1 cup of blueberries or raspberries for a vibrant berry medley in every bite.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep this pie accessible for those avoiding gluten, without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Serving Ideas: Serve each slice topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream to make it truly festive, reminiscent of my Chicken Pot Pie delight.
Make Ahead Options
These Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to streamline their holiday baking! You can prepare the cranberry and pecan layers up to 24 hours in advance by combining them in the pie plate and covering it tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. To maintain the quality, mix the sugar with the cranberries right before assembling the pie to prevent excess moisture at the bottom. When you’re ready to serve the pie, simply prepare the batter as per the recipe instructions, spread it over the prepped layers, and bake. This way, you’ll enjoy the holiday flavors with minimal effort, saving precious time on busy evenings!
Expert Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cranberries for optimal flavor, but if using frozen, add them directly without thawing for the best results.
- Avoid Overbaking: Check for doneness at 45 minutes to ensure the pie remains moist; a toothpick should have a few moist crumbs when inserted.
- Nut Variations: Consider toasting your nuts before adding them to the filling for extra flavor, or omit them for a nut-free pie option.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure to use room temperature eggs to achieve a smoothly blended batter that enhances the overall texture of the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
- Store Properly: Cover leftover pie at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture in your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie. However, if fresh cranberries are hard to find, frozen cranberries can be used directly without thawing, ensuring a perfectly tart and juicy filling.
How should I store leftover cranberry pie?
The more the merrier! Store your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep those flavors fresh. If you have leftovers beyond that, you can transfer it to the refrigerator, where it will stay good for up to 5 days. Just ensure it’s wrapped properly to maintain its moisture.
Can I freeze this cranberry pie?
Absolutely! To freeze your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Why is my pie not baking evenly?
No worries—this can happen! If your pie is browning too quickly but hasn’t set in the middle, cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the center to finish baking. Make sure to check the doneness around the 45-minute mark using a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Are there any substitutions for allergens?
Very much so! For those with nut allergies, you can completely omit the pecans or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch. Additionally, to make it gluten-free, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour for a deliciously inclusive holiday treat.
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie: A Sweet Festive Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and butter a 9-inch pie plate. Spread 2 cups of cranberries, ½ cup of chopped pecans, and ½ cup of sugar evenly in the plate.
- In a bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar for 3-4 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in 2 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Add 1 teaspoon of almond or vanilla extract.
- Sift in 1 cup of flour and ½ teaspoon of salt, folding gently until just combined.
- Spread the batter over the cranberry pecan layer, ensuring it covers completely.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serve warm, optionally with ice cream.
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