You know that feeling when the air is crisp and the holiday spirit fills the room? That’s where Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie comes in, a delightful remedy for your holiday gatherings. This beautiful dessert features a sweet, tangy cranberry filling cradled by a crunchy pecan topping, all enveloped in a cozy, cake-like layer. It’s not just a treat; it’s a heartfelt creation that brings joy to your table without the fuss, as it’s both gluten-free and adaptable to your favorite flavors. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got a Christmas dessert that can’t be missed. Ready to impress your friends and family this season? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
Why Is This Pie So Special?
Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit dietary needs, whether you’re looking for a gluten-free version or want to experiment with different nuts.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of tart cranberries and crunchy pecans creates a delightful explosion of taste in every bite.
Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can bring this pie to life without stress.
Perfect for Holiday Gatherings: This dessert is the showstopper at any festive celebration, instantly wowing guests with its unique flavor.
Serve Warm for Maximum Enjoyment: Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, enhancing every experience.
If you’re a fan of delightful holiday desserts, you’ll also love our Pumpkin Pie Tacos and Salted Honey Pie for more festive options!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
• Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Use fresh for the best flavor, but frozen cranberries work perfectly too; just toss them in while still frozen.
• Granulated Sugar – Adjust sweetness according to your taste; this balances the tartness of the cranberries.
• Pecans or Almonds – Choose your favorite nut for a delightful crunch or omit for a nut-free version.
For the Batter
• Unsalted Butter – Make sure to soften it for easy mixing, as it contributes to the pie’s rich texture.
• Eggs – These add necessary structure, so beat until fluffy for that perfect lift.
• Almond or Vanilla Extract – Either extract enhances flavor beautifully; choose based on your preference for a warm, aromatic touch.
• All-Purpose Flour – This serves as the binding agent; for a gluten-free option, swap with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Salt – Just a pinch helps balance the flavors and enhance sweetness.
Enjoy creating your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie with these fabulous ingredients – a delightful twist awaits you this holiday season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin your culinary adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C). While the oven warms, generously butter a 9-inch pie plate to ensure your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie releases smoothly after baking. Once prepared, place fresh or frozen cranberries evenly in the bottom of the pie plate, then sprinkle them with ½ cup of granulated sugar and any chopped pecans you wish to use.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add softened unsalted butter along with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. The goal is to achieve a light texture; you’ll know you’re ready when the mixture is pale and fluffy.
Step 3: Incorporate Flavor and Eggs
Next, add your choice of almond or vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, blending it in. Then, introduce the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is incorporated fully before adding the next. Use your mixer on medium speed until the batter is fluffy and well-combined, which should take about 1-2 minutes for the perfect airy texture.
Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add in the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Mix just until combined, taking care not to over-mix; the batter should be sticky yet smooth. It’s essential to have this base ready before spreading it over the cranberries to create a delightful layer in your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
Step 5: Spread the Batter
Carefully spread the sticky batter evenly over the cranberries and pecans in the pie plate using a spatula. Make sure to cover the filling entirely, creating a nice, even layer. This step is crucial as it will form the cake-like structure on top of the tart cranberries, enveloping them beautifully during the baking process.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Look for a golden brown top to indicate that your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is ready to shine on your holiday table.
Step 7: Cooling and Serving
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This waiting time helps the layers settle. Serve warm, and for an indulgent treat, pair each slice with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped topping to elevate your festive dessert experience!
How to Store and Freeze Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Room Temperature: Store your pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, refrigerate the pie for up to 5 days, tightly covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Nana’s delicious cranberry pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat in the oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 15 minutes for a warm, comforting treat!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this pie perfect for those avoiding gluten.
- Nut-Free: Skip the nuts entirely for a safe, nut-free version that’s still delicious and satisfying.
- Walnuts: Swap pecans for walnuts for a different nutty flavor that complements the cranberries beautifully.
- Flavor Twist: Experiment with different extracts—hazelnut or coconut can add exciting new dimensions to this classic dish.
- Sweetness Variation: Adjust the sugar level based on taste, or substitute with maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
- Extra Tartness: Add more cranberries or mix in some tart cherries for an even zestier flavor profile.
- Coconut Topping: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top before baking for a lovely tropical touch that contrasts well with the tart cranberries.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve this pie alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with our Pumpkin Pie Tacos for a delightful dessert trio that will impress your guests.
With all these options, your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie will feel unique and tailored to your holiday celebrations!
Expert Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
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Cranberry Selection: Choose fresh cranberries for a vibrant flavor; if frozen, don’t thaw before baking to preserve texture.
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Baking Magic: Avoid overbaking! Start checking for doneness 5 minutes before the timer goes off for that perfect moist texture.
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Nutty Goodness: Toast pecans or almonds before adding them to enhance their flavor. Adjust the nut quantity based on personal preference to make your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie uniquely yours.
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Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts for fun twists. For instance, a splash of hazelnut or coconut extract can add a lovely aroma.
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Serving Suggestion: For the ultimate treat, serve your pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It creates a heavenly contrast with the tart cranberries and crunchy pecans.
Make Ahead Options
These Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to simplify your holiday baking! You can prepare the pie filling with fresh or frozen cranberries and pecans up to 24 hours in advance; just cover and refrigerate it until ready to bake. The batter can also be mixed a day ahead; simply keep it sealed in an airtight container. Ensure you give it a quick stir before spreading it over the cranberries when you’re ready to bake. This ensures a delightful dish that’s just as delicious as when made fresh, saving you precious time during the bustling holiday season. Enjoy your quality family time while impressing guests with your convenient culinary skills!
What to Serve with Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Indulging in a slice of this festive pie sets the stage for creating a memorable holiday meal experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich, buttery texture adds a comforting contrast to the tartness of the pie, perfect for a cozy meal together.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: With a hint of caramelization, these earthy greens offer a delightful crunch that balances the pie’s cake-like softness.
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Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, aromatic drink brings a cheerful holiday spirit, enhancing the pie’s festive flavors with every sip.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy sweetness of the ice cream complements the pie’s tartness beautifully, creating a delightful dessert experience.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced warmth offers a festive touch that echoes holiday cheer, making a fun, flavorful dessert duo alongside the pie.
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Chocolate Ganache Tart: For an elegant finish, this rich dessert creates a layered taste experience, perfect for impressing holiday guests.
Embrace these pairings to elevate your holiday celebration and delight your loved ones around the table!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs
What kind of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely go for fresh cranberries when possible, as they provide the best flavor and texture. However, if you’re short on time or can’t find fresh ones, frozen cranberries work just fine—simply toss them in frozen without thawing for the same delightful result.
How long can I store leftover pie?
You can keep your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, which is perfect if you plan to enjoy it soon. If you want to savor it later, transfer it to the refrigerator where it’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze this pie?
Yes, you can! Wrap your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (176°C) for around 15 minutes to warm it back up beautifully.
What should I do if my pie is too dry?
If you find your pie turns out a bit dry, it may be due to overbaking. Remember, keep an eye on it; the perfect texture is moist. If you catch it in time, you can also serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped topping to add moisture and flavor to each slice!
Are there any allergy considerations?
If you’re accommodating allergies, always double-check your ingredients. This pie contains eggs and nuts. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts and possibly add an extra sprinkle of sugar on top for a little crunch. If you’re preparing for someone with gluten intolerance, ensure to use a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I customize the flavors?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with different extracts; for example, try replacing the almond extract with hazelnut or coconut. You can also adjust the type and quantity of nuts based on your family’s preferences, making each Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie uniquely yours!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and butter a 9-inch pie plate. Place cranberries in the bottom of the pie plate, sprinkle with ½ cup of granulated sugar, and add chopped pecans.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes).
- Add almond or vanilla extract to the mixture, then incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing until fluffy (1-2 minutes).
- Slowly add in all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt, mixing just until combined.
- Spread the batter evenly over the cranberries and pecans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the pie to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving warm, ideally with vanilla ice cream.
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