**Meta Title**: Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie – A Festive Delight
**Meta Description**: Discover the joys of Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie! This comforting sweet treat combines fruity flavors, perfect for your festive celebrations.
You know that magical feeling when the air turns crisp and holiday lights begin to twinkle? It’s the perfect season to bake a pie that captures that essence—a pie that’s fruity, comforting, and downright festive. Just imagine the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through your kitchen, blending harmoniously with the sweet scent of apples and the tart zing of cranberries. The versatility of this Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie makes it not just a dessert but a centerpiece for your holiday gatherings.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to craft a stunning pie that will impress your friends and family, from making the buttery crust from scratch to perfectly seasoning the filling. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into the festive world of Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie!
What is Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie?
Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie is a delightful dessert that marries the sweetness of **fresh apples** with the tartness of **cranberries**, resulting in a wonderfully balanced filling. The pie originates from the classic American dessert tradition, where seasonal ingredients shine. Though apple pie is a beloved staple, adding cranberries not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds vibrant color, making it visually appealing.
Each slice reveals a rich, juicy filling nestled in a flaky, golden-brown crust, with an aesthetic topped by crunchy crumb topping or elegant lattice work. The flavors dance together—in each bite, you experience the sweet, soft apples melding beautifully with the slightly tart cranberries, going hand in hand with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, evoking the coziness of the holiday season.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie
There are countless reasons to adore this pie. First and foremost, it’s a true holiday comfort food—the kind that warms your heart and satisfies a sweet tooth. The fusion of flavors—from the sweet and fragrant apples to the sharp tang of cranberries—creates a flavor explosion that feels festive in every bite. This recipe is also incredibly simple, making it accessible for both seasoned bakers and those just beginning to explore baking.
Another bonus? It’s perfect for meal prep or gatherings! You can prepare it ahead of time and bake just before your guests arrive, filling your home with the comforting scent of baked goods. Better yet, the pie acts as a wonderful canvas for leftover pie crust, affording you the opportunity to get creative by adding additional spices or toppings.
Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply celebrating the season’s first snow, this pie is bound to steal the show. You’ll want to make it year after year—it’s sure to become a beloved family tradition!
Ingredients You’ll Need
1. **Flour** – 2 1/2 cups
The backbone of your pie crust; use all-purpose flour for optimal results. For a gluten-free version, consider substituting with almond or gluten-free flour.
2. **Butter** – 1 cup, cold and diced
Butter adds essential richness to your crust. Ensure it’s cold for a flaky texture. If you’d like a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter.
3. **Granulated Sugar** – 1/2 cup
This sweetener brings a gentle sweetness to your pie filling. Feel free to substitute with brown sugar for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
4. **Brown Sugar** – 1/2 cup
Adds moisture and a hint of molasses flavor that truly enriches the filling. It works exceptionally well with fruits!
5. **Cranberries** – 2 cups, fresh or frozen
Their tart nature makes them an essential component of this pie, balancing the sweetness. Use fresh cranberries when available for the best results.
6. **Apples** – 6 cups, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
Choose a mix of tart and sweet apples for complexity. Look for firm apples to hold their shape when baked.
7. **Lemon Juice** – 1 tablespoon
Brightens the flavors of the filling and keeps the apples from browning. Opt for fresh lemon juice for the best taste.
8. **Cornstarch** – 3 tablespoons
This helps thicken the filling as it cooks, ensuring your pie isn’t too runny.
9. **Cinnamon** – 1 teaspoon & Nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon
These spices infuse warmth and depth. For a twist, try adding some cardamom or allspice!
10. **Vanilla Extract** – 1 teaspoon
Its aromatic and sweet notes perfect the flavor of both the apples and cranberries.
11. **Salt** – 1/4 teaspoon
Enhances all the flavors in your pie. Don’t skip this step!
12. **Egg** – 1, beaten (for egg wash)
Creates that beautiful golden glaze on your crust.
How to Make Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie
1. **Prepare the Pie Crust**: In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt, then cut in the cold butter with a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough just holds together. Divide into two balls, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour.
2. **Make the Filling**: In a large bowl, toss together the sliced apples, cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir gently until the fruit is coated evenly. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to meld.
3. **Roll the Dough**: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the dough disks into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it into the bottom and sides, and leaving some overhang.
4. **Add the Filling**: Pour the fruit mixture into the prepared crust, distributing it evenly. Ensure to pile it high, as it will settle as it bakes. For an extra touch, sprinkle the top with some additional cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt.
5. **Prepare the Top Crust**: Roll out the second dough disk into another 12-inch circle. You can either cut it into strips to create a lattice crust or simply place it over the filling. If using a solid top crust, make a few small slits to allow steam to escape.
6. **Seal & Finish the Crust**: Trim any excess crust, fold the edges under, and crimp as desired. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for a gorgeous golden finish. Optional: sprinkle with sugar for added sweetness.
7. **Bake the Pie**: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. You might want to cover the edges with foil during the last 15 minutes to prevent over-browning.
8. **Cool & Serve**: Once done, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least two hours to set the filling before slicing. Serve warm, preferably with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips, Tricks & Variations
1. **Prep Ahead**: You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready!
2. **Flavored Pie Crust**: Add zest from a lemon or orange to the pie crust for a citrusy note that complements the filling beautifully.
3. **Sweeten to Taste**: Adjust the amount of sugar depending on your tart apples and personal preference. Taste-test the filling before sealing it up!
4. **Freeze for Later**: This pie freezes wonderfully! Assemble the entire pie but don’t bake it. Wrap it well and freeze. Bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to your baking time.
5. **Serving St idées**: Try pairing your pie with a warm spiced cider or a festive cocktail like cranberry fizz for an added holiday touch.
What to Serve With Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie
This Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks. For a classic touch, serve it warm with a scoop of **vanilla ice cream** that melts into the pie, adding a creamy contrast to the fruity filling. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon makes for a beautiful serving.
To balance the sweetness, consider serving it alongside a tart **crème fraiche** or even a rich **cheddar cheese** slice—both will enhance the flavor profile deliciously. For a drink, nothing beats a **spiced mulled wine** or homemade **apple cider**, filling the air with seasonal aromas and providing a cozy vibe for your gathering.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie is more than just a treat; it packs in wholesome ingredients that offer health benefits. Apples are a great source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, while cranberries are known for their potential in supporting urinary tract health and being rich in antioxidants. In a typical slice, you can expect approximately 300-400 calories depending on crust thickness and sugar content. For precise nutritional information and health advice, check resources like Healthline and [USDA Nutrition](https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. **Can I substitute the cranberries?**
While cranberries add a unique tartness, you could substitute with cherries or blueberries. Just keep in mind they will alter the flavor, so adjust sugar accordingly!
2. **What’s the best way to store leftover pie?**
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll last about 3-4 days. You can also freeze slices wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.
3. **How do I know when the pie is done?**
Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling juices around the edges. You’ll also want to see the fruit visibly simmering to know it’s fully cooked.
4. **Can I make a vegan version?**
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with vegan butter, and for the egg wash, use a mix of almond milk with a tablespoon of maple syrup. This will still give you that pretty glaze!
5. **Can I use store-bought pie crust?**
Yes, if you’re short on time or just looking for convenience, store-bought crust works beautifully. Just be sure to follow the instructions for the type you choose.
In the end, this Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a warm embrace, an invitation to create memories at the dinner table, and a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of the season. This holiday, let the inviting scents and flavors of this pie bring joy to your home. So why not grab those fresh apples and tart cranberries and bake up some love? If you loved this recipe, leave a comment or tag me on Instagram—I can’t wait to see your beautiful creations!
Now, let’s make the holidays a little brighter with a slice of pie!
