cranberry pie recipe
The Best cranberry pie recipe
What really makes cranberry pie special isn’t just the taste—it’s the way it brings people together. Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy night in with friends, or just a quiet afternoon when I want something hearty and satisfying, this pie is a constant. And let’s be honest, it’s not just a dessert; it’s a little health boost too. Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, which makes them a smart choice for something sweet. The pie itself, with its whole-grain crust or even a simple egg wash, isn’t too heavy, and the natural sweetness of the cranberries means you don’t need as much sugar as you might with other pies. My family and I love that it’s a way to enjoy something delicious without feeling guilty. Plus, it’s a classic that never goes out of style—no matter how many times you make it, it always feels like a treat.
Classic Cranberry Pie
A festive, tangy cranberry pie filled with a spiced cranberry sauce, perfect for holiday gatherings. Rich, sweet, and bursting with seasonal flavor.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 8-10 tbsp ice water
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
👨🍳Directions
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1
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Combine flour and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes. -
2
Roll dough between two sheets of parchment paper to a 12-inch circle. Transfer to a pie dish, crimping edges with a pastry brush or fork. Chill again for 15 minutes. -
3
In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, and spices. Simmer over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until cranberries burst and sauce thickens. -
4
Pour cranberry sauce into the pie crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden. Cool before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Pastry cutter or fork
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing spoon
- Oven
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- Tip: For a lighter crust, use a pre-made pie crust or blend 1 cup flour with 1/2 cup cold butter and 4 tbsp ice water.
- Tip: Add a splash of brandy or rum for a boozy twist.
- Tip: Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Watch Video Of How Classic Cranberry Pie Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Pie
1. What is the best way to prepare cranberry pie filling for a classic homemade cranberry pie?
The best way to prepare cranberry pie filling is to combine 12 oz fresh cranberries (pitted, if needed), 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup light corn syrup, ¼ cup lemon juice (or white vinegar), and 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Stir well and let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes to soften the cranberries. For a smoother texture, you can gently heat the filling in a saucepan over medium-low heat until it thickens slightly (about 5–7 minutes), stirring occasionally.
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2. Can I substitute fresh cranberries with frozen cranberries in my cranberry pie recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries—just make sure they’re thawed and drained well before using. Frozen cranberries may have some ice crystals, so you may need to add 1–2 extra tablespoons of sugar to balance the sweetness. Follow the same preparation steps as with fresh cranberries, letting them sit for at least 30 minutes before baking.
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3. What type of pie crust should I use for a traditional cranberry pie?
For a classic cranberry pie, a butter-based shortcrust pie crust works best. Use 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ tsp salt, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp cold butter (cut into small pieces), and 6–8 tbsp ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Chill the dough for at least 1 hour before rolling and filling to prevent cracking.
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4. Should I add any spices to the cranberry pie filling besides cinnamon?
While cinnamon is traditional, you can enhance the flavor by adding ½ tsp each of allspice, nutmeg, or ginger for warmth. For a tart contrast, a pinch of cloves or cardamom can also work well. If you prefer a lighter flavor, stick with cinnamon and lemon juice for brightness.
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5. How do I prevent my cranberry pie from cracking while baking?
To avoid cracking, ensure your pie crust is properly chilled before rolling and filling. Use ice water when making the dough to keep it pliable. Pre-bake the crust for 10–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to create a firm base. Place the filling in gently, avoiding overfilling, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–55 minutes, covered with foil if needed to prevent a too-brown top. Let it cool completely before serving.
