As the crisp air of autumn settles in, the scent of warmth and nostalgia fills my kitchen, beckoning me to revisit a cherished family recipe: Apple Cranberry Pie. This delightful treat harmoniously combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of baking apples, all cozily wrapped in a flaky, golden lattice crust. What I adore most about this Apple Cranberry Pie Recipe is how it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to savor the moments with your loved ones rather than stress over dessert in the kitchen. It’s a seasonal showstopper, perfect for holiday gatherings, where each slice offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Are you ready to impress your guests with this stunning pie that tastes as lovely as it looks?
Why is this pie a must-try?
Flavor Fusion: The perfect blend of sweet apples and tart cranberries creates a symphony of taste that will leave your taste buds singing.
Stress-Free Baking: You can prepare this pie ahead of time, making it a lifesaver for busy holiday schedules, so you can enjoy precious moments with loved ones.
Irresistible Appearance: The golden lattice crust not only looks stunning but also adds a delightful texture that complements the juicy filling.
Seasonal Delight: This Apple Cranberry Pie embodies the essence of fall, making it a warm and inviting addition to your holiday table, just like a comforting bowl of Chef’s special Cheesy Hamburger Soup.
Versatile Serving: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or dollop on a generous spoonful of whipped cream for that extra indulgence! Try it out and savor the flavor!
Apple Cranberry Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
• Pie Dough – Essential for a flaky crust; can be made 3 days in advance or substituted with store-bought if time is tight.
For the Filling
• Apples – Use 6 medium baking apples (about 3 lbs), like Granny Smith or Pink Lady, for a blend of sweetness and structure.
• Cranberries – 1.5 cups of fresh or frozen cranberries provide necessary tartness; chop for better distribution if preferred.
• Sugar – 1 cup of granulated sugar sweetens the filling; consider coconut or maple sugar for a refined sugar-free option.
• Orange Zest – 1 tablespoon brightens the filling, lending a hint of citrus freshness.
• Orange Juice – 2 tablespoons enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness.
• Cornstarch – 2.5 tablespoons thicken the filling for a perfect texture.
• Cinnamon – 2 teaspoons add a warm, aromatic essence that elevates the dish.
For the Glaze
• Egg – 1 egg yolk mixed with water creates a glossy egg wash for a beautiful golden crust.
• Butter – A couple of tablespoons cubed and dotted on the filling enrich the flavors and create a delightful experience in your Apple Cranberry Pie.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cranberry Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Pie Crust
Start by rolling out your pie dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Place the rolled crust into a 9-inch pie plate, gently pressing it into the edges without stretching. Trim any excess dough, leaving about an inch overhang. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the filling, ensuring a flaky texture.
Step 2: Make Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples and fresh or frozen cranberries. Add the granulated sugar, orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch, mixing thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Allow the filling to sit for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together while you preheat your oven to 400°F.
Step 3: Assemble Pie
Take your chilled pie crust from the refrigerator and pour the apple-cranberry mixture into the bottom crust. Roll out a second piece of pie dough and cut it into strips for the lattice top. Weave the strips over the filling, alternating them to create a beautiful pattern. Crimp the edges of the crust together, sealing in the delicious filling, and brush the top with the egg wash for a lovely golden finish.
Step 4: Bake
Place your assembled Apple Cranberry Pie on a foil-lined baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake it in the preheated oven at 400°F for the first 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for 40-50 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly filling and a golden crust, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.
Step 5: Cool
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack at room temperature for at least 3 hours. This cooling time allows the filling to set up properly, making it easier to slice. The aroma of your freshly baked Apple Cranberry Pie will fill the kitchen, creating sweet anticipation for your upcoming gathering.
Make Ahead Options
This Apple Cranberry Pie is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its flakiness. The filling can also be made up to 24 hours ahead—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the apples from browning. When you’re ready to serve, assemble your pie with a lattice top, brush with the egg wash, and bake as instructed. You’ll enjoy a stress-free dessert that’s just as delicious as if made fresh that day!
Expert Tips for Apple Cranberry Pie
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Chill for Shape: Chilling the assembled pie for 20 minutes before baking helps it maintain its shape, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
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Cold Ingredients Matter: Using cold butter and water in your pie dough will yield a flakier crust—overworking the dough can lead to a tough texture.
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Lattice Practice: If you’re unfamiliar with weaving a lattice crust, practice on a flat surface first to boost your confidence before assembly.
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Avoid Soggy Bottoms: To prevent a soggy crust, sprinkle a thin layer of cornstarch on the bottom pie crust before adding the filling. This absorbs excess moisture.
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Time for Cooling: Allowing your Apple Cranberry Pie to cool for at least 3 hours after baking is crucial; it helps the filling set for neat slices.
Apple Cranberry Pie Recipe Variations
Customize this delightful pie to your liking and experience an even richer taste journey with every slice!
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Crumble Topping: Replace the lattice top with a crunchy streusel, combining oats, brown sugar, and butter for added texture.
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Apple Variety Swap: Experiment with different apple types like Honeycrisp or Fuji for varying sweetness and flavor profiles, creating a unique pie every time.
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Nutty Addition: Mix in walnuts or pecans with the filling for an unexpected crunch that beautifully complements the soft fruit.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger alongside cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth and excitement in every bite.
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Maple Sweetness: Substitute granulated sugar with pure maple syrup for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness that elevates the filling’s flavor.
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Cranberry Twist: Incorporate dried cherries or blueberries along with the cranberries to introduce another delightful fruit dimension in your pie. They resonate beautifully with the tartness.
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Vegan Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter for the crust and choose flaxseed or a chia egg as a substitute for egg wash, making this pie plant-based.
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Zesty Surprise: Add some finely grated lemon zest to the filling for an invigorating citrus note that perfectly balances the sweet and tart flavors!
Pondering more options? Check out my spin on cozy comfort foods like Cheesy Hamburger Soup or brighten your day with a slice of Apple Crisp Cinnamon Roll Casserole. Each twist adds joy and flavor to your holiday baking!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cranberry Pie
Room Temperature: Store leftover pie covered at room temperature for 1-2 days; this keeps the crust crisp and delicious.
Fridge: If you need longer storage, refrigerate the pie for up to one week, but be aware that the crust might soften slightly.
Freezer: For optimal freshness, freeze the pie wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To bring back that warm, inviting texture, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Enjoy your Apple Cranberry Pie!
What to Serve with Apple Cranberry Pie
Nothing says cozy gathering like a selection of side dishes and treats that elevate the delightful experience of sharing a homemade dessert.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts into the warm pie, creating an indulgent balance of hot and cold textures.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness, accentuating the pie’s sweetness while contributing a lovely texture with each bite.
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Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: These fluffy treats dusted in cinnamon sugar echo the pie’s spices, making them a playful yet complementary pairing with every slice.
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Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory, these tender carrots bring a colorful contrast to the table and enhance the meal’s cozy warmth.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with tart apples and cranberries provides a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the soft pie filling.
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Sparkling Cider: A glass of sparkling cider offers a festive touch, its fizz brightening the palate between bites of pie while enhancing the seasonal theme.
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Pecan Pie Bars: Keep the dessert table delightful with these rich bars, sharing nutty caramel flavors that pair seamlessly with the fruits in the pie.
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Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses, particularly sharp cheddar or creamy brie, creates an intriguing flavor dynamic, balancing the sweetness with savory notes.
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Hot Apple Cider: Served warm with spices, this drink wraps you in autumn comfort, echoing the apple flavors while making every gathering feel like a hug.
Apple Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for this pie?
For your Apple Cranberry Pie, I recommend using medium baking apples like Granny Smith or Pink Lady. These varieties provide the perfect balance of sweetness and structure to hold up well during baking, enhancing the overall flavor of the pie.
How should I store leftover Apple Cranberry Pie?
Absolutely! You can store leftover pie covered at room temperature for about 1 to 2 days to maintain its delightful crispness. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to one week, although the crust may become softer. Just remember to cover it well to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze the Apple Cranberry Pie for later use?
Yes, you can! To freeze your pie, wrap it firmly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, which helps protect it from freezer burn. It can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rewarming it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my pie crust becomes tough?
No worries! If your pie crust turns out tough, it may have been overworked or made with warm ingredients. Next time, start with cold butter and water, and handle the dough gently. Also, chilling the crust before baking can help keep it tender and flaky.
Are there any dietary considerations for the Apple Cranberry Pie?
Sure thing! If you’re concerned about gluten, you can use a gluten-free pie crust instead. For those with sugar restrictions, using coconut or maple sugar as a substitute can minimize refined sugar intake while still providing sweetness. Just be sure to check your specific dietary needs with any ingredient changes.
How long should I let my pie cool before serving?
Letting your Apple Cranberry Pie cool for at least 3 hours is essential. This cooling time allows the filling to set properly, so when you slice it, the filling stays intact and doesn’t run out. Plus, the tantalizing aroma will create sweet anticipation for your gathering!
Decadent Apple Cranberry Pie Recipe for Cozy Holiday Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by rolling out your pie dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Place the rolled crust into a 9-inch pie plate, gently pressing it into the edges without stretching. Trim any excess dough, leaving about an inch overhang. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples and fresh or frozen cranberries. Add the granulated sugar, orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch, mixing thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Allow the filling to sit for about 10 minutes while you preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Take your chilled pie crust from the refrigerator and pour the apple-cranberry mixture into the bottom crust. Roll out a second piece of pie dough and cut it into strips for the lattice top. Weave the strips over the filling, alternating them to create a beautiful pattern. Crimp the edges of the crust together, sealing in the filling, and brush the top with the egg wash for a lovely golden finish.
- Place your assembled Apple Cranberry Pie on a foil-lined baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake it in the preheated oven at 400°F for the first 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for 40-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't over-brown.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack at room temperature for at least 3 hours. This cooling time allows the filling to set up properly, making it easier to slice.